Page 49 - Green Builder Homeowner's Handbook 2016

Exteriors / Roofing / Structure / Insulation / IAQ / Windows / Heating / Lighting / Appliances / Faucets & Fixtures / Finishes / Cabinets & Tops / Alternative Energy
Not only were the first residential LED products expensive, the
quality of the light was disappointing. LEDs are directional light
sources, which means they emit light in a specific direction, unlike
incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs, which emit light and
heat in all directions. For this reason, LED fixtures use light and
energy more efficiently in many applications; however, they are also
prone to casting a harsh “spotlight,” rather than a diffuse, even light.
Another issue was light quality, which was much cooler than the
warm incandescent bulbs we grew up with. LED products include
a Kelvin rating, which measures the light’s color temperature. In
general, lighting in the 2,700 to 3,000 K range is pleasing to most
people; the higher the number, the “whiter” the light. For comparison,
incandescent bulbs range between 2,700 and 2,800 K.
LED choices have expanded rapidly, from can light and bulb ret-
rofits to dedicated LED fixtures that include internal drivers that
transform their higher voltage to household voltage. Although LED
light quality issues have largely been solved, you still need to be selec-
tive. LED bulbs that have earned Energy Star certification are subject
to specific requirements designed to replicate the experience you are
used to with a standard A-type bulb, so they can be used for a wide
variety of applications. A general-purpose LED bulb that is not certi-
fied may not distribute light in all directions and could prove to be a
disappointment if used in a table lamp.
CFLS
Not Without Issues
Compact fluorescent lights, or CFLs, also produce light differently
than incandescent bulbs. In an incandescent, electric current runs
through a wire filament and heats the filament until it starts to glow.
With a CFL, an electric current is driven through a tube contain-
ing argon and a small amount of mercury vapor. This generates
invisible ultraviolet light, which excites the fluorescent phosphor
coating on the inside of the tube, which then emits visible light.
CFLs need a little more energy when they are first turned on, but
once the electricity starts moving, CFLs use about 70 percent less
energy than incandescent bulbs. Older CFLs used large and heavy
magnetic ballasts that caused a buzzing noise in some bulbs. Most
CFLs today (and all Energy Star-certified CFLs) use electronic ballasts,
which do not buzz or hum.
CFLs used to have cost and light quality advantages over LEDs,
but both of those gaps are closing quickly. Without question, LEDs
are the lights of the future.
CONNECTED LIGHTING
Maximizing Efficiencies
Smart lighting can adjust itself to changing light conditions or oc-
cupancy; it can also be programmed to turn on an off at certain
times. Some smart lights even “learn” occupant behavior and adjust
accordingly. Increasingly, connected lights are part of comprehen-
sive energy management systems. In many cases, these lights can
be synced to other features or devices—so long as they all speak
the same wireless “language.” One example of this is the Caséta
Wireless System, offered by Pennsylvania-based Lutron Electronics.
Through their mobile app, you can control not only your home’s
lighting, but also the position of shades and thermostat settings,
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3 Lighting Control Devices CREDIT: LEVITON
Every Home Needs
It should come as no surprise that lights
can use a lot of energy, especially if they are
left on when not in use. Energy-efficient
bulbs are the most obvious solution to
saving energy and money when it comes
to lighting in the home. Lighting control
devices can help to reduce energy usage
and energy costs even further. These allow
homeowners to customize the amount of
light used, and can ensure that lighting is
only used when needed. Here are three solutions to consider:
Universal Dimmers
What They Do: Dimmer light switches (see above photo) can
help to reduce energy usage by decreasing lighting levels, and
thus decreasing the amount of energy used to keep lights on.
Where to Install: Universal dimmers are ideal lighting control
devices for most areas within a home, giving you the ability to
control lighting levels for any task at hand.
Occupancy Sensors
What They Do: Occupancy sensors ensure lights aren’t left
on when they’re not needed. They automatically turn the
lights on when motion is detected and turn the lights off
when the room has been vacated.
Where to Install: Occupancy sensors are perfect for entry
ways in the home, such as near a door or garage door leading
to the house, a laundry room, utility closet or anywhere where
“hands-free” lighting control is desired.
Lighting Automation Solutions
What They Do: For homeowners looking to take their
lighting control to the next level, lighting automation devices
are the ideal solution. Devices with Z-Wave radio frequency
technology, such as Leviton’s line of Vizia RF + devices, offer
one-touch control of lights; they also allow you to set lighting
“scenes” for certain times of day or events.
Where to Install: Lighting automation solutions are ideal
for living rooms, TV rooms or rooms with lots of windows.
Lighting levels can be adjusted according to time of day and
the availability of natural light.
Source: Leviton
creating “scenes”—coordinated actions among various wireless
devices—for specific events.
Wireless lighting saves the hassle of having to break through
drywall to wire new outlets and switches. If you’re converting to
LED lamps or fixtures anyway, this might be a good time to add
wireless sensors and controls. GB
The Homeowner’s Handbook 2016 GREEN BUILDER 47