Energy Star Lighting: FAQs
What’s the difference between an ENERGY STAR fixture and a standard fixture (same style/size) using ENERGY STAR CFLs? Is the savings the same if I purchase regular fixtures and use all CFLs?
The energy savings would be the same if you used either an ENERGY STAR qualified light fixture or a standard light fixture with ENERGY STAR qualified “screw-in” compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). However, ENERGY STAR qualified fixtures come with pin-based CFLs that are required to last at least 10,000 hours (~9 years, assuming 3 hours/day). ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs are required to last at least 6,000 hours. So, you should save some money on bulbs with ENERGY STAR qualified fixtures. Replacement pin-based CFL bulbs can be found at most hardware or home improvement centers, at lighting showrooms, and online retailers.
In addition, ENERGY STAR qualified fixtures are designed around the light source, including proper fit, color, wattage, and durability. If special features, like a dimmer, are important to you it would be safer to buy an ENERGY STAR qualified light fixture, so you know it works with CFLs. Some standard fixtures with special features won't work well with all CFLs. For example, if you have a standard fixture that has a dimmer, you will need to purchase a CFL that is made to work with a dimmer.
I want to start replacing my "regular" (incandescent) light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). Should I throw away my incandescent bulbs now or wait until they burn out?
Replacing incandescent bulbs with ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs right away, rather than waiting until they burn out is beneficial because you can begin to enjoy the energy savings right away. By replacing your home’s five most frequently used light fixtures or the bulbs in them with ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs can save you more than $65 each year. ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs use 75% less energy while providing the same amount of light.
You can save the incandescent bulbs for your fixtures where CFLs aren’t suitable (like in a closet where the light would only be on for a few minutes at a time, or for a dimmable fixture if you don't have a dimmable CFL). CFLs provide the most savings in applications where the light is on for at least two hours a day.
How should I use my ceiling fan?
In the summer, run the blades downward to create a cool breeze. If you raise your thermostat by only two degrees and use your ceiling fan, you can lower air conditioning costs by up to 14% over the course of the cooling season. And remember: Ceiling fans cool only people, not the room, so when you leave the room, turn the ceiling fan off.
In the winter, your ceiling fan can help improve your comfort. Most fans have a switch that allows you to reverse the motor and operate the ceiling fan at a low speed in the opposite direction. This produces a gentle updraft, which forces warm air near the ceiling down into the living space.
Do ENERGY STAR qualified light fixtures come with a warranty?
Yes! ENERGY STAR partner manufacturers provide a 2-year warranty on their qualified lighting fixtures.
Can Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) be used in recessed cans, outdoor lights, or track lighting?
Yes! Always read the packaging of the CFL to be sure of its proper application, but there are a wide variety of ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs that are designed for use in most fixtures in your home, including recessed cans, outdoor lights, and track lighting. Use our Advanced Product Search to find CFLs with the features you want.
ENERGY SAVING QUICK TIP!
Remember to always turn off your lights when leaving a room.