Lighting the way to efficient kitchens and bathrooms

(NC)-Kitchens and bathrooms, the most used areas of any home, are also the focus of the majority of renovation projects undertaken in Canada. Careful planning is essential to ensure that renovations deliver the desired benefits. Lighting is one of the most important considerations in any effective renovation plan.

A properly designed lighting system will not only create a variety of moods, but will also save money on electricity bills. Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) provide the same amount of light as standard incandescent bulbs, yet consume only one third of the energy. In addition, CFLs fit readily into standard light fixtures and are available in a wide range of sizes, colours, styles and wattages.

The best CFLs carry the ENERGY STAR® symbol, an international standard for energy efficiency. These products deliver the largest savings in energy costs over their lifetimes. CFLs earn the ENERGY STAR label by meeting rigorous standards for efficiency, longevity, colour rendition and brightness.

Kitchen

Based on standard techniques, lighting a medium-sized kitchen requires approximately 200 to 300 watts of power. CFLs will illuminate workspaces and provide accent lighting just as effectively as incandescent bulbs - and cost much less to operate.

Kitchen renovation tips

• Position the sink in front of a window to maximize daylight; install recessed halogen bulbs above the sink or fluorescent bulbs in side valences.

• Use suspended decorative pendant fixtures fitted with CFLs to light tables, breakfast counters and islands.

• Reduce countertop shadows with fluorescents mounted under cabinets.

• Install a separate dimmer switch for each area to maximize flexibility and efficiency.

Bathroom

In most homes, bathroom lights are used for an average of two hours a day. Following the tips below can help you cut your bathroom-lighting costs.

Bathroom renovation tips

• Take particular care when lighting areas near mirrors and vanities. To eliminate shadows, install lights alongside, rather than above or directly opposite, mirrors. If lights must be installed above a mirror, a light-coloured countertop will help reduce shadows. Warm-coloured bulbs, such as those with rare-earth phosphor coatings, are ideal for dressing areas.

• Install recessed vertical fluorescent lights with electronic dimming ballasts over vanities.

• Use recessed low-voltage halogen spotlights to highlight features such as faucets and plants.

The Government of Canada has issued the One-Tonne Challenge to all Canadians. It's a personal commitment to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by one tonne, or about 20 percent, per year. Choosing energy-efficient lighting can help you reach that goal.

For more information about CFLs and Energy Star, or to learn how to reduce your energy bills, contact Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency (OEE) toll-free at 1 800 387-2000, visit www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca or www.energystar.gc.ca or write to the OEE c/o S.J.D.S., Ottawa, Ontario K1G 6S3.