What many consumers don’t know is that compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) come in different shades of white. Which white they pick affects how bright a room is regardless of the bulb’s wattage. One of the biggest complaints Ameren Missouri hears from customers about using CFLs is that the color seems “off” or seniors often say they can’t read using CFLs.
“We want customers to benefit from our discounted CFL programs,” says Cara Dolly, program manager, Ameren Missouri Energy Efficiency Programs. “Making sure they buy a bulb that has the correct color and wattage will help ensure they have a positive experience instead of being disappointed.”
The easiest way to remember which ENERGY STAR®-qualified CFL to buy is to think of the color and purpose. Color is measured in what’s called KELVIN (K). It’s sometimes marked on packaging, but not always. What is on the package and what customers should look for is one of the following colors:
• Warm white or soft white (2700K-3000K) is standard light similar to an incandescent bulb. These bulbs have more of a yellowish tint. If a package isn’t labeled, it’s usually this color.
• Cool or Bright White (3500K-4100K) light is good for work areas like the kitchen, bathroom, hobby table and garages. 3500K is best for applying make-up and color-coordinating clothes.
• Daylight or Natural (5000K-6500K) bulbs give off bright light that is also good for reading and detail-oriented activities. These bulbs appear more vibrant and blue.
Now that you understand color, also pick a bulb with enough wattage to meet your needs.
To learn more about energy efficient lighting and other programs in Missouri, visit Uefficiency.com.
Contacts: Lisa Manzo, 314.554.6157; Mike Cleary, 573.681.7137, mcleary@ameren.com
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Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than a century, and our electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. We serve 1.2 million electric and 127,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. Our mission is to meet their energy needs in a safe, reliable, efficient and environmentally responsible manner. Our service area covers 57 counties and 500 towns, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit AmerenMissouri.com.