Fluorescent Lighting

When selecting fluorescent fixtures for your home try to select those that have instant start electronic ballasts. This will ensure that the fluorescent lamp(s) will turn on without flickering, that the fixture will not give off much heat, and that the ballast will not emit an annoying humming sound.

Although fluorescent and compact fluorescent lamps cost a bit more than incandescent bulbs, they pay for themselves by saving energy over their lifetime. And, now also available are dimmable fluorescent light bulbs, which operate much like incandescent fixtures.