Spring cleaning is an annual ritual for many homeowners. You open your windows and doors and get to work removing all the dust and clutter that piled up over the winter. Besides the usual decluttering and deep cleaning, you need to focus on your lighting to improve it and save money on your energy bills.

Clean Your Light Fixtures

Your light fixtures accumulate dust, which makes your room look dimmer. You may use additional lighting to compensate. By dusting and wiping the fixtures down, you allow more light to illuminate the room without having to use more electricity.

Dust and Wash Lampshades

The lampshade’s purpose is to reduce glare and dim the light somewhat. If it’s dirty, it will reduce the amount of light more than you want. A clean lampshade allows light to shine brighter.

To clean fabric, plastic, or vinyl lampshades, all you need is dish soap and water. Dusting a paper lampshade is enough because using water could warp it.

Wipe the Bulbs

Dust the lightbulb so that dust won’t dim its brightness. If you notice any smudges or stuck-on dirt, use a damp cloth. A clean rag lightly dipped in rubbing alcohol could also work.

Declutter Around Lamps and Light Fixtures

Clutter around your lamps or fixtures reduces the amount of light they give off. It also increases the risk of fire if the bulb heats nearby objects. For this reason, you should also remove clutter from around your cords and power strips.

Clean Your Windows

Your windows let a great deal of light into your home. If they’re dirty, however, they can’t do as thorough a job. You may then need to use lamps during the day to light certain parts of your home. You may need to use them earlier in the day as well.

A regular ammonia-free window cleaner is usually sufficient to remove everyday smudges. It’s a safer alternative, for both household members and the environment, to using an ammonia-based cleaner. It’s also less abrasive to your windows. However, if you have any heavy grime or buildup, you may need to use a window cleaner with ammonia after all.

Use these tips to get your home sparkling clean and make it a happier, healthier place to live. While reaping these benefits, you may also increase the lighting in a room and ultimately reduce your need to add lamps or use higher-wattage bulbs. The main benefit is when you start to see your electric bill decreasing.

If you live in Maui, HI or a surrounding area and need lighting services, make your first call to Electric Service of Maui.