A quick, painless money saving tip every TuesdayWhoops! Forgot to post this yesterday!
Switch your light bulbs to CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs). You've heard the buzz; what are you waiting for? Although they have a higher upfront cost, they use a fraction of the energy of regular bulbs and they last for about 7 years! Plus, today's CFLs come in many different varieties, so you're not stuck with harsh fluorescent light. We use CFL's in pretty much every light fixture in our house and have no problems, and we have noticed the energy savings.
You can read more about using CFLs here.
You point out CFLs benefits, but they have some serious downsides that should not be overlooked. I strongly suggest you look at the "Learn more about what to do if a CFL breaks in your home" document found at the "Learn the facts about mercury in CFLs" link in your EPA Energy Star link. Basically, breaking one requires treating the area like it is a Hazardous Waste Site. Leave your house for 15 minutes, double bag all the materials like vacuum bags, used paper towels, etc. Then contact your local government to try to find a hazardous materials facility that will accept it as broken CFLs are not to be thrown in with regular trash. As for me I'll stay with an incandescent.
ReplyDeleteThanks for pointing out those important points. Of course, everyone should use prudence when deciding what materials to use in their homes. Of course, chances are you will not break a lightbulb very often. Remember, we all used to use mercury thermometers!
ReplyDeleteNevertheless, from what I understand, LED lights will be the next big thing. As far as I know, they will not have the mercury issue.