Spring Break
Bulbs cast new light on Thompson Hall's energy bill
Sarah Cash
Issue date: 2/20/08 Section: News
For the past three to four years, old light bulbs in public areas such as Thompson's front lobby have been phased out. Since each fluorescent bulb cost $2.74, the massive changeover was delayed until University Housing and Dining Service's operating budget could handle the $14,000 bill. Students will not see any increase in fees to reflect the change because the funds were taken from the operating budget which holds back some funds every year, according to Bierman.
By next school year, all but one residence hall will have its incandescent light bulbs phased out; the remaining hall will use up incandescent bulbs still in stock. Bierman said he will be pleased if the CFLs last three years since incandescent bulbs last less than one year.
The other difference between bulbs is the light color: the new bulbs produce a bright white light, while the old offer a yellow light. However, some students say they can hardly tell a difference between the two bulbs.
"The rooms are not necessarily bright, there isn't really a fluorescent look to it - the light seems the same as the old light bulbs," said Ben Haydem, freshman law enforcement and justice administration major and Thompson resident.
Although Haydem said he had not realized what type of bulb was being used, he thought the changeover was a positive move.
"I definitely think it's a great thing that we can use these light bulbs," Haydem said. "If it was just one house you couldn't see the big picture, but because Thompson uses so much energy, you can really see a difference."
By next school year, all but one residence hall will have its incandescent light bulbs phased out; the remaining hall will use up incandescent bulbs still in stock. Bierman said he will be pleased if the CFLs last three years since incandescent bulbs last less than one year.
The other difference between bulbs is the light color: the new bulbs produce a bright white light, while the old offer a yellow light. However, some students say they can hardly tell a difference between the two bulbs.
"The rooms are not necessarily bright, there isn't really a fluorescent look to it - the light seems the same as the old light bulbs," said Ben Haydem, freshman law enforcement and justice administration major and Thompson resident.
Although Haydem said he had not realized what type of bulb was being used, he thought the changeover was a positive move.
"I definitely think it's a great thing that we can use these light bulbs," Haydem said. "If it was just one house you couldn't see the big picture, but because Thompson uses so much energy, you can really see a difference."
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