Per the U.S.E.P.A. and the U.S. Dept. of Energy notes that switching from traditional light bulbs to CFL.s is an effective way to reduce energy use and prevent greenhouse gas emissions. Lighting accounts for close to 20% of the average home’s electric bill, and qualified CFL’s use up to 75% less energy and last up to 10 times longer, cost little up front, and provide a quick return on investment.

However, the CFL’s do contain a small amount of mercury within the glass tubing. The CFL’s can break if dropped or roughly handled, so you are cautioned to be careful with the bulb. CFL’s should be disposed of properly, and if one breaks at home you need to follow specific clean-up recommendations. For more information call Com Ed at 1-888-806-2273, or visit www.energystar.gov or www.swalco.org