Energy Wise Tip: October, 2009
October 2009 EnergyWisesm Tip: “October is built around CFLs.”
Three letters – CFL – have potential to change the way Nebraskans use energy.
Relatively new technology, the compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) is an energy-efficient emitter of light that performs adequately in many, but not all, situations where a standard incandescent light bulb has been used in the past. The CFL has many benefits when compared to its elder cousin. Chief among those, a CFL can last up to 10 times longer than a standard light bulb and uses about 75 percent less energy while producing a comparable amount of illumination.
Here are some facts about CFLs:
- CFLs are safe to use and are energy efficient. It’s true, each bulb contains about 5 milligrams of mercury, but this does not pose a health risk when the bulbs are properly used, handled, and disposed of.
- If a CFL breaks, it is safe for you to clean the broken bulb yourself by following some general safety practices. For more information visit www.epa.gov
- When buying a CFL, select one with an ENERGY STAR® on the label. This indicates the bulb has met strict federal specifications for quality, energy savings, long life, color and brightness.
- CFLs come in all shapes and sizes making it possible for you to replace nearly every conventional light bulb in your home. When shopping for a CFL, check the wattage equivalency numbers on the package.
- A typical 20-watt CFL costs around $3 when purchased as a single bulb and about $2 per bulb or less when purchased in multi-packs. The CFL bulb will often pay for itself in energy savings and low electric bills in less than eight months, depending upon your local electric rate and hours of use. And the energy/cost savings don’t end then; a CFL will save you money throughout its long life.
For more information on steps homeowners can take to improve the efficiency of their homes, contact your local public power utility, or visit the ENERGY STAR® Home Advisor.
