Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Video

In this video, Mark Donovan of HomeAdditionPlus.com discusses the energy and costs benefits of using compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL Bulbs).

EnergyStar qualified Compact Fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs can save you a bundle on your home electricity bills and the long term cost of buying light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs last 10 times longer and use 75% less energy than traditional incandescent light bulbs. Each compact fluorescent light bulb can save you up to $35 on your electricity bills over the life of the bulb.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs radiate energy in a different light spectrum compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and consequently the shades of light differed significantly in earlier CFL bulbs. However, manufacturers of Compact fluorescent light bulbs have made significant advances in CFL technology in recent years. Today’s compact fluorescent light bulbs are available in many shapes, sizes and shades of light and the light they produce now mimic the traditional incandescent lamps very similarly. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are best for applications where there is air flow, for example with open light fixtures and lamps. There are also special compact fluorescent light bulbs that can be used with special dimmer switches.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs have also come down in recent years with unit pricing starting as low as just a few dollars.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs do contain a small amount of Mercury in them, approximately a few milligrams per bulb. Consequently they have to be properly recycled and disposed of. Also, if a bulb is broken specific steps need to be taken for clean-up. You can learn more about compact fluorescent light bulbs at www.energystar.gov.

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb Clean Up procedures in Case of Breakage

• Open a window and Leave the room for a minimum of 15 minutes.
• Shut off central forced air heating/cooling system if you have one.
• Scoop up glass and powder using stiff paper of cardboard and place in a glass jar with a metal lid.
• Use sticky tape to pick up remaining pieces
• If a vacuum is necessary use it only after doing the previous steps and then remove the vacuum bag, or canister contents, and put it in a sealed plastic bag.
• If the CFL bulb breaks over clothing, bedding or other soft materials put the material in a sealed plastic bag and throw it away. Do not attempt to wash them as it will contaminate the washing machine and dryer.
• All clean up material should be put into a sealed plastic bag and kept outside until taken to a trash transfer/recycling station.