Be Green – and Save Some Too – with Compact Fluorescent Lights

Switching to compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) is a way to use energy safely and wisely. Because these bulbs use 75% less energy and last up to 10 times longer than comparable incandescent bulbs, they can help reduce your energy bills while also reducing greenhouse gases and fuel used to generate power.

If every American home replaced just one incandescent bulb with a CFL, it would save enough energy to light 3 million homes a year, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of 800,000 vehicles.

CFLs contain a small amount of mercury. So, if one breaks follow these steps: 

• Open a window and leave the room for 15 minutes or more.  
• Using disposable rubber gloves and stiff paper, pick up the broken pieces and wipe the area clean with a damp disposable wipe. Avoid vacuuming the area – try using tape to pick up pieces from carpeting if necessary. 
• Place all pieces in a sealed plastic bag and then place the bag into a second plastic bag. If you’ve had to vacuum the area, remove the vacuum bag and place it in a second sealable bag.
• Call your refuse company for disposal procedures or contact your county’s recycling center. For details, visit the environmental protection agency's Web site.

When CFLs do burn out, dispose of them safely. Contact your refuse company or visit the ENERGY STAR Web site to learn more. And be sure to look for the energy star symbol when purchasing a CFL – ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs have a warranty.

Source: Environmental Protection Agency and Energy Star