energy efficient existing homes: lighting

July 30, 2019July 30, 2019

Passive Solar Energy for Homes: Daylighting

Reviewed and revised on 11/15/2013

Natural light can contribute to energy savings inside the home by reducing the need for artificial lighting powered by energy sources. Structures with a long east-west axis and a concentration of windows on the southern exposure receive the maximum benefit from daylight. Windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) glass provide the opportunity for optimum natural lighting while reducing heat gain in the summer and heat loss during the winter months.

Recommendations for the amount of southern windows …

July 30, 2019July 30, 2019

Compact Fluorescent Lighting — CFL

Reviewed and Revised on 11/13/2013

How much can I save by switching to Compact Fluorescent Lamps/Light bulbs?

On an average lighting represents 10-15% of a home’s electricity bill. Switching from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent lamps/lightbulbs (CFLs) is the simplest way to save on this bill.

A CFL bulb uses only 1/4th of the energy used in a incandescent bulb and last 10 times longer. It does cost about $2 or more in comparison to incandescent bulbs however, if …

July 30, 2019July 30, 2019

No to Low Cost Actions to Save Home Energy and Money

Reviewed and Revised 01/03/2014

Simple tips designed to help you save energy in your home with little or no out-of-pocket costs.

Heating

Set thermostats no higher than 68 ºF when people are home.

Lower the thermostat when you sleep or not at home. Lowering the thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for 8 hrs can help you save 5-15% annually on your heating bill. Energy.gov website states that if the setback period is 8 hrs or longer than

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