Changes

To reduce energy consumption all lighting except in the engine room should be DC, fitted with dimmer switches where appropriate. The engine room can have dual DC and AC lighting. The latter will make it easier to work in the engine room when connected to shore power, especially if the DC system must be disconnected. The long tube length of fluorescents will give more even illumination than other types of lighting. However, the DC lighting should give sufficient illumination for work at sea.

All of the light types discussed below are available in low-voltage DC. Dimmer switches can be used with most tungsten and halogen lights but only certain types of fluorescent. Make sure the dimmer switch is compatible with the light and its wattage. In a marine environment, use double-pin ungrounded lamps for all types.