Is It Healthier for My Body to Turn Off Lights in the Home During the Day?

Lighting Industry Professional here. The answer is directly no. Not enough light is not good, and there are many reasons for that.

Is Dim Light Beneficial for Health?

Research shows that too little light during the day can disrupt your circadian rhythm, lead to lethargy, and even affect your mood and mental health. Exposure to natural or artificial bright lights helps regulate the body's internal clock. Artificial lighting should not be a substitute for sunlight, but it can improve your energy levels and help with tasks during the day.

Task Lighting and Its Importance

There are levels of illumination professionally set for tasks like reading, cooking, or studying. For example, task lighting should provide enough brightness to perform these activities without straining your eyes. Professional lighting showroom washes typically provide a guide for setting the right levels of light for various tasks. For instance, a well-lit workspace can improve productivity and reduce eye strain.

Why Turning Off Lights Isn’t Always a Good Idea

Shutting off lights solely because they are not needed during the day is not a good practice. Even though it might seem like a cost-saving measure, insufficient lighting can hinder your ability to perform tasks efficiently and can even cause secondary injuries. For example, when driving at night, a sudden movement due to poor visibility can lead to accidents.

Economic Considerations

While it is true that turning off lights when not needed can save money on the electric bill, the savings might not be as significant as expected. Modern LED lights are highly energy-efficient, and the returns on the initial investment are often minimal. Hence, keeping lights off for prolonged periods without a valid reason might not be the most cost-effective approach.

Healthier Choices for Your Home

For real health benefits, you need to embrace natural sunlight. Spend a bit of time outside or near a sunny window. Sunlight is a powerful source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. However, if you cannot get outside, using proper indoor lighting can help.

Using Light Wisely

Here are a few practical tips for using light in your home without compromising your health or comfort:

Use dimmable lights: This allows you to adjust the lighting intensity based on your needs, ensuring you have enough light for tasks. Position lights strategically: Place lights where they are needed, such as over a work area or near a reading chair. Consider task-specific lighting: Invest in specialized lights for specific tasks, such as a desk lamp for reading or a standing lamp for cooking. Use energy-efficient bulbs: LED bulbs can reduce energy consumption and last longer, making them a cost-effective choice. Utilize sunlight: Open curtains or blinds to let natural light into your home, especially during the day.

In conclusion, turning off lights during the day might seem like a harmless and cost-effective idea, but it can actually be detrimental to your health and well-being. Proper lighting is essential for productivity, safety, and overall comfort. Use light wisely and incorporate natural sunlight whenever possible for health and energy efficiency.