Dimmer Controls:

Dimmers allow you the most flexibility in one space whether reading the newspaper or having a romantic dinner at your table.  But did you also know that dimmers can dramatically increase the life expectancy of light bulbs and save electricity at the same time.

Percent dimmed         Electricity saved           Increase bulb life
10% dimmed…………………..…….5%…………………..…….2 times
25% dimmed………………...…….10%…………………....….4 times
50% dimmed………………...…….25%…………..…...…….20 times
75% dimmed…………………...….50%…………….....…….20 times plus

Also, consider dimmers on exterior lights for low level ambiance or how about security lighting that doesn't annoy the neighbors.
Compact fluorescent bulbs are also an excellent source for energy conservation.

Ceiling Fans:

Now is the time to select your ceiling fan.  Select a fan that is large enough for the room, larger than 12 x 15 use a 52" fan.  Remember, the fan will look larger in the showroom than in your home.  Most smaller rooms, can use a 42" fan.  If you are very limited for space, most companies now make a 29" fan.  Stay away from any fan without at least a 12 degree pitch to the blades, and use a 14 degree pitch fan blade whenever possible for ceilings over 9 feet.

Exterior Lighting:

One of the hardest chores of selecting the proper exterior fixture is selecting the correct size.  Although everyone differs about how large to select, we find that most select fixtures far too small for the application.  Any fixture will look MUCH SMALLER on your home than in the showroom.  Select a fixture that is a larger scale than you first select and you most likely will be pleased with the end results.

You've probably seen the results of some of those low voltage (six pack) garden lighting sets sold at various big box home centers. Ugh!
If you don't want your house to look like a landing strip, go to a reputable lighting showroom, with real lighting.  Yes, low voltage lighting can actually work for you, if you use the proper fixtures.




Remember… It's all about lighting!