Why Use Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs)?
• They can be used almost anywhere in your home. • They use approximately 66-75% less energy than an incandescent bulb. • They last up to 6-10 times longer than a standard incandescent bulb. Some Facts about CFLs and Mercury: A trace amount of mercury is contained in each CFL, less than 5 mg. The amount of mercury in a CFL is 1/5 the amount in a watch battery. Mercury is commonly found in thermometers, thermostats, and button cell batteries. Older household thermometers contain about 500 mg of mercury. It would take over 100 CFLs to equal that amount. How to Best Use CFLs: • For maximum savings, CFLs should be installed in high use areas. For maximum life, CFLs work best in locations where the light is left on for at least 15 minutes at a time. • In dimmable fixtures you must use CFLs labeled for use with dimmers. • In the cold or outdoors, use CFLs that are rated for low temperatures. • If a bulb accidentally breaks, please follow the clean-up procedure outlined on this document for y
