ENERGY STAR light fixtures
Interested in a brighter future? Make the switch to ENERGY STAR light fixtures today. You'll be glad you did.
Benefits of ENERGY STAR light fixtures
- Use up to two-thirds less energy than conventional fixtures
- Come with a two-year warranty (double the industry standard)
- Provide more even and efficient light distribution
- Are designed to work with bulbs that last approximately 10,000 hours
- Come in thousands of shapes and sizes for every room in your home
Many outdoor fixtures come with daylight shut-off or motion sensors for added savings.
Most ENERGY STAR qualified fixtures use the GU-24 light bulb technology. The GU-24 light bulb does not have the usual screw base, but instead has two bayonets/prongs protruding from the base. These insert into matching holes in the fixture's socket, and twist to lock into place. Twist and pull, and the bulbs come right out of the socket.
The new GU-24 socket prevents substituting replacement lamps that are not energy efficient, guaranteeing you energy savings every time you turn the lights on.
Outdoor fixtures
When using a compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) outdoors, it should be placed in a fixture with a cover. Covered fixtures will protect the CFL from rain, snow and hail. Some CFLs are designed to work in temperatures as low as -30C. When temperatures drop below this point, the life of the bulb may be affected. It may also take longer for the bulb to reach full brightness. Check the package for the "minimum operating temperature".
Motion sensor light fixtures
Motion and light sensors can assist in reducing power use. However, not all light sensors work well with CFLs. If a CFL bulb is not available to work for a particular fixture, consider installing a motion sensor with an incandescent bulb in that location to reduce electricity use and save money.
By putting a motion sensor on an outside light and changing to a CFL, you could save $130 for every 150-watt bulb in your motion sensor.
Timers used on light fixtures
Timers can assist in reducing power use. However, CFLs can be used with mechanical timers only. Digital timers may interfere with electronics in the bulb.
Dimmer switches
Install dimmer switches in your home for additional savings. The more you turn your dimmer switch down, the more you'll save.
