Harnessing Natural Light to Reduce Electricity Usage

You keep hearing that you need to conserve electricity in your home, but you’re not often told how to do it. One way you can save electricity is by using natural light during the day. Waiting until it gets dark to turn on lights can save you money on your electricity bill and make your light bulbs work for longer. It can also have positive effects on your health and wellbeing. Here are some tips for utilizing natural light in your home. 

Understanding the Benefits of Natural Light

Exposure to natural light helps bodies produce vitamin D, an essential nutrient without many foodborne sources. Utilizing sunlight in place of artificial light can improve your circadian rhythm, help with focus and brighten your mood. It can also make spaces feel more inviting during the day. 

How to Maximize Natural Light in Your Home

One of the best ways to bring natural light into your home is through skylights and windows. Draw your curtains back, and let the sunlight in. Mirrors, as well as light-colored walls, floors and furniture, let light reflect more in each room of the house. Removing obstacles that block light out can also allow more light in. 

Incorporating Smart Lighting Solutions

Natural light may not be the best option for every room, especially during the hottest parts of the year. Smart lighting can have similar benefits to natural lighting. Light sensors that automatically adjust for the amount of natural light in a room can ensure you’re using the right amount of light. Dimmers and timers can control the intensity and duration of having your lights on. You can also find energy-efficient LED bulbs that mimic natural light if real natural lighting is hard to come by. 

Saving Money by Harnessing Natural Light

Reduced electricity consumption naturally leads to lower utility bills. In this way, strategic use of natural lighting can help you keep your costs down. Whether you invest in new fixtures to fully utilize natural lighting or spend a few hours a day with the curtains drawn, you’ll be sure to see the difference in your electricity bills. 

What if it’s Too Hot?

This summer, it feels like there are heat advisories more often than not. If it’s too hot to safely utilize natural lighting during the heat of the day, consider using it only at times when light isn’t directly hitting your windows. Depending on the quality of your windows, you may not have to worry about this. However, if you notice the heat creeping in from outside, your best option is to be more strategic about when you use natural lighting. 

Natural lighting in your home can make a difference in your mood, your sleep and your electric bill. If you’re looking for more ways to decrease your Texas power bill, consider switching to prepaid power with Pronto Power. Give us a call at 844-621-2852.