How to Save Money on Light Bulbs

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Everyone wants to save money today and when we cut energy expenditure too, we all win. One quick, painless way to save on energy costs also helps you to save money on light bulbs. When you count up the number of places that light bulbs are used in the home, saving money on light bulbs just makes good sense. Follow these tips so light bulbs won't lighten your wallet.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Turn off lights that are not in use. The quickest and easiest way to save money on light bulbs is to turn off lights in rooms that are not being used. Light bulbs will last longer and you save money on your electric bill.

Step2

Switch from incandescent bulbs to CFL. Switching to the new compact florescent light bulbs saves both money and energy. While they cost a little more, CFL light bulbs last ten times longer than standard incandescent bulbs. CFL bulbs also use approximately 75% less energy.

Step3

Keep light bulbs clean. Dusting your light bulbs helps them work more efficiently, increases the light bulbs life, and helps you save money on light bulbs.

Step4

Use motion control outside lights. Many people install outside fixtures that go on at dusk and off at dawn. This is good except on cloudy days when your outside light can remain on all day and wearing out the light bulb. Switch to motion control fixtures that only illuminate the bulb when someone comes to the door.

Step5

Select the lowest possible wattage light bulb. While a lamp may be able to accommodate a 100 watt bulb (or the CFL equivalent), you are not required to use that high a wattage if it isn't necessary.

Tips & Warnings

The average CFL bulb is only 15 watts, but emits the same amount of light, or "lumens, "as a 60 watt incandescent bulb. Check the packaging of CFL bulbs for their light equivalency.