Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are one of the smartest investments you can make.

CFLs use at least 66 per cent less electricity than standard bulbs and last up to eight times longer.

Each CFL can save you about $35 in electricity costs over the lifetime of the bulb.

You could save over $50 a year by simply replacing five old bulbs with energy-efficient CFLs.

Always look for the ENERGY STAR® logo when buying CFLs. This symbol guarantees your CFLs have met strict specifications for quality, long life, brightness and electricity savings.

CFLs come in a variety of colour tones, from warm and yellowish to cool and bluish-white. Unless the packaging says "cool" or "daylight," your bulbs will have a yellowy tone.

When shopping for CFLs, remember that specialty bulbs are required for dimmer switches and tri-lights. Check the packaging to make sure the bulb is designed for your fixture. Specialty CFLs are also available for motion sensors, photocells, torchiere floor lamps and enclosed fixtures.

Don't wait for your old incandescent bulbs to burn out, replace them with CFLs right away and start saving now.