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Make the switch to CFLs
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CFL stands for compact fluorescent lamp. It is a small fluorescent light bulb that uses 75% less energy than a traditional incandescent bulb and can be screwed into a regular light socket. The following are some common questions and answers about CFLs:
How to choose a CFL
Finding a CFL that will put out the same amount of light as your current incandescent bulb is fairly easy. Manufacturers include product equivalency information on the packaging to help consumers choose a bulb that produces enough light. For example, if you are looking for a CFL to replace a 60-watt incandescent, look for words like “Soft White 60” or “60 Watt Replacement” on the packaging.
You can also refer to Energy Star charts that compare wattages of CFLs and traditional bulbs.
CFLs labeled “warm white” or “soft white” produce light like typical incandescent light bulbs. CFLs that have a cooler color (similar to bright white incandescent bulbs) are usually labeled “bright white” or “daylight” on the product packaging.
CFLs with the Energy Star labeling have passed extensive testing to ensure they produce only the highest quality light.
Can I use CFLs everywhere?
CFLs can be used just about everywhere. Be sure to read the packaging to be sure of proper application. There are a wide variety of Energy Star CFLs that are designed for use in most fixtures, including recessed cans, outdoor lights, and track lighting.
Certain CFLs are even made to work on dimmer switches. But be sure to check the fine print on the back of the packaging for the proper applications to see if there are any restrictions on the product’s use. Dimming a CFL that is not designed to work with a dimmer switch can shorten its life significantly.
Some CFLs are slow to turn on
By choosing an ENERGY STAR qualified CFL, you are assured that it will turn on in less than a second, and reach at least 80 percent of full light output within 3 minutes. If the CFL doesn’t have the Energy Star label, both start time and warm-up time could be much longer.
Also, many lighting manufacturers offer “instant on” CFLs. Some spiral and mini-spiral products incorporate “instant-on” technology in their products and display this feature prominently on the product packaging. Some covered or reflector CFLs actually do take longer to warm-up, but the tradeoff is that they last longer than regular CFLs. Energy Star CFL products that are covered (such as incandescent shaped, reflectors, globes and candles) have a higher operating temperature so they require a compound called amalgam to perform properly. This compound actually increases the bulb life and the light output. The one tradeoff is that these CFLs cannot offer “instant full brightness” The CFL will turn on, but may take up to three minutes to warm up to reach full light output.
Where to buy them
CFLs are available at your local hardware store, the big box stores, and some grocery stores.
Disposal
Because CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends that consumers look for local recycling options. According to the agency’s Web site, EPA is working with CFL manufacturers and major U.S. retailers to expand recycling and disposal options. At this point, there are no recycling programs available in the Chelan County area for CFLs. Local officials do recognize the need, however, and are working on solutions.
EPA recommends that used CFLs be sealed in two plastic bags and placed in the outdoor trash, or other protected outside location, for the next normal trash collection. CFLs should not be disposed of in an incinerator.
Excerpted from the Energy Star Web site
Related links
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (comprehensive information) - Energy Star