Many people try to save energy and money at the same time by using the most efficient ways they know possible. Lighting is usually one of the things that we look into in order to save more on our electric bills. Today, many energy saving light bulbs have been manufactured in response to the overwhelming demand from many people who wish to keep the environment free of wasted energy and their by products that contributes to the depreciation and pollution of our natural resources.
Energy saving light bulbs now often use up to 80% or more less electric power than the usual standard light bulb found in many homes. Surprisingly, the quality of light they produce is comparable. In recent years, inefficient light bulbs are being phased out by government mandates, and measures have already been taken to limit the use of standard incandescent light bulbs as well. Why? Because 90% or more of their energy consumption is turned into heat, not light, so only 10% or less of their energy output translates into light. The campaign to use better energy saving lamp options has become much stronger with the continuous improvements made in more energy efficient CFL and LED lamps that can replace incandescent bulbs. Federal laws have produced guidelines on light bulb standards in order to support the need to use more energy-efficient lighting.
Today, technology has enabled manufacturers to produce a wide variety of energy saving bulbs that can be used in homes and businesses. Depending on how many light bulbs you have, and how long they burn, you can significantly reduce your energy costs with bulbs that can last ten to fifty times longer than your current light bulbs. The most common energy savers are the energy-efficient IRhalogen light bulbs, compact fluorescents, and light emitting diode or LED lights. They fit in most ordinary light fixtures found at home and have great models that are designed to be used in special lighting applications.
In order to start making the switch to energy saving bulbs today, you may start with one bulb first. There are many options when it comes to these bulbs, so test one and see if it produces the kind of light you wish to have in that area. Warm white colors usually suit any room or you can choose one that has a color temperature ranging from 2700 to 6500 kelvin. Second, choose an energy saving bulb that uses at least one-quarter less in wattage than does the incandescent bulb you want to replace. Third, if you have a dimmer, check if it is dimmable and compatible with your dimmer-controlled fixtures.
Many energy saving bulbs today are made to fit where your standard incandescent lamps are. Check the size carefully before purchasing one. Finally, look for the Energy Star stamp on the label. Energy Star is the government’s recognized designation that the product you are about to buy is among the top 20% of all energy-efficient products in its classification.
Cornelius Vanderkolk having come to Hawaii over 10 years ago, jumped into the lighting industry for his initial career as a consultant in calculating ROI and providing energy efficient lighting solutions servicing home owners, businesses, and commercial properties. In Hawaii where Kwh rate is some of the highest in the nation, he has been instrumental in introducing leading edge LED light bulbssolutions into the markets as they became available and first viable. With the fast evolving developments in LED lighting, he is never short of sharing the fast changing technologies amongst client, colleagues, friends and family and presenting something new that the industry has developed.
Outside his professional interests, he is active in a variety of civic and cultural organizations including Habitat for Humanity, church affiliate welfare programs, and participating in the Hawaii Film Festival. When it comes to outdoor actives, one can often find him climbing trails, swimming, and posting adventures and scenery photos on Facebook.
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