Switch to CFLs. Don’t like the look of traditional compact fluorescent lights (CFLs)? No need to worry. CFLs now come in a variety of shapes and styles. These globe-shaped CFLs work well with bathroom vanity fixtures. Feit Electric ECObulbs, available at City Mill.


Consider solar water heating. Water heating eats up 40 percent to 60 percent of the typical household electricity bill. Solar water heating is more affordable these days with an attractive financial incentive from HECO, a $1,000 rebate, as well as federal and state tax credits.

Go low-flow. Low-flow plumbing fixtures save substantial amounts of water compared to conventional fixtures, while providing the same function. Low-flow toilets, faucet aerators and showerheads are available. If the fixture uses hot water, the low-flow will save energy, too.

Check the outlets. All electrical outlets in the bathroom should be ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles. A GFCI cuts off power to the outlet whenever it senses a very small electrical short circuit, such as an electric razor dropped into a water-filled sink. Don’t forget to check them once a month to ensure proper operation. To test the receptacle, plug in a hair dryer and turn it on. Press the “test” button on the GFCI. If the hair dryer turns off, then it’s working properly. Otherwise, the GFCI should be replaced.

Meet code. For example, according to the National Electric Code (NEC 2005), electrical outlets around the bathroom counter area cannot be more than 36 inches from the edge of the sink basin. There must be at least one light switch that controls one or more of the light fixtures in the bathroom; lighting cannot be actuated by a pull chain or illuminated exclusively by passive means, such as a skylight.

Be safe.
1. Avoid hooking up electronically powered CD players, radios or other electronic equipment in the bathroom. Use battery-powered equipment that is made for the bathroom environment.

2. After using electric razors or hair dryers, unplug them and store them away. Periodically check power cords for fraying or damage.

3. When replacing light bulbs in the bathroom, turn off the power at the circuit-breaker panel.
Check the condition of the light fixture for proper sealing and corrosion. Replace or repair if necessary.