What distinguishes an ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulb from a no name compact fluorescent bulb? The answer is quite simple: safety. While most people are aware that the compact fluorescent bulb is lauded for its energy efficiency and ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, its longevity is often overlooked.  The proceeding facts highlight the most redeeming qualities of the ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulb:

• Beginning in January of 2012, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, also dubbed as the “Energy Bill,” signed on December 18, 2007 mandates that all light bulbs use one-third less energy than today’s incandescent bulbs.

 Did you know that lighting accounts for an estimated 20 percent of the average household’s energy bill?

• When compared with the shelf life of the bulb manufactured in 1990, today’s ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulb has almost double the light span.
• To calculate the wattage of an incandescent lamp divide the total wattage by four for an approximated wattage of the ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent lamp, emitting the same light output.
• The ENERGY STAR website features a CFL calculator that provides consumers with the cost savings for replacing CFLs throughout the home.
• The life ratings of a compact fluorescent bulb are assessed according to specific conditions, whereby the bulb has a three hour burning cycle,
• ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs have an average cost ranging from $2 to $15. On the contrary, these bulbs represent approximately $30 or more per bulb in energy savings, providing a return on the initial investment.
• ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs meet UL safety standards –in that they are self-extinguishing.

To offset electricity costs, replace your incandescent bulbs with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs.