How to Make Chandeliers More Energy Efficient

Post provided by Home and Garden Co.

Many homeowners are surprised that chandeliers can be part of an energy efficient home.  Though chandeliers use multiple bulbs to light a room, these bulbs may be a lower wattage that those used in other light fixtures.  Whether you already own a chandelier and are looking for ways to reduce your energy consumption, or you are hoping to redecorate your home in a more eco-friendly way, chandeliers can be a central part of your plan.

No matter what kind of light fixture you are using, installing dimmer switches can have a huge impact on energy consumption.  These switches provide more options than simply choosing between on and off.  Instead, occupants of a room can determine exactly how much light they need at any given time.  When bulbs are dimly lit, they use far less energy than that would when turned on completely.  In addition to the energy benefits of dimmer switches, they also help create the effect of mood lighting without the need for expensive track lights or complicated set-ups.

Almost every chandelier model allows users to select from a number of different bulbs that will fit into the light fixtures.  Instead of sticking to the bulbs that you have been using in the past, find LED or other energy efficient bulbs that will fit into your existing chandeliers.  While these lights are generally more expensive than filament bulbs, the savings on utility bills means that they will pay for themselves over the life of the bulb.  Not only that, but these bulbs are also designed to last far longer than filament counterparts, so they will need to be replaced far less often.

Most homeowners will find that they can make their homes far more energy efficient without having to make too many drastic changes.  By changing the bulbs in your chandeliers, installing dimmer switches, and just making sure to turn off the lights when you leave a room, anyone can see a large reduction in their utility bill.