Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
Electric lighting burns up to 25% of the average home energy budget.
The electricity used over the
lifetime of a single incandescent bulb costs 5 to 10 times the original
purchase price of the bulb itself.
CFLs are four times more efficient and last up to
10 times longer than incandescents. A 22 watt
CFL has about the same light output as a 100 watt
incandescent. CFLs use 50 - 80% less energy than incandescents.
Although initially more expensive, you save money in the long run because CFLs use 1/3 the electricity and last up to 10 times as long as incandescents. A single 18 watt CFL used in place of a 75 watt incandescent will
save about 570 kWh over its lifetime. At 8 cents per kWh, that equates to a $45 savings.
Replacing a single incandescent bulb with a CFL
will keep a half-ton of CO2 out of the atmosphere over the life of the bulb. If everyone in the U.S. used energy-efficient lighting, we could retire 90 average size power plants. Saving electricity reduces CO2 emissions, sulfur oxide and high-level nuclear waste.
Newer CFLs give a warm, inviting light instead of the "cool white" light of older fluorescents. They use rare earth phosphors for excellent color and warmth. New electronically ballasted CFLs don't flicker or hum.
CFLs can be applied nearly anywhere that incandescent lights are used.
Energy-efficient CFLs can be used in recessed fixtures, table lamps, track lighting, ceiling fixtures and orchlights. 3-way CFLs are also now available for lamps with 3- way settings. Dimmable CFLs are also available for lights using a dimmer switch.
