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.