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Energy Efficient Lighting - CFLs
The use of compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) is one of the simplest ways to reduce energy consumption. There are many shapes and styles of CFLs available to replace your standard incandescent bulbs including CFLs for recessed lights, dimmable CFLs, three-way CFLs, CFL flood lights and many more. There are also many styles of energy efficient lighting fixtures available today.
In general, a CFL uses about 75% less energy and lasts about 10 times longer than an equivalent incandescent bulb. For example, you can replace a 100 watt bulb with a 23-25 watt CFL and still get the same amount of light. In most cases, you simply unscrew the incandescent bulb and replace it with a CFL.
However, while it is easy to install CFLs, it is important to choose the right CFL for your application to be sure that you are satisfied with the appearance of the bulb and the light that it provides. Connecticut's Energy Efficiency Center, the "SmartLiving Center" located in Orange, has many of these products on display. Although the SmartLiving Center does not sell product directly, the staff can assist you in purchasing CFLs through the SmartLiving Catalog or help you to locate a retail outlet that sells them. Personnel at the SmartLiving Catalog call center can also answer many of these questions. Contact them at 1-800-527-4448.
If you need to find a retail outlet, or wish to speak to an energy professional about CFLs or any other energy-related topic, call Connecticut's Energy Information Hotline at 1-877-WISE USE, that's 877-947-3873 or follow these links to learn more about CFLs and efficient lighting in general.
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