In summer, we expect our homes to be nice and cool—a refreshing retreat from the hot temperatures outside. You may be fussing over your air conditioning system and doing your best to keep windows closed, but an unexpected source of extra heat in your home is coming from your light fixtures. While old-fashioned incandescent light bulbs emit light, they also release a lot of wasted heat along with it. All this additional heat can actually cause your AC unit to work harder to cool your home, which means you’ll be looking at higher energy costs and an uncomfortable environment. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that your interior lights don’t raise the temperature in your home.
Type of Bulb: The Led Advantage
One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the heat output of your indoor lights is to replace them with cooler light bulbs, such as LEDs. LEDs generate far less heat compared to incandescent bulbs. This way, you get the illumination you desire without the increased heat. Consider that an incandescent bulb that has been on for a while is hot to the touch, and it can be so hot that you could actually get your hands burned. However, an LED bulb operating for the same length of time will be relatively cool. Simply swapping your old incandescent bulbs for LED ones throughout your house will make a noticeable difference in reducing the amount of heat your lights contribute to your home during the summer. This quick switch can help your rooms feel cooler and help your AC work more efficiently.
Natural Light Wins: Optimizing Natural Lighting
Another way to combat overheating from indoor lighting is to make the most of daylight. Summer days are known to be long and bright, so the natural light that comes through your windows can illuminate rooms without relying on electric lighting. Try positioning your furniture so you can read or work comfortably near windows. If you have rooms that get darker, consider using sheer curtains or blinds that will let light filter through while still offering some privacy. Strategically using natural light reduces your need for artificial lighting during the day (and the heat that those lights produce). It’s an easy and inexpensive way to keep your home brighter and cooler during the summer.
Smart Lighting Habits: How To Turn Off Unused Lights
It’s pretty clear advice, but creating smart lighting habits can also help avoid generating excess heat from indoor lights. To save energy, try turning off the lights in empty rooms and remind others in your home to do the same.
If you need to upgrade your lighting fixtures to ones that produce less heat, consult a professional. They can make recommendations that fit your preferences and those of your family. For help with the lighting in your Boise, ID home, call Sublime Electric.
