Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

Just about every publication in the media touts the benefits and energy efficiency of the compact fluorescent light. While many articles hype the green-friendly advantages, few actually calculate the compact fluorescent bulbs wattage or watt conversion of an incandescent bulb to a CFL.  These facts and calculations gleaned from the ENERGY STAR site and other compact fluorescent bulb resources shed light on the compact fluorescent bulbs wattage:

• An incandescent light bulb emits 1000 hours of light versus the 10,000 hours that the compact fluorescent light bulb provides.

• One 23-watt compact fluorescent light bulb has the luminosity of 100-watt incandescent bulbs

• Sources at How Stuff Works says that by replacing one single 60-watt bulb with a 13-compact fluorescent bulb, a household can save $30 in energy bills.

Refer to these compact fluorescent bulbs wattage – conversions to replace a CFL with a standard bulb

Compact Fluorescent bulbs wattage Conversions for Standard Bulbs           

10w       =       40w           

13w-15w  =    60w

20w  =            75w

26w-29w  =    100w

38w-42w =     150w

55w    =           250w-300w

• A 23 watt compact fluorescent light bulb outshines and conserves 80 percent more electricity or watts than an average of 100-watt incandescent light bulb.

• The University of Wisconsin Energy Education Program says that the compact fluorescent bulbs wattage of a single 23-watt CFL compact fluorescent bulb conserves 550kWH versus a 75-watt incandescent bulb.

A compact fluorescent bulb’s vibrancy or luminosity is measured in terms of lumens.

• In the color spectrum for compact fluorescent light bulbs, the term “warm” refers to the bulb’s color temperature, which ranges between 2700 and 3000 watts.

• The compact fluorescent bulbs wattage for 9 to 13 watt compact fluorescent bulbs is equivalent to a 40-wattt incandescent bulb, emitting 450 lumens.

• Although the initial cost of a 13-watt compact fluorescent ($3.77)  is more expensive than an incandescent bulb (60-watts), GE Energy Smart™, the savings is recouped in replacement and energy costs—an approximated $34 savings value.

What distinguishes an ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulb from a no name compact fluorescent bulb? The answer is quite simple: safety. While most people are aware that the compact fluorescent bulb is lauded for its energy efficiency and ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, its longevity is often overlooked.  The proceeding facts highlight the most redeeming qualities of the ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulb:

• Beginning in January of 2012, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, also dubbed as the “Energy Bill,” signed on December 18, 2007 mandates that all light bulbs use one-third less energy than today’s incandescent bulbs.

 Did you know that lighting accounts for an estimated 20 percent of the average household’s energy bill?

• When compared with the shelf life of the bulb manufactured in 1990, today’s ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulb has almost double the light span.
• To calculate the wattage of an incandescent lamp divide the total wattage by four for an approximated wattage of the ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent lamp, emitting the same light output.
• The ENERGY STAR website features a CFL calculator that provides consumers with the cost savings for replacing CFLs throughout the home.
• The life ratings of a compact fluorescent bulb are assessed according to specific conditions, whereby the bulb has a three hour burning cycle,
• ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs have an average cost ranging from $2 to $15. On the contrary, these bulbs represent approximately $30 or more per bulb in energy savings, providing a return on the initial investment.
• ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs meet UL safety standards –in that they are self-extinguishing.

To offset electricity costs, replace your incandescent bulbs with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs.

Despite the compact fluorescent bulb’s luminosity, the light source is not for every fixture. From the CFL to the compatibility of the compact fluorescent bulbs dimmer, there are several misconceptions and questions about the compact fluorescent light bulb.

Can we save energy bills by replacing the bulbs in our dimmer with a compact fluorescent light bulb?

Compact fluorescent bulbs have been found to reduce energy costs. However, Compact fluorescent bulbs are not suitable for every lighting option. For instanceGE Longlife Plus Soft White Energy Saving Bulb works specifically for a compact fluorescent bulbs dimmer switch. When CFLs are used with incompatible lamp fixtures, it reduces the bulb’s longevity.

Recently, I bought six compact fluorescent bulbs for my lamp which has an electronic timer. Each time, I place a new CFL in the socket, the compact fluorescent bulb burns out within a week. Does this mean that the CFLs are defective?

