One of the biggest things we take for granted in these modern times is lighting. When the evening gets dark, the simple act of flicking a switch does not even take on significance in most people's minds, and yet having light is one of our prime creature comforts. Without light, so many essential activities would be so much harder; indeed, some pastimes, such as reading, would be impossible with no light.
The 'Credit Crunch' that is currently gripping the nation, however, has served to make some of us more aware of simple things like lighting. We are all trying to save money and conserve energy to keep ourselves afloat, and one aspect of that is looking at areas where electricity can be saved. For those of us who are in this mode of thinking, there are solutions to the problem. Products can be purchased to bring our bills down and provide an answer.
One such product that is fast becoming popular is low voltage downlights. These lights use much less energy than normal downlights, thus saving money on electricity bills. They have an IP20 rating and are easy to maintain. This makes them ideal for places like underneath worktops or desks, especially as they come in stylish, modern designs, including satin brass or brushed nickel finishes. Low voltage downlights are relatively inexpensive to buy, and will be well worth the money saving in the long run, especially as they tend to be sold in sets of five or more. Most sets will also come with a mini connector and cable included, so these will not need to be bought separately. Some low voltage downlights cannot be used in bathrooms, however, due to the moisture. In this case, specialist bathroom lighting will need to be bought.
Low voltage downlights are not the only way of saving money on your lighting costs, however. It is possible to buy products including replacement halogen bulbs, spotlights and transformers that are low voltage, to help save costs. Even lighting that you may not immediately think of, such as cabinet bulbs and spotlights come in low voltage versions.
It is not only the residential household that needs to save money, either. Many businesses are reeling in their costs; encouraging employees to take simple steps to save money such as turning off their computers and lights at the end of the working day. However, sometimes lights must be on in a workplace for a considerable amount of time; cleaners often work after hours as well as those working overtime. To counteract this, low voltage downlights and other lights suited for the commercial setting can be purchased. One example of these is low voltage transformers.
Some people and/or businesses may not be tightening their purse strings at the moment, but it seems that the majority are definitely looking around for cheaper solutions to their running costs. Lighting is only one aspect, but it is a primary concern and it is essential that energy saving products continue to evolve.
By:Charles Barnett
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