Energy Efficient Lighting Options For Your Bathroom

One thing you might not think of often enough is the lighting for your bathroom. That is until you realize you either have too much or not enough. There are many options when it comes to lighting for your bathroom and choosing an energy efficient option is the best choice. Not only does it help reduce your electricity bills, but it also has environmental benefits. Energy efficient lighting can come in the form of LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs, compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), or halogen incandescent bulbs.

LED

LED bulbs are the most energy efficient option available. They use up to approximately 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last up to 25 times longer. LED bulbs also emit less heat, which can help keep your bathroom cooler and reduce the load on your air conditioning system. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and can be dimmed for mood lighting. This type of lighting can be used in ceiling lights, standalone fixtures, and vanities.

CFL

CFLs are also energy efficient and use up to about 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They can last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs, but they contain small amounts of mercury and need to be recycled properly. It’s interesting to note that CFLs create a warm light in your bathroom that will reflect favorably on your skin appearance. It would be good to double check any makeup application in natural light before heading out, though.

Halogen

If you are looking for a bulb that is closer to natural daylight, then halogen lighting might be for you. Halogen incandescent bulbs are slightly more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, but they still use more energy than LED or CFL bulbs. An issue with these bulbs is how hot they become with use and have the ability to explode when handled. This does not happen all the time, but a process begins to happen when the oils from your fingers are transferred to the bulb. The bulb has high pressure gas inside and the oils from your fingers can affect the glass of the bulb and potentially shatter. It’s important to research these bulbs if you want to use them.

Using energy efficient lighting in your bathroom is a wise choice. LED bulbs are the most energy efficient option, but CFLs and halogen incandescent bulbs are also good options. Remember to consider the color temperature of your bulbs and use dimmer switches and timers to further reduce your energy consumption.