Not all compact fluorescent bulbs are compatible for every lamp. Read the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure that the fixture works with a compact fluorescent light bulb. (This is particularly true of the compact fluorescent bulbs dimmer.

I’ve read that compact fluorescent bulbs are inappropriate for enclosed fixtures. Does this mean that all compact fluorescent bulbs are inoperable outdoors?

 

It really depends on the compact fluorescent light bulb. Although certain compact fluorescent bulbs are inappropriate for enclosed fixtures, it depends on the product. Be sure to read the packaging to determine safe use instructions. If the packaging does not include these details, it is not recommended for an enclosed fixture.

Is a CFL ideal for rooms where the light is turned on and off at least 20 times a day?

On the contrary, compact fluorescent bulbs attain the highest efficiency when they are left on for at least 15 minutes or more. Since, they require three minutes to warm up, repetitive light switching shortens its life span. To conserve the light source’s life opt for compact fluorescent bulbs dimmer or CFLS fixtures with pre-settings.

Around the world the compact fluorescent bulbs are in the spotlight, making international headlines. From Australia, Tonopah, Nevada, to Bankladash, CFLs have a luminous future.

While many publications credit Australia for being the first country to ban compact fluorescent light bulbs, Archictect Ideas, contends that dictator, Fidel Castro required Cuban citizens to replace the energy sapping incandescent light with the CFL back in 2005.

In November of 2009, Australia announced an official ban against the incandescent bulb. Although the law has been in effect for more than a year, the objective has been to  phase in the CFL, eliminating 800,000 tons of green house gas emission by the year 2012. The province of Canada plans to implement the same ban in 2012, making it the second country to pursuant to Australia.

[Source: http://architectureideas.info/2010/04/lamp-types-cfl-compact-fluorescent-lamp]

In Tonopah, Nevada, the utility company, V Energy distributes a complimentary 12-pack of compact fluorescent bulbs to some 1200 homes. The program which began in 2003 asserts that it has vended and given roughly 10 million CFLs to present date. 

To spur consumer consumption and reduce up to 400 megawatts of electricity per day Bangladesh plans to distribute compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, exchanging the incandescent bulb.

[Source: http://planetark.org/enviro-news/item/57928]

Nations are not the only entities imposing stringent stipulations on the compact fluorescent light bulb. In an effort to decrease the magnitude of the carbon emissions expended transporting,  the behemoth, Wal-Mart convinced manufacturers to redesign the packaged consumer goods such as such as DVDs, video games, and compact fluorescent

 [Source: http://www.whittierdailynews.com/ci_15140102]

Compact fluorescent bulbs and the LED ( light emitting diode technology) share several illuminating commonalities. However, a recent report by the United State Department of Energy, evaluating the potential energy conservation with the LED threatens the very existence of the compact fluorescent light bulb.

The data and findings indicate that with  widespread use over the next 20-years, the savings would account for  more than $100 billion in energy costs, reducing the need to build two dozen more 24 new large power plants. 

Compact fluorescent bulb compares the differences between an LED and CFL. Here are the facts:

• LEDs tend to be more durable and damage resistant than the compact fluorescent bulb

• Compact fluorescent light bulbs lack the directional light functionality that the LED provides. As LEDs are exceptional for emitting directional light, it tends to offer more flexibility and multiple uses inside and outside of the home:

• Both the LED and CFL suffer from heat sensitivity. Excessive heat is detrimental, ultimately decreasing their life span

• Unlike many CFLs which are not compatible with enclosed light fixtures, the LED has features, which  lighting experts consider to be quite cost-efficient.

• LEDs do not emit the type of heat that a compact fluorescent light bulb does.

• While, frequent shutting on and off shortens the overall lifespan of the CFL, LEDs do not share the same performance issues. In fact, LEDs perform well with constant on and off cycling.

• The technologies for compact fluorescent light bulb and the LEDs are forever being improved

• LEDs performance is diminished by certain light fixtures’ electronics and driver.

For now and fortunately for the CFL, the LED happens to be a costlier replacement cost than the compact fluorescent light bulb.

