One of the best things you can do to save energy in the home, and reduce your electricity bills, is to buy and fit a low energy lamp. These are compact versions of the familiar fluorescent tube, they are known as compact fluorescent lamps (CFL's). They do cost most more than a normal light bulb but they are worth it. A CFL can last up to ten times as long as an ordinary lightbulb and uses less than a quarter of the electricity. They cost about £4 - £10 but there are usually special promotional offers to be found, if you hunt them out!

How Much will a CFL save me?

If you replace an ordinary 100 watt bulb which is used for about six hours a day with a CFL of similar light output. It will have paid for itself in reduced electricity costs in about a year, and will continue to make savings for another 4 ½ years.

So, What Should I do?

If you can't afford to replace all of your light bulbs at once, start with the places where you have the lights on for a long time, e.g. the hallway, landing, frequently used lamps, main light in the living room, or outside security lighting. The only places where CFL's cannot be used are where you have conventional dimmer switches or certain other electronic switching devices and timers, though some models are compatible.

What 'formats' of CFL are there?

CFL's are available in a bayonet or screw type fitting. They come in various shapes, colours and sizes to fit different light fittings.