Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs (CFLs): Go Green, Save Money
What are Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs? (CFLs)
CFLs are simply miniature versions of full-sized fluorescents. They screw into standard lamp sockets, and give off light that looks just like the common incandescent bulbs - not like the fluorescent lighting we associate with factories and schools.
How they work
Incandescent light bulbs use electricity to heat a filament to a white-hot state, producing light. Yet 90 percent of the energy used is wasted as heat, according to General Electric’s Web site.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs use electricity to excite gas within a glass tube. The gas fluoresces, producing ultraviolet light which the human eye cannot see. This UV light then reacts with mercury and a phosphorescent chemical compound inside the tube to create visible light.
Advantages of CFLs
Efficient
CFLs are four times more efficient and last up to 10 times longer than incandescents. A 22 watt CFL has about the same light output as a 100 watt incandescent. CFLs use 50 - 80% less energy than incandescents.
Less Expensive
Although initially more expensive, you save money in the long run. Because CFL bulbs do not use heat as the lighting mechanism, less energy is spent to create an equivalent amount of light. They use less than one-third the electricity of incandescent bulbs of equivalent brightness and last up to nine years. A single 18 watt CFL used in place of a 75 watt incandescent will save about 570 kWh over its lifetime. At 8 cents per kWh, that equates to a $45 savings.
Reduces Air and Water Pollution
Replacing a single incandescent bulb with a CFL will keep a half-ton of CO2 out of the atmosphere over the life of the bulb. This decreased demand for electricity reduces the need for electrical generation, which environmentalists point out reduces emissions from coal-fired plants. If everyone in the U.S. used energy-efficient lighting, we could retire 90 average size power plants. Saving electricity reduces CO2 emissions, sulfur oxide and high-level nuclear waste.
High-Quality Light
Newer CFLs give a warm, inviting light instead of the “cool white” light of older fluorescents. They use rare earth phosphors for excellent color and warmth. New CFLs don’t flicker or hum.
Versatile
CFLs can be applied nearly anywhere that incandescent lights are used. Energy-efficient CFLs can be used in recessed fixtures, table lamps, track lighting, ceiling fixtures and porchlights. 3-way CFLs are also now available for lamps with 3-way settings. Dimmable CFLs are also available for lights using a dimmer switch.
Drawbacks to CFLs
Although CFLs are an excellent source of energy-efficient lighting, they are not always the best choice for all lighting applications and have their disadvantages. Here are a few limitations to consider:
On/Off cycling
CFLs are sensitive to frequent on/off cycling. Their rated lifetimes of 10,000 hours are reduced in applications where the light is switched on and off very often. Closets and other places where lights are needed for brief illumination should use incandescent or LED bulbs.
Dimmers
Dimmable CFLs are available for lights using a dimmer switch, but check the package; not all CFLs can be used on dimmer switches. Using a regular CFL with a dimmer can shorten the bulb life span.
Timers
Most CFLs can be used with a timer, however some timers have parts which are incompatible with CFLs; to check your timer, consult the timer package or manufacturer. Using an incompatible timer can shorten the life of a CFL bulb.
Outdoors
CFLs can be used outdoors, but should be covered or shaded from the elements. Low temperatures may reduce light levels - check the package label to see if the bulb is suited for outdoor use. Most CFLs require a minimum starting temperature of minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit; below that, it’s difficult for the bulb’s reaction process to begin. Other problems in cold temps include reduced light output and a pinkish glow, rather than the desirable “soft white” (actually faintly yellow) color.
Retail lighting
CFLs are not spot lights. Retail store display lighting usually requires narrow focus beams for stronger spot lighting. CFLs are better for area lighting.
Mercury content
CFLs contain small amounts of mercury which is a toxic metal. This metal may be released if the bulb is broken, or during disposal. New CFL bulbs are now available with low-mercury content.
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All in all, due to the lower energy use and cooler operation, compact fluorescent light bulbs do represent an excellent alternative to incandescent light bulbs.
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