Although the compact fluorescent bulb is touted as a light source dedicated to emitting energy efficient luminosity, there are three fallacies about the CFL.

Fallacy: The CFL is completely interchangeable

While it may be tempting to replace an incandescent light bulb or controlling mechanism with a compact fluorescent  bulb, it is not recommended. The following objects, which are manufactured for an incandescent light source, are too intricate for the compact fluorescent bulb to manage:

• Dimmers
• Electronic timers
• Motion detectors
• Photo sensors
• Remote light controls
• Touch lamps

Despite the compact fluorescent bulb’s circuitry, which is engineered to save energy, its elaborate components are incompatible with the simple technology made for an incandescent electronic device. Forcing a marriage between a compact fluorescent bulb and an electrical product designed for an incandescent bulb can ultimately abbreviate the product’s lifespan, causing it to malfunction.

However, compact fluorescent bulbs are highly companionable with timers, which are not powered by electricity.

Fallacy:  Humming and rings sounds are a normal drawback of the CFLs.

 

While compact fluorescent light bulbs making buzzing noises used to be the norm, today’s CFLs, manufactured in accordance with ENERGY STAR standards, are generally quiet light fixtures.  When CFLs make humming noises, it is most likely an indication of a loose component in the compact fluorescent bulb.

Fallacy: CFLs are purchased “as is” with defects and all.

ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent bulbs have to adhere to specific guidelines. As a result, CFLs that are used for residential purposes with defects are automatically covered for a minimum of 2-years with a limited warranty. Consumers should be sure to keep the original product and report the faulty light bulb to the manufacturer. In certain cases, the manufacturer may request that the defective bulb be shipped for evaluation. In most cases, the manufacturer will mail a replacement compact fluorescent bulb.

Thanks to Energy Efficiency Program Sponsors (EEPS), the compact fluorescent light has gained recognition in America. For over a decade various CFL advocate groups have implemented specific guidelines to assure the light quality of compact fluorescent light bulbs.

The popularity of the compact light bulb is attributable to Americans, who are concerned about saving the planet and reducing electricity bill costs. ENERGY STAR, a government-sponsored program, recommends certain brands of the compact fluorescent bulb. The standard for the compact fluorescent light bulb is based on the performance and quality of the light.

Dating back to 1999, ENERGY STAR set the benchmarks for the CFL’s minimum lifetime requirements. In 2001, ENERGY STAR implemented packaging guidelines. The warranty requirements were extended to a two-year requirement in 2003.

 In an endeavor to assure for consistency among CFL products, ENERGY STAR updated the manufacturing guidelines. From requiring mercury content limitations and mercury disclosure labeling, ENERGY STAR modified a number of efficiency requirements in

When consumers purchase CFLs, which are ENERGY STAR qualified, there are several benefits. These include:

• Fewer defective compact fluorescent light bulbs
• An extended life
• Enhanced luminosity
• Few to nil premature failures

According to Northwest Energy Efficiency, a market research study from 2007 shows that consumers are overall satisfied with the compact fluorescent bulb. In terms of luminosity, appearance, color and endurance, consumers rated the compact fluorescent light bulb a resounding four out of five points in each category.

The same evaluation indicated that more than 75 percent of American consumers perceive the CFL to offer better light quality than the incandescent light bulb. Although the survey was based on 34,750 American households, the compact fluorescent light bulb  was more popular among people age 18-34 and women

Despite the compact fluorescent  bulb’s significant lighting power,  the ability to use 30 percent less electricity, compared with the incandescent, there are so many interesting facts to know about the compact fluorescent light. While energy conservationists laud the energy efficiency of the compact fluorescent bulb, there are numerous facts pertaining to the CFLs history, benefits and future:

• The dawn of the compact fluorescent light bulb is traceable to the early 1990s.

• Originally, CFLs were too large to for many light fixtures.

• The compact fluorescent light bulb used to be quite expensive. One bulb would cost as much at $25.

• Compared to the sun’s temperature at noon time (5000 K to 6500 K), the “daylight” compact fluorescent light bulb  measure approximately 3400 K.

• In the soft white bulb, CFLs measure a temperature of 2700 K.

