As you may have learned trying to adjust your bedside lamp, light bulbs produce a lot of heat. But did you know that 90% of the energy consumed by light bulbs turns into heat not light?

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 8 times longer. By saving energy, CFLs also lower energy bills and reduce green house gas emissions. Replacing just 4 traditional bulbs with CFLs will prevent 5,000 lbs in carbon dioxide emissions and use $100 less electricity over their lifetime.

Because CFLs use 75% less energy than their incandescent counterparts, fewer watts are needed to produce the same brightness. As a general rule of thumb, choose CFLs with 1/4 the traditional wattage.

Price tends to vary with quality of color spectrum and durability. Read packaging carefully to ensure the CFL product has been designed for the intended use. When CFLs expire, return them to the retailer or recycle them at an approved center.

Ready to make the switch? Start saving energy and green house gas emissions by choosing CFLs next time the lights go out. Look here to find local stores that carry CFL products.

Visit the Energy Star website to learn more.

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