- Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). If an entire country (Australia) can do it, then you can do it too. But, wait until your current bulbs burn out before you make the switch so you don’t waste your money. Yes, CFL bulbs are more expensive, but even the cheapest energy saving CFLs will typically last for 5,000 hours compared to only just over 1,000 hours on average for the best conventional bulbs. And, the light is different, so you’ll need to make some mental adjustments to the change. But, the effort is very green both for the earth and for your wallet in the long run. You can save $30 or more in energy costs over each CFL bulb’s lifetime.
- Learn about CFL disposal. When those CFL bulbs do burn out, you’ll be faced with trace amounts of mercury on your hands. So don’t throw them into your garbage. Instead, save them until you learn about how to dispose of them locally.
- Learn more about electricity. Ask "Mr. Electricity" for advice about how to conserve energy and cash on any electrical appliance, including lighting. Banish myths, calculate your energy output, and learn how to live greener.
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