| Compact Fluorescents (CFL) | Cold Cathode Bulbs | Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) | |
| Details | • Create light by warming a gas inside the tubes • Use 75 percent less electricity and last 10 times longer than incandescent (if Energy Star labeled) • Come in many shapes, sizes and wattages, including dimmers and three-way bulbs • Contain tiny amounts of mercury; require hazardous waste disposal |
• A CFL that operates at room temperature and lasts up to twice as long as a regular CFL • Dimmable; turn on instantly • Come in variety of shapes, sizes and wattage • Fit in standard light socket • Contain tiny amounts of mercury; require hazardous waste disposal |
• Bright-white, focused beam is ideal for recessed lighting, desk lamps, spotlights. • New designs offer more dispersed light (60-degree angle). • Are 10 times more efficient than incandescents; three times more than CFLs • Give off little heat; fit into standard light sockets • Contain no mercury |
| Light | 18-watt (Energy Star) | 8-watt | EcoLED 7-watt |
| Replaces | 75-watt bulb | 45-watt bulb | 75-watt bulb |
| Estimated cost | $3 to $9 each | $8 to $14 each | $80 each |
| Lifespan | 6,000 to 10,000 hours | 18,000 to 25,000 hours | 50,000 hours |
| Electricity savings over lifespan | $30 | $40 | $350 |
| Find it |
Your Guide to Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

Cut energy costs by choosing the right eco-friendly light bulb for your home.
Photo By K. Latham/Courtesy Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/programwitch/)
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