Save with Smart Lights
With Floridians spending more time at home due to ongoing pandemic restrictions, we think there’s no better time to help you save energy and money. One of the easiest ways to do that is with a few simple lighting-related changes. Though easy to overlook, the lighting in your home can make a major difference for your bottom line, and the new options available out there are both eco-friendly and fun!
As LED lights continue to rise in popularity, you have most likely noticed distinctive LED light bulbs popping out of light sockets in homes, stores and restaurants across the state. These bright and uniquely shaped bulbs aren’t just for looks — they conserve energy and save users a substantial amount of money on their energy bills.
Unlike standard bulbs, LED lights do not contain filaments, which means they last longer. In fact, they last up to 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs, and cost less to use over their life span. Plus, they use less energy, which makes them better for the environment.
But we have more advice for you than simply buying LED light bulbs over traditional ones. You can take savings a step further by investing in smart bulbs, or light bulbs that have the ability to be remotely controlled. These bulbs add convenience (and sometimes, a little fun) to energy efficiency.
Integrating smart lighting allows you to dip your toe in the “smart” pond and start saving on your energy bill. Best of all, smart bulbs work in any standard light socket, so no special lamps are required. Choose the right ones, and they can even light your spaces in any color of the rainbow.
Read on for bright ideas on how to use smart lighting to keep your home energy efficient.
What are smart light bulbs?
Smart bulbs are LED light bulbs that require a smartphone or tablet to operate. They use wireless communication such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to connect to an app that will help control your lighting. You can use smart bulbs to enhance lamps and fixtures, and they even use even less energy than normal LED bulbs and come in multiple color options.
You can also use the app’s automated controls to adjust lighting preferences based on conditions such as occupancy or daylight availability. The app enables you to change the brightness of the bulbs, which means more savings on your energy bill.
With smart lighting, you can set your indoor or outdoor lights to work automatically. Smart lighting networks often allow lights to interact with each other so that they can adjust as a group or even individually through a remote-control setup.
How does smart lighting help me save money?
Have you ever left the house and halfway through your day realized you accidentally left the kitchen lights on? Installing smart lighting will make that a thing of the past.
- Remote lighting: Designed for energy efficiency, you can simply turn your lights off with your app and enjoy some peace of mind. Plus, you can schedule smart light bulbs to turn on or off at certain times throughout the day, bringing even more savings to your pocket.
- Motion sensors: By installing motion sensors, you can turn on a light from the switch or have it turn on when motion or heat of a human body is detected. Remember when activating different kinds of motion sensor devices, they do use a small amount of energy but far less than you’ll consume if you keep forgetting to turn off lights. Plus, you may be able to avoid banging your knee in the dark!
- Upgrading your bulbs: Most smart bulbs are LED, and while LED bulbs may cost a little more up front, they also create savings for you in the long run by using about 85% less energy and lasting up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
While installing smart lighting in your home can provide tons of cool features (hello, color-changing living room!), they are also one of the best smart home purchases you can make for your wallet. When set up properly, smart lighting can save you money on your energy bill and upgrade your space.
Installing smart lighting in your home is a long-term investment, so consider activating FPL’s Energy Analyzer, a free tool to track your energy usage and see how the new lighting is helping you save over time.