Differentiate between incandescent and fluorescent lights Traditional incandescent lighting create light by heating a filament, which in turn gets white-hot and creates a tremendous amount of lost energy. Fluorescent light bulb makers have perfected a method of containing a UV gas that, when excited by an electrical charge, creates light. Because no heat is created in the process, there is very little lost energy, making them a perfect money-saving, as well as energy-saving, possibility.

I recommend:  A wide selection CFL bulbs can be purchased E3 Living, which features eco-friendly lighting in a variety of designs and colors. The superstore Wal-Mart also an affordable selection of Energy Saver bulbs.

Understanding the wattage chart for fluorescent lighting One concern new users may have is trying to determine what wattage of compact fluorescent light bulb is comparable to the traditional light bulbs currently in use. Fluorescent lighting is generally 4 times more efficient. Therefore, a 15W compact fluorescent is the equivalent to a 60W traditional bulb. A 100W incandescent can be comparably replaced by a 26W-29W fluorescent.

I recommend:  Most fluorescent light bulb suppliers explain the wattage transfer on the package of their fluorescent lighting. You can find these at stores like 1000Bulbs.com, who sell full spectrum fluorescent light bulbs. Light World has a wide variety of bulbs, including the useful mini fluorescent light bulbs.

Know the restrictions of compact fluorescent bulbs While energy saving light bulbs are well worth the effort and up-front cost, they aren't suited for everything. Most fluorescent light bulb makers recommend using the bulbs in open fixtures to allow for adequate air flow. Also, many of these fluorescent bulbs are not recommended for vibrating surfaces, so using them in ceiling fans is not encouraged. However, this is an ever-changing marketplace and progress is being made to make CFL bulbs more universally useful.

I recommend:  Light Bulbs Etc. features a line of reflector lights that work better in recessed fixtures. Do It Best also offers these handy reflector bulbs.