Energy Saving Light Bulbs

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Using an energy efficient light bulb helps reduce energy consumption and is a small step you can take to help protect the Earth.

Why Choose Energy Saving Light Bulbs

Energy Saving Light Bulbs use at least 75 percent less energy than a traditional incandescent bulb and can last much longer. Depending on the type of bulb, an energy saving light bulb can last 10 to 35 times longer than an incandescent. In 2008, the average American household spent $185 a year on lighting, but energy saving light bulbs will save you at least $30 over their lifetime, cutting down on that expenditure. Switching is a simple step that saves you money and can reduce your pollutant output.

About Energy Saving Light Bulbs

CFLs are a smaller version of the long florescent light bulbs you see in an office building. They work by running a current through mercury vapor inside the tube. The mercury vapor gives off ultraviolet light which then reacts with a coating on the inside of the tube to create visible light. Most CFLs that are available for regular use are integrated CFLs, meaning they have been adapted to be used interchangeably with incandescent bulbs.

Mercury in Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

CFLs are a great choice for many lighting needs, but they do have some limitations. Most importantly, CFLs contain mercury, neurotoxin that can be deadly to humans. This means you must treat CFL lights very carefully; don't dispose of them in regular garbage unless there are no other options available. Many hardware stores collect CFLs for recycling, and many towns and cities will collect household hazardous wastes including used CFLs.

Take to Consider

The energy efficient options use less wattage to create the same amount of light as a higher wattage incandescent light. A 7-watt Energy Saving Light Bulb is equivalent to a 25-watt Incandescent Light Bulb. Make sure to get the right amount of light for the job. Additionally, the quality and color of Energy Saving Light Bulb is different from Incandescent Light Bulbs, as an important consideration when switching to the new bulbs.