Lighting
Incandescent, or standard, light bulbs are the most common type of home lighting,
but are also the most expensive type to operate. A compact fluorescent light (CFL)
costs more to purchase, but uses 75% less energy and lasts up to 10 times longer than
an incandescent, making it about $30 less expensive over the life of the bulb.
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Replace incandescent bulbs and fixtures with compact fluorescent bulbs, tubes
and fixtures to save on your lighting costs.
- CFLs produce about 75% less heat, so they're safer to operate and can cut your cooling costs.
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When selecting light bulbs, consider the light output (lumens), instead of the watts.
A 15-watt CFL provides the same light (800 lumens) as a typical 60-watt incandescent bulb.
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Consider replacing fluorescent lamps with the new energy-saving T-8 fluorescent lamps.
You'll have to change the ballast as well, but the new lamps will make your home look
brighter and more natural.
- To save the most energy and money, replace your highest use bulbs and fixtures first. Focus on the kitchen ceiling lights, the living or family room table and floor lamps, and outdoor porch or post lamp.
- Turn off lights when not in use. You save more energy turning them off than leaving them on.
