Compact fluorescent bulbs are curly-cued loops or tubes of energy-saving illumination, but questions still abound from Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative members about whether they can really save money by switching from conventional incandescent light bulbs.

The answer is a resounding “Yes!” To help educate consumers about the difference, BREC has constructed a light display in the lobby of its Rio Grande headquarters.

On the right side of the display is a power strip fed from an electric meter. Into the sockets are screwed regular 100-watt incandescent bulbs. On the left side is another power strip, connected to a second electric meter. This side of the display features compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) of lower wattage but equivalent lumen capacity.

Each meter measures energy consumption: CFLs versus incandescent bulbs. The comparison is in real-time, and you can actually see the different speeds at which the meters record power use.

CFLs use less energy than standard bulbs to produce the same amount of light. CFLs, miniature versions of the overhead fluorescent tubes used for years in shops and businesses, are proven energy savers, consuming 50-80 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs.

CFLs also last much longer than standard light bulbs. Depending on application and model, a CFL’s lamp life can exceed an incandescent bulb 10 times, or up to 10,000 hours of operation.

Granted, CFLs cost more off the shelf, but these lights pay for themselves in energy savings and longer life. And, CFLs are available in various models to suit individual lighting needs.

The display makes it clear that CFLs cost less to operate. You can see how much slower the meter records energy use on the CFL side. We can also play with wattage types and lumen output.

Several retailers sell CFLs, including Wal-Mart, Sam’s, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and a local business, Garrison Lighting, located on Cora Mill Road (1-877-658-0631). Costs for individual lights range from $2.50 upward, depending on wattage. Larger retailers sell CFLs in sets of three or more.

The next time you’re in the neighborhood, drop by the main BREC office at 4848 State Route 325, south, next to Southwest School, and take a look at our CFL-versus-incandescent bulb comparison.

Next month, the caulk gun quick-draw column I promised will appear. Find out how you can save money by expending just a little time and labor to make your home more energy efficient.