Think energy-efficient lighting and the words "compact fluorescent light (CFL)" probably come to mind. In fact, if every American home replaced just one light bulb with a CFL, the nation would save over $700 million in annual energy costs and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of 800,000 cars.
How CFLs Work
Unlike regular or incandescent bulbs, CFLs don't heat a filament inside the bulb to produce light. Instead, they contain a gas that produces invisible ultraviolet (UV) light when it comes in contact with electricity. When the UV lights hits the white coating inside the bulb, the coating changes the UV light into visible light. Because they don't use heat to create light, CFLs are 4-6 times more efficient. A 15-watt CFL bulb produces the same amount of light as a 60-watt regular incandescent bulb.
Compact fluorescents use 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs. While they're more expensive, they're coming down in price and will save money in energy use over their lifetime. Speaking of lifetimes, because they last up to 10 times longer, they reduce garbage both in the number of bulbs used and in packaging. Finally, because CFLs produce about 75% less heat than standard bulbs, they're generally safer to operate and don't heat up the house in summer, reducing cooling costs.
When buying CFLs, look for Energy Star qualified bulbs to be sure of getting the most energy-efficient ones.
Do's and don'ts to Extend the Life of CFLs
- Use special dimming CFLS with a dimmer switch – using a regular CFL shortens its life.
- While a regular CLF works on a 3-way lamp without damaging the bulb, it will only work in the middle setting. Buy special 3-way CFLs for full use.
- Use CFLs where the light will be on for at least 15 minutes. Turning them on and off frequently shortens their lifespan
- Use CLFs in enclosed light fixtures only if the fixture is not totally recessed and enclosed. Don't use them in a ceiling can light with a cover over the bulb.
- Use a CLF specifically designed for ceiling fans as the vibrations can cause regular CFLs to fail.
- CFLs can be used near electronic equipment such as radios, TVs, wireless telephones and remote controls. On rare occasions, these devices might interpret the infrared light coming from the CFL as a signal and cause them to malfunction. Either move the bulb further away or plug it into a different outlet.
How to Dispose of CLFs Properly
Although CFLs contain an average of 5 milligrams of mercury sealed within the bulb, that's much less that either older home thermometers or manual thermostats. However, it does mean CFLs should be disposed of properly.
- Check with local government for recycling options and disposal guidelines.
- Or check out green sites to find options based on zip code.
- Some stores such as IKEA take back used CFLs for proper disposal.
- Never send a CFL or other mercury containing product to an incinerator.
Sources
- Energystar.gov. "Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs." (accessed June 9, 2010)
- Earth911.org. "Find Recycling Centers." (accessed June 9, 2010)
Harriet Cooper - Harriet Cooper writes for magazines, newspapers and websites on health, nutrition, the environment, ESL, cats and feng shui.
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