Using CFLs have both pros and cons

By Dinah Eng

To many consumers, Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) are most commonly thought of as those squiggly light bulbs that offer energy-efficient lighting and are advertised to last at least six times longer than incandescent bulbs.

Advocates say the biggest advantage of using CFLs is the energy savings and long life of the bulbs. When it comes to cutting electric bills, a CFL uses 75 percent less energy than an incandescent bulb. At the same time, while prices for incandescent bulbs can run as low as 25 cents each, CFLs may range from $2 to $5 each.

“For long-term savings, one CFL bulb is the equivalent of replacing 6 to 10 incandescent bulbs,” says Gabrielle Boose, CFL product manager for General Electric.

But CFLs also come with a cautionary warning -- an essential ingredient in the CFL’s glass tubing is mercury, considered a hazardous waste in large amounts. Exposure to mercury, which is a toxic metal, can affect the spinal cord, brain, liver, and kidneys, causing memory loss, trembling hands and difficulty moving. While CFLs are not legally designated hazardous waste, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency urges consumers to dispose of the bulbs properly when they burn out. Retailers like Home Depot now offer recycling programs.

“While Home Depot is the first to offer a national recycling program, there are many retailers, like Wal-Mart and Ace Hardware, who offer take-back programs on a local level as well,” Boose says. “Consumers should understand, though, that the amount of mercury used in CFLs is very small. Our average dose in a bulb is 3.5 ml, which fits on the head of a pin. In comparison, household thermometers may have 1,000 ml of mercury in them.”

If recycling isn’t offered in your area, the EPA recommends placing the CFL in a sealed plastic bag and disposing of it as you would batteries, motor oil and oil-based paint at a local Household Hazardous Waste Collection Site. Caution should also be used if a CFL breaks in your home. Be sure to open windows so that any vapor that escapes can disperse, sweep up the fragments with a broom, and wipe the area with a disposable paper towel. Do not touch anything with your hands, and do not use a vacuum. Place all fragments in a sealed plastic bag and dispose as outlined above.

There are many different types of CFLs now available, designed to look more like traditional bulbs, hiding that once bulky spiral element. Some CFLs even work with dimmable switches as well. Truly green-minded consumers are waiting for the development of LED (Light-Emitting Diodes) technology, which was invented by GE scientists in the 1960s. LEDs can offer up to 90 percent energy cost savings, minimal maintenance, and are not made with mercury.

Common applications today include car taillights, cell phone displays, camera flashes and architectural accent lighting. “LED is the next future wave of lighting,” Boose says. “In terms of consumer use, LEDs are not ready to take the place of incandescent bulbs like CFLs are. They’re where CFLs were 10 to 15 years ago.”

To find information on CFL recycling and household hazardous waste programs in your area, check Earth911.org, which will identify the nearest recycling facility. You also can call (800) 253-2687 for an automated hotline, or the local government entity responsible for household hazardous waste collection.