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Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) are an energy-efficient and eco-friendly alternative to regular incandescent light bulbs. CFL bulbs use about 75 percent less energy and last as much as 10 times longer, meaning they are much cheaper on the long run than incandescent light bulbs.

Fluorescent Light vs Incandescent Light

Compact fluorescent light bulbs produce light in a different way than incandescent bulbs. Incandescent light bulbs produce light by passing current through a wire element, heating it until it glows. In CFL bulbs, electric current is passed through a tube that contains inert argon gas and mercury vapor, generating invisible ultraviolet light. These ultraviolet lightwaves then excite the fluorescent layer called phospor on the inside of the tubes, generating visible light. CFL bulbs generally require more electricity when they are first turned on but once the tubes are warmed up, use about one-fourth the electricity of regular incandescent bulbs. It is estimated that each CFL bulb saves $30 over its lifetime compared to incandescent bulbs in the United States.

CFL Bulbs

CFL bulbs contain two main parts – the gas filled tube and the electronic ballast, or base. The ballast contains electronic circuits, helping regulate electric current to the fluorescent tubes. CFL bulbs rated for “soft white” or “warm white” produce light that is similar in color and intensity to regular incandescent light bulbs.

CFL bulbs cost about 3 times as comparable incandescent bulbs, but the longer lifespan and reduced energy use make CFL’s more cost-effective over their lifespan. It is estimated than by switching every lightbulb with CFL’s, the average American household will save about 12% on the electricity bills.

Energy Use and Lifespan

CFL bulbs use 20-33 percent of the electricity used by incandescent bulbs at the equivalent light output. As a result, CFL bulbs also generate much less heat than incandescent bulbs. Furthermore, since almost one-tenth of the electric power in the United States goes towards lighting, switching to CFL bulbs represents major savings in electricity consumption. Visible light is measured in units of lumens which take into account the effects of the source’s spectrum on the eyes. The amount of light produced per watt of energy, or luminous efficacy, for CFL’s are 60-72 lumens per watt, compared to 8-17 lumens per watt for incandescents.

CFL bulbs are manufactured to last between 8 and 15 times as long as incandescents. CFL’s have lifespan ratings between 6000 and 15000 hours, while incandescents are rated to last beween 750 and 1000 hours. As with any electric equipment, CFL bulb lifespan depends on various factors such as voltage spikes, mechanical defects, and mechanical shock. CFL bulbs are also particularly affected by the frequency of turning the bulbs on and off. Constantly turning the bulbs on and off every 5 minutes reduces the rated lifespan of a CFL bulb by 85 percent, making it as short as a comparable incandescent bulb. Having the bulbs on for longer periods increases its lifespan, as it allows the bulbs to warm up and operate effectively.

Tips and Tricks for CFL Use

CFL bulbs should be screwed in properly and protected from mechanical shocks. Keeping CFL bulbs on for at least 15 minutes at a time helps them reach efficient operation and increases their effective lifespan. Also, not all CFL bulbs are designed to be operated with dimmer, so care must be taken to purchase the right kinds of bulbs for your particular lighting requirements. If CFL bulbs are to be used outdoors, they should be protected from the elements.

Making subtle changes to our shopping patterns is a simple path towards environmental sustainability. There are various things that consumers can in their everyday lives do to promote environmental responsibility. Taking reusable bags when going grocery shopping helps eliminate piles of disposable ones. Using rechargeable batteries instead of disposable ones leads to less toxic waste in our landfills. And using washable rags helps to reduce the amount of paper towels we use, and leads to less trees being cut down. There are even biodegradable trash bags that are an environmentally responsible alternative to regular plastic bags.

In general, buying recycled products helps us lead more sustainable lifestyles. The variety of recycled products available to the regular consumer has increased exponentially over the last few decades. Recycled paper products and recyclable plastic packaging are ubiquitous today. However, market demand for sustainable products needs to increase even further in order to encourage more green alternatives. Eco-friendly products are usually more expensive than their conventional counterparts, but tend to last longer and are of higher quality in addition to being sustainable. Therefore, it is imperative for environmentally conscious consumers to seek out such green alternatives in their everyday lives.

The imperative to live a sustainable way of life cannot be understated. Environmentally responsible practices can help preserve our planet for future generations. A multitude of eco-friendly products makes it easier for everyone to lead environmentally conscious lives. This site is your complete green guide, showcasing various environmentally friendly and energy efficient products.

The manufacturing practices that came out of the Industrial Revolution did not consider sustainability as a core concern, leading to ever increasing pollution and destruction of the natural world. However, increasing awareness in the last few decades has helped elevate environmentally sound practices into the mainstream. Products made from recycled materials and green industrial methods are becoming the norm, making it more convenient, even economical, to lead environmentally sustainable lives.

Ranging from kitchen utensils to stationery, from furniture to clothes, green alternatives are not hard to find anymore. Even appliances and electronic devices have energy efficient alternatives that are more friendly to the environment. Sites like Amazon.com and Yahoo Shopping have dedicated green departments showcasing various environmentally sustainable products. Traditional retailers are also responding to growing customer demand for eco-friendly products by offering an increasing array of sustainable products. This website will review and analyze green products to help you make more informed, more environmentally friendly, buying decisions.