How many times have you heard your Mama say, “Turn off the lights!” as you leave a room? This is good advice. However, when you learn that a light burning con­stantly may represent only a penny or two of your energy dollar, you may say, “Why bother?” At the end of the year, it can mount up. Operating under the theory that “every little bit helps,” we′re going to tell you some ways to save on lighting. Here are some common sense ideas that you should try:

1. Always heed your Mama’s advice. Of course it’s easy to remember to turn off lights in rooms often used. Check on those lights in the basement, attic, closets, and other infrequently used areas that could be left on for days.

2. Use the proper size bulb for the lighting task at hand. If a 60-watt bulb will do, don’t waste the extra energy consumed by a 100-watt bulb.

3. Convert your lamps to 3-way bulbs, using the least wattage needed.

4. Dimmer switches can save energy as well as act as mood lighting.

5. Fluorescent lighting costs less than incandescent, so change when you can.

6. Clean both bulbs and fixtures. A layer of dust can give you a dim outlook that may mean you have to turn on more lights.

7. Daylight is free, so open blinds, shades, and drapes, and make sure the window glass is clean.

8. Reflective light is also free, so use light or white colors on walls and ceilings when practical.

9. A timer or an electronic eye should control security lights. That way you don’t forget to turn them off each morning.

Never cut back on light to the point where your eyes will be strained or where the lack of sufficient light becomes a safety or security hazard.