Use Incandescent Bulbs More Efficiently
There are some things you can do to limit the energy wasted with incandescent bulbs:
(i) Dim the lights where you can.
(ii) It takes more energy to run two small wattage bulbs than one bulb with a higher wattage, so use one higher-wattage bulb instead of several smaller ones in a lamp (but never put in a bulb with a wattage higher than the maximum stated on the fixture).
(iii) On the other hand, there may be places, like hallways, where you don't need as much light as you are using. So replace the 100-watt bulb you're using with a 75-watt bulb.
(iv) Look for "Supersaver," "Watt Miser," or "Econo-Watt" bulbs, which use 5-13% less energy.
(v) Put reflector bulbs in for specific work areas that need strong illumination, like a sink or desk.
(vi) Dust your lamps and light bulbs. I'm serious. Dust absorbs light you could be using.
(vi) Remember that light-colored walls reflect more light and so need less lamps. Is it time to paint?
Don't bother with "energy-saver" buttons. They may reduce energy use a little, but they really cut down on the light you get and negatively impact the efficiency of the bulb. Also, long-life and rough-service bulbs are less efficient so they won't save energy.
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