Problem:
Pictured here are the different types of recessed can lighting in your home. You know, where the bulb is recessed into the ceiling. The pictures reflect the actual “can” that is up in your attic. The most common is the light can with all the ventilation. Insulation has to be away from this can or you could have a fire. Also, while this ventilates the light bulb and all the heat it produces, it can actually act like a chimney and take all of your air-conditioned air right up into the attic! Imagine if you have several of these in your house. You can lose a lot of air to your attic!

Solution:
Recessed can covers allow you to cover the can. Thus, you can insulate over the cover and stop the chimney effect. You can get these covers from most insulation companies or make your own. E-mail me for how to make one: chris@remodelingshow.net. I recommend, however, that you allow one of the insulation companies to install them. It's much cooler and safer!

Compact Fluorescent Bulbs:

Problem:
You have lights that you use a lot or that you might not remember to turn off. These may be surface lights like in the bathrooms; utility room; garage, or maybe your favorite lamp all of which you a regular incandescent light bulb. Plus, how often to you have to change those light bulbs?

Solution:
Compact Fluorescents Bulbs (CFL) probably can help you. Now, you might find, these take some getting used to. First, they are a little pricey. Ranging from $8.00 to $15.00 per bulb may sound like a lot, but given that they last from 5 to 7 years can easily save you some on buying light bulbs. But this biggest reason is the savings on electricity. One 20w cfl is the same as a 75w regular bulb and without all the heat.

Here are some examples of the compact fluorescents you can buy:
When buying bulbs remember:

• Buy one or 2 and try them out. You may light them in some areas and not in others.
• Do not buy the cheapest. Stay with Phillips, Sylvania, etc.
• Look on the package for color.
• You want to stay close to 3000.

For more information, check out www.energystar.gov/products/cfls/