Quality, energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) use less than a third the electricity of incandescent bulbs and last about six to ten times longer. Today's energy-efficient bulbs start instantly with no perceptible flicker or buzz, are much smaller than earlier versions, and offer good light quality. They fit in almost any lamp and can replace incandescents as high as 150 watts. A wide variety of bulbs are available, including dimmable, 3-way, floods, globes and capsules. These bulbs cost a bit more than incandescent bulbs, but they pay for themselves many times over due to energy savings and to the fact that you don't need to replace them as often. They are easy to install and offer immediate savings. For greatest savings, be sure to use them where lights are on the longest.

Learn more about mercury & energy- efficient lights

In addition to CFLs, high-quality energy-saving fluorescent tube-style lights are also available. You can use energy-efficient T-8 tubes with electronic ballasts to replace older, conventional overhead fixtures. Conventional ceiling fixtures for your home can be upgraded to fixtures specifically designed for efficient lights. These efficient fixtures have a built-in ballast and take a pin-based tube. The advantage of this fixture is that, because it contains a ballast, you won't need to pay to replace the ballast when you replace the light. When shopping for fixtures of this type it is highly recommended to choose fixtures that have electronic ballasts as opposed to magnetic ballasts that are known to flicker and hum.

ENERGY STAR qualified products are the finest energy-saving products you can buy. They enable you to:

• Save energy
• Lower your energy bills
• Protect the environment
  

It's a seal of quality granted by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. You'll find it on the top of energy-saving products - from light bulbs and appliances to new homes - from numerous manufacturers, available nationwide.

Find a list of ENERGY STAR retailers in Vermont.

You can also call us, toll-free: 888-921-5990 to find a store near you that sells ENERGY STAR qualified products.

Rebates on ENERGY STAR appliances and lighting

Read about using the EnergyGuide label when shopping for appliances. (PDF)

For top performance, premium features, and energy savings, look for energy-efficient clothes washers, refrigerators, dishwashers, room air conditioners and dehumidifiers that have earned the ENERGY STAR. This mark may appear on the appliance, the packaging or the EnergyGuide label.

Learn more about ENERGY STAR qualified lighting, refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners, ceiling fans, and home office equipment.

Energy Savings Calculators are available to help you calculate how much energy and money you can save with energy-efficient products.