The Time To Upgrade Lights

By Tom Sanderrs

Everyone who wants to save money and reduce energy consumption should inspect their home since many houses have old light fixtures which are in dire need of updating. However, many ask about when the best time to upgrade lights is. Actually, lighting needs to be brought up to date whenever something new is out and even if you have a newer home or one that meets the present day building code standards, you should still examine everything.

If you are someone who is using incandescent lighting in your home then you should make an effort to replace all lighting with compact fluorescent light bulbs since they are only wasting money. With incandescent bulbs the energy is mostly heat, not light, which is why they are hot to the touch.

The CFL bulbs produce and emit the same light, but use less in the way of watts to do so than a regular incandescent bulb would. While you are in the process of replacing bulbs, it is also important to check out the fixture too. If it is old, cracked or make suspicious sounds when you switch it on, then the entire fixture should be replaced since it is just wasting you money and are also potentially dangerous. A fixture that makes sounds might have a short and that can eventually lead to a fire.

All fluorescent lights need a ballast to operate. The ballast alters the electrical current and makes the gas activate inside the tube. In the old ballasts, which were of a magnetic mechanism, you would get a buzz, and possible flickering of the bulbs. This old system was not only noisy, but are also way less efficient, because of the moving parts. New CFL have electronic ballasts built inn eliminating buzz and wavering lights.

If you still have and are using incandescent lighting or old version ballast fluorescent you might find it helpful to call in a professional to assess your lighting and they can tell you what you need. Also, in many areas there are energy assistance agencies that will pay for part of the cost of replacement. You can find out more information by checking with local agencies.

The main question asked is when lights need to be upgraded and quite simply, they should be replaced whenever a new technology is developed and made available. Even if you cannot afford things right away, it is best to stay informed on all the latest developments and know the advantages.

Although it can cost a bit to replace the old bulbs with the new CFL ones you will surely make it up on the savings you will enjoy by replacing the old ones. You don't have to do them all at once but can start out a few at a time.

You can find out more information on when and how to upgrade your lighting through many sources, both online and in your community. If you are not familiar with all these new technologies, you should really educate yourself. Get familiar with the terminology, study up on the different kinds of lights available, CFL's, and even LED lights are available. One thing that is important for your safety, if any of your fixtures are acting like there is something wrong, replace them immediately, or you may have a fire on your hands. - 32406

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