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Dulley's Money-Saving Tip #1035

Clean off light bulbs for more light

(related column topic links - 936)

A dusty and dirty light bulb emits 20% less light than a clean light bulb. This means that you might not have to switch on a second light and you will save the extra electricity. Make sure that the bulb is cool enough to comfortably touch before wiping it off with a damp rag. Otherwise, the thermal shock may break the glass bulb. The bulb will also last longer because there is less heat buildup inside the bulb.

Also, vacuum off the lamp shade. I can slowly collect dust and gradually block some of the light from shining through it. Together, these tips will save about $5 per lamp per year in electricity savings. That is not a bad return for a minute of work.