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The Best Way to Use Lighting Switches and Controls

The Best Way to Use Lighting Switches and Controls

Updated 2 January 2020 12:17 PM


Light dimmers and motion sensors can actually save you a lot of money. As can the thoughtful placement of switches



  1. Use multiple switches for multiple lights, as it is not energy efficient to have one switch to turn on all the lights.
  2. Where possible, use timers, daylight controls, or motion sensors, to switch on outdoor, or security lighting.
  3. Use motion sensors for hallways and places that connect parts of the house.
  4. Carefully place the lighting controls, preferably near the exits to the rooms to encourage lights to be switched off.
  5. If relevant, opt for light dimmers. Not only are these perfect for when you need bright light but also uses less energy.
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Science Notes

Lights that are able to be dimmed use less energy.

Dimming switches use a Triac Switch which reduces the total amount of energy which flows through the circuit. However this is only applicable to newer lights.

By dimming a light bulb 10%, you will save 10% on electricity and the bulb will last approximately 2 times longer. By dimming a light bulb 50% you will save 40% on electricity and the bulb will last approximately 20 times longer. 

Related Tip

Lighting switches with USB ports are a great option to charge electronics such as mobile phones and iPods.

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