OK, I’m sure you’ve probably heard this one before, but one of the most basic things you can do to save energy is to switch your light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs.  Yes, they are more expensive than regular light bulbs.  They will also save you a serious amount of money over the life of the bulb.  CFL’s use about 75% less energy and last about 10 times longer than regular bulbs.  The best strategy is to replace your regular bulbs with CFLs as they burnout.  That will ease the financial burden.

We’ve switched our entire house to CFL’s and I was able to notice a difference in our electric bill.  I calculated the savings for the light fixture above our kitchen table to be $4-$5 per month by itself!  This fixture stays on for 6-8 hours per day and uses 5 bulbs.  By watching the specials at your local store, you should be able to get the cost of your bulbs to around $1 each.

Cost:  around $1 per bulb

Monthly savings:  $5 and up

Payback:  2 months and up.  Payback will be longer on bulbs that are used less often.

Outside source:  Energy Star

Photo Credit:  fangleman