You've heard that compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) conserve lots of energy, but you're hesitant to make the 'switch' because you don't want your home to feel like an office or a hospital with that harsh, overhead glare. However, CFL bulbs are just as versatile and can even look as warm as incandescents.
Benefits of CFLs
- They are 4 times more efficient than incadescents
- They last 10 times longer than incandescents
- CFLs can be used anywhere that an incandescent is used
- Though they cost more upfront, CFLs save you money in the long run - about $45 over a bulb's lifetime
- If everyone in the US switched to CFLs or other energy saving bulbs, we could retire 90 power plants
- New CFLs cast a warm light instead of the cool white they are known for - the lower the Kelvin number, the warmer the light
- Electronic ballasts prevent flickering and humming
- CFLs are available in dimmable and 3-way formats and a wide range of shapes and sizes, including spirals, standard domes, globes and flood lamps
Drawbacks
- Lifetime can be reduced if the bulb is frequently switched on and off
- Timers and dimmers can only be used with compatible bulbs - check before you buy
- When used outdoors, CFLs must be covered to protect them from the elements
- Recessed fixtures can reduce the lifespan of CFLs due to limited airflow
- These bulbs contain small levels of mercury, which can be released when broken - dispose carefully
As you can see, CFLs present many more benefits than they do drawbacks. When your incandescents burn out, consider replacing them with energy efficient CFLs or LEDs.
Now that you know all about CFLs, learn more green building acronyms...