• The LED (light emitting diodes) is the compact fluorescent light bulb’s leading contender, exuding more energy efficiency. Nonetheless, since a single LED bulb can cost up to $75, LEDs are far more expensive than the CFL.

• According to Popular Mechanics, the average home is comprised of more than 40 light bulbs. With If the average home replaced all incandescent light bulbs with a compact fluorescent light bulb, the annual savings would account for almost $200.  

• In terms of attaining the best return on the compact fluorescent light bulb, the longer the CFL is on the higher the energy and bulb savings.
• By the year 2012, California plans to ban the sales and distribution of all incandescent bulbs.

Please click, compact fluorescent bulbs to review additional facts about the compact fluorescent bulb.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the ENERGYS TAR and TreeHuggers are just a few of the Internet sites that are fans and advocates of the compact fluorescent bulbs. According to these eco-friendly organization’s Web sites, replacing the incandescent light bulb with compact fluorescent light bulb represents the following savings:

• ENERGY STAR qualified Compact fluorescent bulbs conserve at least $65 a year

• Annually, if every American household replaced just one incandescent light bulb with an ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent bulb, the conservation would be enough to light at least 3 million homes.

• The ENERGYSTAR qualified CFL has a minimum of 6000 -hours light-span 

• Compact fluorescent bulbs require less energy (up to 75% less)

5-Compact Fluorescent Bulb Things to Avoid

No mishandling – If a compact fluorescent light bulb breaks, don’t pick up the shattered glass. Once the compact fluorescent light bulb breaks, put gloves on to discard the broken pieces. In other words, never handle a broken CFL with your bear hands. Also, don’t touch a smoking or overheating compact fluorescent light bulb

Never place a compact fluorescent light in bath water.

No incompatibilities – Never place a compact fluorescent light in a lamp or fixture that is not compatible. The rule is applicable to dimmers, which use incandescent bulbs. Moreover,  the same rule is applies to timers too. Digital and electrical timers have irreconcilable differences, causing interference with the electronic ballast.

Never discard the  CFL with waste bound for the landfill. – Check your local recycling plants, to determine which facility handles the Compact fluorescent light bulb. Additionally, certain hardware stores recycle CFLs.

No Overheating – Compact fluorescent light bulbs are hypersensitive to extreme heat. As a result, always review the instructions to determine if the compact fluorescent light bulbs are safe for an enclosed fixture. are designed for specific fixtures, which can accommodate enclosed fixtures.

Despite the compact fluorescent bulbs renowned attribute for saving energy, the CFL contains small traces of mercury, requiring certain disposal guidelines. Review these enlightening answers about mercury and recycling the compact fluorescent bulb.

When in use, do compact fluorescent bulbs emit mercury?

No, CFLs do not emit mercury when in use; however, if a bulb breaks, CFLs there is a very moderate release of mercury.

 

Read about the Compact fluorescent light bulb safe disposal tips

 

Are the laws for disposal and recycling the Compact fluorescent light bulb the same in each state?

On the contrary,  all states and municipalities determine the handling and disposal of compact fluorescent bulbs. Furthermore, the guidelines are applicable to other energy efficient bulb or lamp:  linear fluorescent and high intensity discharge lamps.

What does the Federal Universal Waste Rule have to do with the compact fluorescent  bulb?

The United States The Federal Universal Waste Rule (40 CFR 273) mandates  that businesses follow a specific protocol for storing and disposing CFLs, as well as other forms of regulated waste (computers, cell phones, plastics, etc). The Federal Universal Waste Rule was established to protect the environment, serving as a financial alternative for organizations that produce massive quantities of bulbs.

Nevertheless, the Rule varies by state. For instance, the following states prohibit residents from discarding CFLs and other mercury containing bulbs from being disposed among the solid waste stream.

• California
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• Minnesota
• New Hampshire
• Vermont

Are there any green tips for disposing or recycling  compact fluorescent bulbs?

Throughout the United States, each state mandates their own – requirements for the CFL.

If you copy and paste the link below, simply type in compact fluorescent bulb in the first field and your zip code in the second field to find the closest CFL recycling location: 

• http://search.earth911.com/