Switch to fluorescent bulbs and start saving energy
There's no question compact fluorescent bulbs are energy savers. Seattle City Light's conservation expert Anne Ducey knows the numbers.
"They last up to 10 times longer and they use 75 percent less energy," she said.
But they do cost more than incandescent bulbs. That price difference has kept many people from making the switch to CF bulbs.
With Seattle's Twist & Save Program, price is no longer an issue. Dozens of local stores will sell compact fluorescent bulbs at greatly reduced prices. Buy a multi-pack and you could pay less than a buck a bulb with no coupons, no rebate forms.
Consider this: if Seattle City Light reaches its goal of selling 1.2 million CF bulbs next year, the energy saved would equal the amount it takes to power 18,000 homes for a year.
"It's amazing. These little bulbs...collectively it's just a huge savings," Ducey said.
Remember, fluorescent bulbs contain a bit of mercury, so you can't throw the in the trash. But there are places throughout King County where you can recycle them.
For More Information:
Retailers taking part in the Twist & Save Program
King County's Take It Back Network: Fluorescent Bulb & Tube Recyclers
Energy Star: Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
"They last up to 10 times longer and they use 75 percent less energy," she said.
But they do cost more than incandescent bulbs. That price difference has kept many people from making the switch to CF bulbs.
With Seattle's Twist & Save Program, price is no longer an issue. Dozens of local stores will sell compact fluorescent bulbs at greatly reduced prices. Buy a multi-pack and you could pay less than a buck a bulb with no coupons, no rebate forms.
Consider this: if Seattle City Light reaches its goal of selling 1.2 million CF bulbs next year, the energy saved would equal the amount it takes to power 18,000 homes for a year.
"It's amazing. These little bulbs...collectively it's just a huge savings," Ducey said.
Remember, fluorescent bulbs contain a bit of mercury, so you can't throw the in the trash. But there are places throughout King County where you can recycle them.
For More Information:
Retailers taking part in the Twist & Save Program
King County's Take It Back Network: Fluorescent Bulb & Tube Recyclers
Energy Star: Compact Fluorescent Bulbs