Energy-Saving Light Control Systems
Using electronic lighting control systems to save energy is increasingly a mandatory part of commercial lighting design, and it can be a big energy-saver at home as well. A lighting control system is a computer programmed with a keypad or touch panel to turn lights on and off at specified times, and/or to provide less or more light in a room for different times of use. Motion sensors are typically incorporated into these systems, turning on lights when someone walks into a room and turning them off when no motion is sensed after a period of time.
Many light control systems are light-sensitive, meaning that they only turn on electric lights when there is insufficient daylight in the area. They can be programmed to control blinds and fans as well as lights. Your light control system can be applied to your whole house or to one area, such as your outdoor lighting system.
As these systems become more popular, options continue to expand. There are now many companies with a broad selection of offerings for any size of house, and programming has become more user-friendly. Installation can be hard wired with low voltage wiring—often best done during the initial construction of a house—or wireless (like your tv remote). Some allow you to program your system from your computer, although most are free-standing systems with their own keypad that either mounts flat on a wall or sits on a table.
A light control system tailored to your individual living patterns can be a great strategy for greener residential lighting. For more information, read this Electronic House article about detailing your light control system.