CFLs come in a variety of sizes; some are small enough to fit in decorative lighting fixtures and outdoor lamps.
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Energy-efficient fluorescent light bulbs, also known as compact fluorescent lamps, use much less energy than incandescent light bulbs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if each home replaced a single regular bulb with a CFL bulb, the nation would save approximately $600 million in energy costs and enough energy to illuminate 3 million homes for 12 months. This single action would also prevent the release of 9 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere, the near equivalent of taking 800,000 cars off the road. (See References 2)
Components
Compact fluorescent light bulbs emit light as an electrical current passes through argon and mercury vapors, which produce invisible ultraviolet light. In response, this activates a fluorescent material called phosphor that coats the inside of the bulb's tube. This material is what casts visible light. The ballasts, which is contained in the plastic base of the bulb, regulates the flow of electrical current. Original CFL bulbs' ballasts were magnetic, and sometimes produced a buzzing or humming sound. To eliminate this noise, the majority of CFL bulbs made today are fitted with electronic ballasts. All CFL bulbs rated under the Energy Star program governed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have electronic ballasts. (See References 1)
Energy Savings
Although CFLs require a burst of energy to light them, according to the DOE, these bulbs use 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs once the electrical current begins to flow (see References 1). They also last 10 times longer (see References 2). Because CFL bulbs also generate 75 percent less heat than regular light bulbs, their use results in lower home cooling costs (see References 2). Overall, the agency says you can expect to save $40 in electricity costs over the lifetime of each CFL bulb (see References 2).
Regulatory Initiatives
The 2007 Energy Independence and Security Act, also known as the Energy Bill, stipulates that all light bulbs must be 30 percent more energy efficient than incandescent light bulbs by 2012 for 100-watt bulbs and by 2014 for 40-watt bulbs. All bulbs will be required to be at least 70 percent more efficient by 2020. Although some interpret this law to mean that people can no longer use incandescent light bulbs by these dates, the law does not apply to bulbs in use or in storage. The DOE also recognizes that it's possible that a new generation of incandescent bulbs might be 30 percent more efficient by the 2012 deadline. In addition, some types of incandescent bulbs are exempt from this law, such as plant grow lights, bug lights, appliance bulbs and 3-way bulbs. (See References 3)
Making the Switch
When shopping for compact fluorescent light bulbs, first look for the Energy Star logo, which indicates that the product conforms to the U.S. government's energy-efficiency performance standards. Also, think in terms of lumens, which measures minimum light output; wattage refers strictly to energy consumption and tells you nothing about how bright the bulb will be. A 13-watt CFL bulb is equivalent to a 60-watt incandescent bulb; both produce 800 lumens of light. (See References 4)
Karyn Maier has been a full-time freelance writer since 1992 specializing in health, particularly botanical therapies. She has written many feature articles and columns for numerous national magazines, including "Better Nutrition," "Your Health" and "Mother Earth News," and she has authored numerous natural health-related books currently published in four languages. She also has more than 10 years' experience as a legal assistant.
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