An Easy Way To Save Money On Lighting Costs

Occupancy sensors are common in schools, offices, and many other commercial buildings.  They work off of a motion sensor that tells the switch whether there is someone present in the space or not.  When someone walks in front of the switch or a hand motion goes in front of it, it turns the lights to the "On" position.  More importantly, it turns lights off after it does not sense motion anymore in a space saving energy overall. 

The occupancy switches, like the one pictured to the right, all have a manual switch to override the occupancy sensor if necessary.  These units that are single pole cost roughly $25 at almost any hardware store.  There are occupancy sensors that can be tied into 3-way connections also.  They cost in the range of $50 to $100 per sensor.  Average savings is between 10 and 25% on the lighting portion of the electric bill.

This is not only efficient, it is just one less thing to do when you leave a room.  You may get so used to it, you will forget where the switches are.