How to Save on Recessed Lighting Costs With Eco-Friendly Options

Recessed lighting can significantly increase the appeal and functionality of any room. However, the costs associated with installing and operating recessed lights can quickly add up. By choosing energy-efficient, eco-friendly recessed lighting options, you can reduce your long-term costs while minimizing your environmental impact. Here's how I go about finding affordable, sustainable recessed lighting solutions for my home.

Research Efficient Recessed Lighting Fixtures

The first step is researching recessed light fixtures that provide bright, quality illumination while using the least amount of electricity. There are now LED and CFL recessed lights that use a fraction of the energy of traditional incandescent bulbs. I compare the wattages and lumen outputs of different models to find the most energy efficient options. ENERGY STAR certification is a good indicator of an energy-efficient recessed light.

I also make sure to check the CRI rating, which measures how accurately colors are displayed under the light. An 80+ CRI is ideal for most residential applications. Finally, I read reviews from other consumers to gauge real-world performance and longevity of energy-efficient recessed lighting options. Fixtures made by reputable manufacturers like Philips, GE, and EcoSmart tend to have better ratings.

Take Advantage of Utility Rebates and Tax Incentives

Many utility companies and state/federal governments now offer rebates and tax credits to encourage the use of ENERGY STAR certified LED and CFL recessed lighting. I explore available incentives in my area and calculate potential savings. For example, my local utility offers a $10 rebate per ENERGY STAR recessed light fixture, which would significantly reduce upfront costs on a larger lighting project. The ENERGY STAR website provides a full listing of current rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient lighting.

Install Lighting Controls

Recessed lighting on dimmers, timers, motion sensors, and daylight sensors can also help minimize energy usage and costs. I install dimmable LED recessed lights in frequently used spaces like kitchens and living rooms. Adding a dimmer allows flexible light adjustment from full brightness to a more ambient glow. For areas like closets and hallways, motion sensor lights activate illumination only when needed. Likewise, daylight sensor lights automatically adjust output based on the level of natural light coming into the room. Smart lighting controls work alongside efficient fixtures to optimize energy savings.

Choose Eco-Friendly Construction Materials

I also opt for sustainably sourced recessed housings made of recycled metals and plastics. Many manufacturers now offer recessed lighting cans and trim kits constructed from recycled content. This reduces environmental impacts from material sourcing and production. I look for housings listed as UL Greenguard or EPP certified to ensure they meet stringent standards for limiting chemical emissions. Eco-friendly recessed light housings support green building goals beyond just energy efficiency.

With the right solutions, recessed lighting can be an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally-responsible addition to any residential or commercial space. Let me know if you need any help navigating the range of options for affordable, sustainable recessed lighting!