The Key to Lower Energy Costs in Home Lighting

By Al Arbuckel

Are you looking for a bright idea to save money, save energy, and join the green revolution? Then look no further than your nearest light fixture!

Its probably still using the traditional incandescent bulbs invented over 100 years ago by Edison. Unfortunately, those bulbs are only using 10% of the energy consumed for lighting. That's right ... 90% of the energy consumed is wasted!

Well, the future is here. CFL or compact fluorescent lights are here as well as LED bulbs (light emitting diodes). These bulbs are far more efficient, saving you money and helping society to reduce carbon pollution. Learn more below.

Compact fluorescent bulbs have the following benefits in comparison to incandescent bulbs:

1. Just like standard bulbs these bulbs work in standard light fixtures including three-way fixtures and dimmers.

2. They are suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

3. Fluorescent bulbs are available in many shapes and sizes. This includes traditional shapes, globe, vanity, floodlight, and candelabra shapes.

4. Bulbs are available in a varied spectrum of brightness which resemble natural daylight.

5. CFLs use approximately 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.

6. Higher initial cost is recouped in longer bulb life " about 10 times longer than incandescent. That means less work replacing bulbs, too!

7. All of the large manufacturers produce compact fluorescent bulbs. These include Phillips, General electric, Westinghouse and Sylvania.

Light emitting diode bulbs are another even more efficient alternative:

1. Light emitting diode bulbs last approximately 100 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs.

2. They use approximately 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs.

3. Because LEDs are so energy-efficient they are ideal for flashlights, camping lights, and other battery-powered lights.

4. LEDs are suitable for many applications including Christmas lights, pool lights, nightlights, reading lights, and track lighting.

Just think what a difference it could make if every household in the country switched to energy efficient lighting, such as compact fluorescent or light-emitting diode bulbs! Its a win-win solution -- good for your budget, good for the environment, and less housework changing light bulbs!

You can find CFLs or LEDs at your local retailer, or they can be purchased online at www.bulbs.com. - 29939

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