Saving money on your energy bill can be as easy as changing a light bulb. Using compact fluorescent lights, or CFLs, instead of the standard incandescent bulb can result in significant savings in both time and money.

Here's what makes them such a bright idea:

• CFLs use a third of the energy used by incandescent bulbs, and produce 90 percent less heat.
• CFLs last up to 10 times longer than standard bulbs. They'll need to be changed far less often, making them extra convenient in hard-to-reach and high-use fixtures.
• CFLs save an average of $30 each in energy cost over their lifetime. If you change five bulbs in the most frequently used areas of your home, you'll save more than $150. That's no small change.
• Although CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, they actually have less of an environmental impact than incandescent bulbs. The greatest source of airborne mercury is coal-burning power plants, and replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs will help lower the amount of mercury in the atmosphere.

Tips to consider when purchasing CFLs:

• Place ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs in the fixtures you use most frequently. CFLs are most efficient when they operate for several hours at a time (2 hours or more).
• Certain CFLs are designed to work in dimmable, 3-way fixtures, as well as torchieres. Check the package to be sure you are buying the correct bulb.
• Use ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs in the fixtures that are hard to reach such as ceiling fans, other ceiling fixtures, and enclosed outdoor fixtures. Because CFLs last longer, you enjoy the convenience of buying and changing bulbs less frequently.
• ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs come in a multitude of shapes and sizes. Select the best shape and size to fit your needs
• Smaller sizes mean greater compatibility with your fixtures. Today's ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs are designed to be smaller and thinner than earlier models, so you can install them in a wider variety of fixtures, such as wall sconces, ceiling-mounted fixtures, and ceiling fans.

If you have any questions, call Lumbee River EMC at (910) 843-4131 and speak to our Energy Services Representative.