Energy saving lightbulbs and fittings

There are now more good reasons than ever to buy energy saving lightbulbs. Read our guide below to find out more or download our brochure 'A bright idea has got even better - energy saving lightbulbs.'

1. Overview

Energy saving lightbulbs have always been a bright idea - for your pocket and the environment. They use up to 80 per cent less electricity than a standard bulb, but produce the same amount of light.

In other words, they can help you to save money and energy, all in one wise purchase. And by saving energy, you'll be helping to fight climate change too.

That's the good news. Now, here's some more.
Technology's moved on a lot since energy saving lightbulbs were first invented, and so has the way they look. In fact, whatever types of bulbs you use to light your home, there are sure to be stylish energy saving equivalents.

So, why not switch to energy saving lightbulbs today?
As you'll see, even the best excuses no longer apply?

Watch our video guide to energy saving lighting

See energy saving bulbs in a new light
In your mind's eye think of an energy saving bulb, is it bulky and oddly shaped? Maybe giving off a cold, harsh light?

If so, be prepared to think again. There are now more good reasons than ever to buy energy saving lightbulbs. Here are some of the best.

Advances in technology mean that energy saving lightbulbs are now available in a wide variety of fittings, shapes and sizes.

These range from stick shaped bulbs candle shaped varieties, with small or medium screw and bayonet fittings.

The choice really is yours. Nowadays, there are even halogen and dimmable energy saving bulbs on the market.

And thanks to the invention of 'soft tone' bulbs, you can enjoy a warm glow rather than a cold light.

They're just as bright as normal bulbs, but better for the environment...
Simple fact: energy saving lightbulbs use less electricity than standard bulbs to do the same job. In turn, using less energy like electricity means that our homes produce less carbon dioxide: one of the main causes of climate change.

So, why not do your bit to help fight climate change? Next time you need a bulb, buy an energy saving one.

You can now buy low energy light fittings which will only take low energy lightbulbs. These use a ballast or transformer fitted into the base of the light fitting. It controls the supply of electricity to the bulb, allowing for a small surge of power for a millisecond to light the bulb and then reducing the electricity flow to a very low level.

Low energy fittings require a pin based energy saving bulb. This is a different fitting to a conventional bulb but will ensure that the bulbs you buy in future will always save energy, money and the environment.

2. Benefits

Depending on how long your lights are in use every day, just one energy saving lightbulb could save you on average around £3 a year, and up to £6 for brighter bulbs or those used for more hours a day. And because it will last up to 10 times longer than a standard bulb, it could save you around £45 before it needs replacing.

Fit all the lights in your house with energy saving bulbs and you could save around £50 a year and £675 over the lifetime of all of the bulbs.

And before you ask, these savings take into account the higher cost of energy saving lightbulbs. These days, the average price is around £2 a bulb, so you'll usually recoup the extra outlay within a year .

Energy saving light bulbs use a fifth to a quarter of the electricity of ordinary bulbs to generate the same amount of light. So where you'd normally use a 60W bulb, you'll only need a 13-18W energy saving recommended equivalent.

Ordinary bulbs	Energy saving equivalent
25W	6W
40W	8-11W
60W	13-18W
100W	20-25W

3. Suitability - are they suitable for my home?

Don't stay in the dark
You're bound to still have some questions about energy saving lightbulbs. We've answered some of the most common queries - and shattered several popular myths along the way.

Click here to see the frequently asked questions about energy saving lighting

4. What to look for when buying energy saving lightbulbs

When you're shopping for energy saving lightbulbs, look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo. It's the quick and easy way to spot the most energy efficient products on the market.

If a lightbulb carries the logo, it means it's met the strict energy efficiency criteria set by the Energy Saving Trust - and has been independently tested by an independent accredited test house.

As well as energy consumption, criteria for lightbulbs cover how long they should last, quality of light, packaging information and safety. The criteria are reviewed on a regular basis and standards are constantly being raised to make sure that energy saving bulbs keep on improving in terms of efficiency and performance.

So, by buying an Energy Saving Recommended bulb, you can be sure it will not only save energy but also be of the highest quality.

Find Energy Saving Recommended lightbulbs

5. Help and support - Get more advice on energy efficiency

Call your local Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512 012 for free, impartial advice on making your home more energy efficient. Click here to find out more about our local advice centres.

Case study - find out how the Sheridans have seen the light.

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