For most of us, there's just no getting around the necessity of light. There's also no getting around the fact that most forms of lighting take electricity, or the impact that electricity has on both our budgets and on the environment. Fortunately, nature blessed us with a free light source to get us through the day; but once that sun goes down, the electric lights go on and the energy drain begins. As the summer winds down, the days are growing shorter, and the need for artificial light is growing longer. Here are a few tips for conserving energy in the process of lighting up your nights.

• Switch out incandescent light bulbs for CFL or LED bulbs. This isn't the first time we've made this suggestion. It probably won't be the last, either, since it's such an easy change to make, and it carries such a heavy return on investment: their longevity and efficiency make them far less expensive to the consumer than incandescent bulbs. Plus, replacing just one bulb with a CFL will prevent half a ton of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere over the life of the bulb.
• Turn off lights that you aren't using. This may be common sense, but it can be a difficult thing to remember. To help with that, you can install motion or occupancy sensors that will automatically turn the lights on and off as needed. It's another small investment with a big return.
• Install dimmers, like we discussed in last week's post, to reduce wattage and make sure you're not using more than you actually need.
• Instead of lighting up an entire room, opt for targeted task lighting to focus light where it's needed the most.
• Consider hanging mirrors throughout your home. They'll not only make your space appear larger, but also brighten it by reflecting light.

It's hard to imagine here in the dog days of summer, but winter will be here before we know it. If you start making these little changes now, you'll be able to enjoy a cozy, well-lit holiday season without breaking the bank.