Dare we say that spring is in the air? The daffodils have made a tentative entrance so it’s safe to say we’re getting there. As we turn the clocks forward and make the most of longer, brighter days, the savvy among us will also know that this time of year also brings the opportunity to save on energy costs.
Lighting Timers
Most blocks make use of lighting timers to bring lights on automatically during the evenings and overnight into the early hours of the morning. During the winter, this means high energy use- thankfully, now is the time to re-set your timers.
Residents can enjoy the natural daylight for far longer each day, reducing the needs for energy-sapping artificial light. This usually means an improvement in the overall atmosphere of a block- especially when partnered with a deep spring clean!
Passive Infrared Sensors
Another useful tool in the energy-saving toolbox, passive infrared sensors can reduce the need for endless artificial lighting even further. These sensors detect movement within a space to activate lighting for a short period of time. This ensures that lighting is only in use when needed, rather than being simply ‘on’ during darker hours and ‘off’ during the daylight.
Passive infrared sensors can be recommissioned to suit the longer days too. Setting them to disregard movement during daylight hours can save even more on your energy costs while maintaining a well-lit, comfortable space.
Savings to be Made
By utilising natural daylight and optimising existing technology to suit the season, residential blocks can reduce their energy usage significantly.This is good news for the environment and for your pocket.
According to energy experts, taking these two simple steps can bring you notable savings over the Spring and Summer months- great news for residents as we continue through the cost-of-living-crisis.
Benefits of Natural Sunlight
It’s also worth noting the undeniable, measurable effects of natural light on humans. Upping our natural sunlight exposure can reduce stress and seasonal affective disorder symptoms, boost vitamin D production and settle our circadian rhythms- leading to better sleep.
Sunlight can also play a part in benefiting our vision, our general mood and even our productivity. Encouraging the use of natural light throughout your block can have far-reaching, positive effects.
So, as you turn your clocks forward this spring, take a moment to consider how you can make the most of the longer days and reduce your energy costs. By recommissioning timers and passive infrared sensors, you can enjoy the benefits of natural daylight and save on energy costs at the same time.
