CFL Light Bulbs Explained
CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lights) are simply miniature versions of full-sized fluorescents. They screw into standard lamp sockets, and give off light that looks similar to the common incandescent bulbs – nothing like the fluorescent lighting we associate with factories and schools.
What are the benefits of CFL lighting?
CFL Lighting is:
- 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 CFLs use one-third the electricity and last up to 10 times as long as incandescents. A single 18 Watt CFL used in the place of a 75 Watt incandescent will save you about 570 kW over its lifetime.
- 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. Saving electricity reduces CO2 emissions, sulphur oxide and high-level nuclear waste.
- 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 colour and warmth. New electronically ballasted 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 outdoor lights, as well as lights with dimmer switches.
How to choose your CFL bulbs?
CFLs come in many shapes and sizes. When purchasing CFLs, as your sales consultant at Selective Lighting for recommendations and consider the following:
- Light Quality
Choose your preferred light quality. CFL bulbs have a Kelvin or ‘K’ number listed on the packaging. CFLs with K numbers between 2700 – 3000 give a soft bright light like incandescents. CFLs with K numbers between 3500 – 6000 give off a bright light. As you up the K number scale, the light gets bluish and closer to daylight.
e.g.
Approximately 2700 K = Warm White (looks just like incandescent)
Approximately 5000 K = Cool White (white/blue, bright light)
- Lumens
Match lumens to the incandescent bulb being replaced. Lumens indicate the amount of light generated.
- Shape
CFLs are available in a variety of shapes to fit a range of lamps and lighting fixtures. (See below for the most popular CFL shapes.)
What CFL bulb models are available?
 | Standard Lamps
These are regular CFL spiral lamps which are placed inside a dome cover and fitted with a standard base which fits common lamp sockets. They are designed to give the appearance of the traditional light bulb for consumers looking for the more familiar light bulb appearance. The glass diffuser provides a quality of light similar to the “soft white” type of incandescent bulb. |
 | Globe Lamps
This shape is commonly used in bathroom vanity mirrors or open hanging lamps, and bare bulb applications. Bathroom vanities usually require multiple bulbs, which generate radiant heat. The CFL globe will reduce this heat build up while saving energy. The glass diffuser provides a soft-white light. |
Does CFL lighting have any limitations?
Although CFLs are an excellent source of energy-efficient lighting, they are not always the best choice for all lighting applications. Click on the limitations to consider below to learn more:
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 incandescents or LED bulbs.
Dimmers:
Dimmable CFLs are available for lights using a dimmer switch, but check the packaging; not all CFLs can be used on dimmer switches. Using a regular CFL with a dimmer can shorten the bulb’s life span.
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.
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.
Heat:
The principle reason for reduced lifespan of CFLs is heat. CFLs exhibit shorter lifespans in light fixtures and sockets where there is low air flow and heat build up, such as recessed lighting. For these types of sockets, it is recommended to use specially designed CFLs for recessed lighting or LEDs.
What safety tips can you recommend when using CFL bulbs?
CFLs are perfectly safe around your home. However, all CFLs contain a tiny amount (about 5 mg) of Mercury. That’s 100 times less than the amount of mercury in a silver tooth filling. While that does not pose a health risk, if you added up a few thousand old CFLs you might accumulate a significant amount of mercury. This is why it is important to dispose of old CFLs in a safe, responsible manner.
- Handling a Broken CFL Bulb:
The mercury in CFLs poses no threat when in the bulb, but – if you break one:
- Open a window and leave the room for 15 minutes or more.
- Use a wet rag to clean it up and put all of the pieces, and the rag, into a plastic bag.
- Place all materials in a second, sealed plastic bag.
- Wash your hands.
- Safe Disposal of old CFL Bulbs:
To avoid creating any risk to the environment, please follow these tips when discarding used CFL bulb:
- Take care not to break the lamps.
- Always store used CFLs in a safe place, in a non-breakable container or plastic bag, until they may be disposed of safely.
- Drop off old CFLs at participating retailers who offer a take-back service.
- Use municipal collection services for hazardous waste, if these are available in your area.
- Only dispose of CFLs with your general household garbage as a last resort. If you do, wrap the bulb in newspaper and place it in a plastic bag to reduce the risk of breakage, contamination of recyclable waste, and physical contact with yourself and waste removal staff.
