October 14, 2008
The Greenlite Light Bulb - Energy Saving is a Go
In the mere span of the time it takes to change a light bulb, you can be initiating your personal involvement in the widespread green movement. It's simply a matter of doing, putting an ecofriendly twist on the way you use your energy, especially in terms of light bulbs. All that has to be done is changing your old incandescent bulbs to a Greenlite bulb, or two or more. And it's a wise move that is not only face value, intelligent, but also relevant, especially in such a time when the conservation of the environment and energy efficiency is such a pressing issue. So, I guess the question to ask or joke to push forth could be "how many non-green individuals does it take to screw in a light bulb?" The answer, simply enough, is one and it can be you. So, just Watt Exactly is the Deal Here? The deal is a bright, more efficient and green one. The incandescent light bulb ways of now are quickly becoming the incandescent light bulb ways of old, and this is simply because many individuals are realizing that Greenlite light bulb options - or CFL (Compact Fluorescent) light bulbs - are that much more beneficial to adopt and utilize in their everyday energy-using lives. The deal also carries over to your wallet and electric bill. Savings will start the day you change from incandescent bulbs to CFL bulbs, and they will continue to beam with financial promise as they'll provide you with rolled on savings into the next few days, weeks, months and even years ahead. The Advantages of the Greenlite Light Bulb are Beaming Lighting with a CFL Greenlite light bulb is truly a brightening experience. With high quality, warming white light and a slew of fixture as well as wattage selections to choose from, the incandescent, energy-exhaustive way of old really begins to seem like a dim and unpromising lighting option. But, beaming with promise and finally showing you the light are the many perks that come with lighting with a CFL twist. It's all about energy saving with CFL use - nearly embracing a 75% more energy efficient bulb option. Also, consider that in terms of longevity a single Greenlite light bulb can last up to 7 years, which saves you from buying additional bulbs for periodic changing. Getting the Most Out of your Greenlite Light Bulb Getting the longest life and best savings, you need to take a few things into consideration when adopting CFL bulbs in your living space. Firstly, screw on CFL bulbs in areas of your home you frequent most, such as the kitchen, den, family room and so on. Also, be sure to turn on the bulbs and leave them on - don't flick them on and off for short-term use. It's best to leave them running for at least 15 minutes at a time, as to maintain longest life possible. And if you have lighting fixtures for your outdoor living spaces, use CFL light bulbs there as well. Not only will you get a financial saving and more natural lighting benefit, but you'll also be taking the green movement directly to where its concern lies - in the thick of the environment. Get green and use a Greenlite light bulb, or two or a few. Once you do, you'll not only be easing into the green scene and leaving incandescent ways behind you, but you'll also be catching up to the energy-efficient way of living.

September 10, 2008
Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs
Swapping regular bulbs for compact fluorescent can save you at least $30 per bulb over a CFL's life. The latest bulbs are better than earlier ones. Yet the myths burn on. Here are some of the most common misconceptions: Myth: Finding a recycler is hard. Reality: You shouldn't throw used CFLs out with the trash. But Home Depot, Ikea, and some Ace and True Value stores accept unbroken CFLs no matter where you bought them. Wal-Mart sells the most CFLs. A spokeswoman told us the chain was looking into a recycling program, but it didn't have one as we went to press. You can also contact your public works department or go to www.epa.gov/bulbrecycling. Myth: Compact fluorescents are pricey. Reality: Some CFLs now cost less than $2 compared with $9 to $25 in 1999. Several lasted five to 10 times as long as regular bulbs in our tests, and Energy Star versions use up to 75 percent less power. They're also warranted for as long as nine years. Write the purchase date on the bulb in indelible ink. And save your receipt. Myth: CFLs produce a harsh blue light. Reality: Many now light like ordinary bulbs. Those with a 2,700 to 3,000 Kelvin (K) number have a warmer, yellower color; 3,500 K to 6,500 K bulbs emit a bluer or whiter light. Energy Star CFLs must include the Kelvin number on the package as of December. Look for CFLs labeled "soft" or "warm" white for light like an incandescent's, and choose "bright white," "natural," or "daylight" for whiter light. Myth: CFLs flicker when the first light. Reality: That happened in earlier CFLs with magnetic ballasts. New ones use faster, electronic ballasts. Myth: These bulbs need time to turn on. Reality: Turn-on is now nearly instant. But most CFLs we tested took about 30 seconds to reach 80 percent of their brightness, and some flood and outdoor lights took 90 seconds or more. That's why some appear dim at first and aren't ideal for areas such as closets or stairs. Myth: CFLs contain lots of mercury. Reality: Each bulb has a tiny fraction of the mercury in a traditional fever thermometer. Energy Star CFLs will have strict limits by the end of this year. Myth: Compact fluorescent lightbulbs release mercury as they burn. Reality: The mercury is sealed inside the glass tubing. Myth: You need to put on a hazmat suit if you drop one of these bulbs. Reality: Exposure to broken CFLs can pose a health risk, especially to a fetus or young child. But don't panic. Open a window, shut off central A/C or forced-air heating, and clear the room for at least 15 minutes as the Environmental Protection Agency recommends. Then follow the EPA'S cleanup guide at www.epa.gov/mercury/spills. And be sure to keep CFLs out of lamps that could easily tip, especially in rooms used often by children or pregnant women. Myth: CFLs smoke when they burn out. Reality: Today's spent bulbs typically flicker, dim, or emit a reddish-orange glow. If one you own smokes or smolders, turn off power to the light and allow the bulb to cool before removing it and taking it to a retailer or other recycler.