When most people think about reducing their electric bill, they focus on turning things off. While that helps, there’s a smarter, longer-term solution that can make a big impact – upgrading your lighting system.
At Gowdy Electric, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses across the region save money and improve comfort just by switching to smarter lighting. Here’s how it works- and why it matters.
Why Lighting Matters More Than You Think
Lighting typically makes up 10% to 20% of your home’s electricity use, and even more for commercial properties. Outdated bulbs and inefficient fixtures are often the hidden culprits behind higher utility bills.
Upgrading isn’t just about saving money- it’s about creating the right atmosphere, improving safety, and reducing maintenance over time.
Step 1: Switch to LED Lighting
This is the simplest- and most effective- step you can take. LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
Quick Comparison:
| Bulb Type | Lifespan | Energy Use |
|---|---|---|
| Incandescent | ~1,000 hours | High |
| CFL | ~8,000 hours | Medium |
| LED | 15,000–50,000 hrs | Low |
Bonus: LEDs come in various color temperatures and dimming options, so you don’t have to sacrifice ambiance for savings.
Step 2: Install Dimmers and Timers
Why light a room fully if you only need a soft glow? Dimmers let you control brightness, extend bulb life, and use less power.
Timers and motion sensors are also great for outdoor lighting, bathrooms, or utility spaces- so lights turn off automatically when not in use.
At Gowdy Electric, we install smart switches and programmable controls that give you full flexibility while keeping your energy use in check.
Step 3: Upgrade Outdated Fixtures
Older light fixtures weren’t designed with energy efficiency in mind. Many waste electricity or don’t provide optimal light output, meaning you use more bulbs than necessary.
Our electricians can recommend and install modern, energy-efficient fixtures that improve visibility and use fewer watts to do it.
Step 4: Consider Smart Lighting Systems
If you’re into home automation or just want more control, smart lighting is the way to go. Systems like Lutron, Leviton, and even Wi-Fi-controlled LED bulbs let you:
-
Set schedules
-
Control lights from your phone
-
Adjust brightness and color
-
Integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit
It’s convenience, security, and efficiency rolled into one.
Step 5: Don’t Forget Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting often runs longer hours and is more exposed to the elements. Upgrading to LED floodlights, pathway lighting, or motion-activated fixtures can drastically reduce your power usage- and improve safety.
Need help navigating landscape lighting codes or finding weatherproof options? We’ve got you covered.
Why Choose Gowdy Electric?
We’re not just here to fix electrical issues- we help you improve how your home or business functions. With years of experience in energy-efficient upgrades, Gowdy Electric can assess your current system and guide you through a smart, cost-effective lighting transformation.
Ready to Lighten the Load?
Let’s take a fresh look at your lighting setup and find ways to save. Contact Gowdy Electric today for a consultation, and we’ll help you create a plan that’s both energy smart and budget friendly.