Feature Articles - Housing
Frequently Asked Questions:
Compact fluorescent lights (CFL's)
Barbara Buffaloe, LEED A.P., M.S., extension associate & resident instructor, Architectural Studies, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri Extension
What is a CFL?
CFL stands for compact fluorescent light. It is a small fluorescent light bulb that uses 75 percent less energy than a traditional incandescent bulb and can be screwed into a regular light socket.
Where should I put CFLs?
CFLs should be placed in the fixtures you use the most in your family and living room, kitchen, dining room and porch.
How do I know which bulb to buy?
Pick your light output.
If you usually buy your bulbs based on their wattage, you
can use the following chart to find CFLs with a similar
light output:
|
CFL (watts) |
A-shaped incandescent bulb (watts) |
|
9-13 |
40 |
|
13-15 |
60 |
|
18-25 |
75 |
|
23-30 |
100 |
|
30-52 |
150 |
Pick your color.
CFLs have different levels of color. These levels come from the light’s Kelvin (K) rating. The K rating ranges from 3,500K (warmer, red tint) - 8,000K (cooler, blue tint). The K rating can typically be found on the bulb’s ballast.
What type goes where?
Spiral |
Table lamp, floor lamp, ceiling fan, ceiling fixture, wall sconce, outdoor covered fixture |
|
Tubed |
Table lamp, floor lamp, wall sconce, outdoor covered fixture |
|
A-shape |
Table lamp, floor lamp, ceiling fan, pendant fixture, outdoor covered fixture |
|
Candle |
Ceiling fan, wall sconce |
|
Globe |
Pendant fixture |
|
Indoor reflector |
Ceiling fan, recessed cans |
|
Outdoor reflector |
Outdoor exposed fixture |
What if it breaks?
CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury. No mercury
is released when the bulbs are in use so they are not a
threat to your family if used properly. Like all lightbulbs,
CFLs can break if dropped or handled roughly. If a CFL
breaks:
- Vacate the room for 10 minutes.
- Sweep, don’t vacuum, all fragments.
- Place broken pieces in a sealed plastic bag and wipe the area with a damp paper towel to pick up any loose shards.
- Put the paper towel in the plastic bag as well.
- Dispose at the proper location for hazardous waste. Check earth911.com.
 |
Site Administrator: |
|
|
|
Last update: Wednesday, May 06, 2009
