G R A N T H A M S T E WA R D S H I P G R O U P

COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHTS

Energy Efficiency Workshop

Bes t pla c es t o u s e C o m pa ct Fl uo r e s c e nt Li g ht s (CFLs) in

th e h o me
   * Consider starting with the light fixtures you use most, but avoid in places where breakage is likely to occur.
You're better off choosing CFLs for ceiling fixtures than for table lamps in high-traffic areas, for example.
   * Don't use CFL bulbs in places where mercury exposure would be especially problematic (in children's rooms) or
clean-up would be difficult (near valuable rugs).
   * It takes about 10 to 15 minutes for CFLs reach their optimum light and energy efficiency so avoid using them in
spots that you light for only a few minutes (such as closets) or in places that need to be well lit immediately
for safety reasons (such as stairways).

Incan d e sc e n t C F L Wa t t a g e
Watt ag e
25 5
50 9
60 15
75 20
100 25
120 28
150 39
Table 1. Comparable Watta ge of CFL s a nd
Incande sc ents

  25- Wat t 1 0 0 - Wa t t
C o mp a c t Inc a n d e s c e n t
Fl uores cent
Cost of Lamps 3 1
Lamp Life 1,667 days (4.5 years) 167 days
Annual Energy Cost 6 25
Lamps Replaced in 0 10
4.5 years
Total Cost 29 134
Savings Over Lamp 105 0
Life
Table 2. Cost Compari sons be twee n CF Ls
and I ncandescents

Hal o g e n Li g hts
Halogen lights were once considered the lighting of the
future. Although some halogens use up to 20 percent less
energy than incandescent lights and last anywhere from
2,000 to 6,000 hours, they are far less efficient than
compact fluorescents. In addition halogens burn hotter
than other lights, so keep them at least six inches away
from all flammable materials.

The After- l if e o f C F L s
CFLs contain mercury and therefore SHOULD NOT be thrown in the trash or vacuumed when broken. If a CFL bulb
breaks, air out the room and use tape to pick up broken pieces. Refer to this fact sheet for more detailed information:

http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/Fact_Sheet_Mercury.pdf
Sources: http://www.energysavers.gov/; http://www.energystar.gov; http://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,1607,7-135-3585_30068_30172-90215--,00.html; http://www.energy.ca.gov/
efficiency/lighting/index.html