Lower your utility bills

Your Path to Energy Savings
By Shawn Lindabury and Sharon Anderson, Special to The Ithaca Journal
November 1, 2010

Does the cost of heating your home cut into your family's budget?  You can do more than turn down the thermostat and shiver. This new column, "Get on the path to energy savings" will provide weekly tips on how to make your home comfortable while reducing your energy bills.  You'll find low and no cost techniques, better options than buying new windows, how to upgrade your home or business in ways that pay off over time, and much more. After all, why pay more than necessary?

An easy and inexpensive way to get on the energy savings path is to install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).  CFLs are an energy saving alternative to regular (incandescent) light bulbs that use 75% less electricity and last 10 times as long.  Although it costs more initially, a CFL can save over $50 in electricity costs over the bulb's lifetime and will pay for itself in 6 months.

CFLs have improved dramatically over the past few years.  They are available in various sizes and color temperatures (soft warm light vs cooler white light).  There are CFLs that fit any light fixture and are capable of dimming, three-way functionality, and outdoor use.  Visit ccetompkins.org/energy for tips on finding a CFL to meet your needs.

Like all fluorescent bulbs, CFLs contain a small amount of mercury and should be brought to a local recycling center for disposal.  The Recycling and Solid Waste Center, Home Depot, and Lowes accept CFLs for recycling free of charge.

Cooperative Extension's Lighten Up Tompkins event gave away 5,000 free compact fluorescent light bulbs along with energy savings materials that can help save households 20% on their energy bills.  Didn't get a bag at your door? Call 272-2292 or visit ccetompkins.org/energy to request a free energy bag and get on the path to energy savings.

Last Updated: July 20, 2011