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Question:
I want to save money on energy costs by installing
compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs but I have
heard that they provide more harsh-white light than
incandescent...and some of my bulbs need to be dimmable.
Can I find specialty CFL's to meet my needs?
Answer:
Yes, there are quite a few specialty CFL bulbs available
though not all retail stores carry them. For example,
you can find the following specialty CFL's:
- dimmable
- softer-warmer light (choose approx 2700k temp
bulbs)
- 3-way
- full-spectrum light
- indoor & outdoor floods
There are many different manufacturers and quality
levels so consider looking for a bulb that is labeled
Energy Star as these must meet certain
quality characteristics
(see http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls).
BAC uses several internet sellers to acquire
specialty (and non-specialty) CFLs but keep in mind
you can likely find others by searching the internet
further:
xcel energy (wholesale prices):
https://www.compactoffer.com/product_listing.cfm?pc_id=xcel
http://www.buylighting.com/
... great selection at fair prices.
CAUTION: CFL's contain mercury and should
NOT be thrown in your trash. Please recycle these
bulbs.

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