Straight fluorescent light tubes are common in large retail outlets, grocery stores and corporate offices, but why not also give them a try in your home?

The bulbs are low-energy alternatives to incandescent light bulbs. They could save homeowners cash in energy consumption and bulb replacements. A line offered by Osram - the Lumilux range - boasts new features like just 3 milligrams of mercury, warm color options and dimmer and sensor capabilities.

The innovative electronic control gears have been designed to ensure optimum operation of the fluorescent lamps without compromising the energy savings. Osram officials say their fluorescent tubes will help reduce electricity costs by 10 percent over the course of their use and that they have an average life of 15,000 hours.

With the new color rendering features offered, why not try these bulbs in your home for ambient house light with industrial savings?

Landlords might also consider switching the hard-to-reach bulbs in tenants' apartments to fluorescent tubes. I can attest to the fact that the traditional bulbs in high-ceiling bathrooms do not seem nearly bright enough when you're trying to get ready in the morning, and I've also gotten used to making nighttime bathroom visits in the dark because of how frequently the bulb blows out.

Not only would a fluorescent tube fix these lack-of-illumination issues, but it might also reduce my electric bills. That would definitely do wonders for my relationship with my landlord.

The Lumilux line of Osram light bulbs is available starting at just $12.45.