It's time for DIY network to increase your sweat equity IQ.

You want to brighten your home and increase your home equity? Consider replacing all outdated light fixtures. New stylish lighting will really improve the look of a room, and old fixtures not only look bad, they also waste energy. Look for new light fixtures that have an Energy Star rating, made to work with compact fluorescent bulbs. They use a quarter of the energy of traditional fixtures and that translates into real savings.

Another great way to save energy and update a room is to install new manual or programmable dimmers. New electronic dimmers are more efficient. Dimming lights by 50%, not only cuts electric use almost in half, it makes bulbs last 20 times longer. New energy efficient lighting will pay for itself in a few years time, and it looks great too.

So, when it comes time to sell, you can bet potential buyers will see your home in a whole new light. Increase your sweat equity IQ 24x7 at diynetwork.com.