When temperatures rise, your instinct might be to crank up the AC — but that can lead to sky-high energy bills. Most homeowners know that adjusting your thermostat during certain times of the day can help reduce cooling costs, but did you know your lighting choices can support this effort too?

At Malane Lighting, we believe smart lighting isn’t just about style — it’s also about efficiency and comfort. Here’s how lighting plays a surprisingly important role in your home’s temperature control and your energy bill.

🌡️ First: The Best Time to Adjust Your Thermostat

According to energy experts and HVAC professionals, the best strategy in summer is to:

• Raise your thermostat during the day (when you’re away) to around 78–80°F (25–27°C)

• Lower it in the evening when you return home or as outdoor temperatures drop

But here’s what many forget: lighting contributes to indoor heat — and energy waste — if not optimized.

💡 How Lighting Affects Home Temperature

1. Traditional Bulbs Give Off Heat
Incandescent and halogen bulbs release up to 90% of their energy as heat, which can work against your cooling system — especially in smaller rooms or during peak heat hours.

2. LED Lighting Reduces Ambient Heat
Switching to LED lighting can dramatically reduce internal heat generation. Not only are LEDs more efficient, but they also stay cool to the touch — helping you maintain a more comfortable indoor climate.

3. Smart Lighting Helps You Adjust Automatically
Smart lighting systems allow you to:

• Dim lights during the hottest part of the day

• Schedule lights to turn off while you're away

• Use motion sensors to prevent unnecessary use (and heat)

🕓 Optimize Lighting by Time of Day

• Morning (6–9 AM): Use cool-white LEDs in work areas to wake up naturally while temperatures are still low.

• Afternoon (12–4 PM): Turn off unnecessary lights; use natural light wisely with sheer curtains and task lighting only when needed.

• Evening (6–10 PM): Warm, low-level ambient lights can help relax your body while reducing glare and maintaining a lower indoor temp.

🌿 Pro Tip: Combine Lighting + Thermostat Strategy

To maximize summer energy savings:

• Pair a smart thermostat with smart lighting schedules

• Focus on LED retrofits in high-use areas like kitchens, living rooms, and hallways

• Consider solar-powered outdoor lights to cut energy use after dark