Why Act?

Everyone uses light bulbs. In fact we almost take them for granted. Until recently, most bulbs used in homes were incandescent type bulbs – they produce great light, but also generate heat and they don’t last very long. New light bulb technology has brought us compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).

According to the federal Energy Star program, CFLs with the Energy Star label use 2/3 less energy and last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs with the same light output. This saves up to $30 over the life of the bulb. CFLs generate less heat and thus are safer to have in your home. The new CFL technology ensures that these energy efficient bulbs turn on instantly, produce no sound, and provide the warm color range of light that we prefer. They are available in many sizes, shapes, and wattages. The CFLs can be used indoors and outdoors.

The U.S. EPA estimates that if every American home replaced just one light bulb with an ENERGY STAR, we would save enough energy to light more than 2.5 million homes for a year and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of nearly 800,000 cars.

Action Steps

1. Check the Energy Star webpage for very useful information on selecting bulbs for your home.

2. Change out your most frequently used light bulbs. Bulbs are sold at most hardware, grocery, and lighting stores.

Time

Depends how long and how many people it takes for you to change a light bulb!

Resources

Energy Star Program

Energy Star Change a Light, Change the World Pledge

Energy Federation Incorporated