Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL's) provide an efficient and cheap alternative to incandescent light bulbs
With the upcoming mandates for energy efficient lighting, I thought I would spend a moment to talk about the advantages and disadvantages to the highly efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are designed to use up to 75% less energy than incandescent light bulbs while offering the same amount of light. They work by passing an electrical current through a mixture of argon and mercury which then emits ultraviolet light. This UV light excites a fluorescent coating that then emits the visible light we are able to see. Because of this technology, CFL bulbs require fewer watts of energy than incandescent bulbs to operate at the same luminosity. For example, a 40-watt incandescent bulb emits the same amount of light as an 11-14 watt CFL. The lifespan of a CFL varies depending on how frequently it is turned on/off and how much air flow is around the bulb, but on average, they last 6,000-15,000 hours (about ten times as long as incandescent bulbs).
CFLs come in a variety of shapes and styles. The most popular style is the spiral CFL, but if you are looking to replace bulbs that will be visible or simply don’t like the look of the spiral bulb, there are A-shape and globe options available as well. CFLs also come in 3-way and dimmable forms.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if every home in America were to replace just one incandescent bulb with an Energy Star rated CFL, we would be able to collectively save $700 million in energy costs while preventing 9 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions every year. That’s the equivalent of 800,000 cars!
While CFLs are slightly more to purchase than incandescent bulbs ($2-15 as opposed to $0.25-$5), they can save as much as $30 over the life of the bulb in reduced energy costs. The average payback period is six months.
Because CFLs contain trace amounts of mercury (about 4 mg per bulb), it is important to take precautions when handling them. When installing, be sure and hold the base not the glass to screw them in to prevent breaking. If a bulb does break, follow the EPA’s guidelines for proper clean-up to avoid negative effects. When a CFL bulb burns out, it must be recycled at a designated recycling center. For a list of recycling
locations near you, visit www.earth911.com. Note that no mercury is emitted unless the bulb breaks. Regular use will not result in exposure to
mercury.
Most photocells, motion sensors, electronic timers, and some sockets are incompatible with CFLs. Be sure and check manufacturing and packaging labels before purchasing.
Replacing your incandescent bulbs with CFLs is one of the easiest ways to save energy. CFLs are available at most home improvement stores and general retailers and can easily be installed without the help of a professional. Remember to hold the bulb by the base and not the glass when installing.
Recent Comments