Comments on: CFL: A Bright Idea for Going Green

by: waynemor

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 19:22:40 +0000

So how come no one is talking about using CFL’s with home automation? After the initial learning curve I seem to have them co-existing quite well. In fact one of my favourite “blendings” is the use of H/A timers and motion sensors to eliminate or lessen the lag in turning on when cold.
I am really surprised that there isn’t more discussion about this.
Yes CFL’s have their problems, but at least some of them can be minimized.

by: DIY: Using CFLs in Light Fixtures - Danny Lipford

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:44:07 +0000

[…] When comparing the light output of the two types of bulbs, remember that it takes CFLs a few minutes to reach their peak light output. More information on compact fluorescent light bulbs can be found in our article CFL: A Bright Idea for Going Green. […]

by: Hunter

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 00:27:19 +0000

Unfortunately, almost all of the lights in my house are track lighting and cans.

Me too.that unlucky.

by: John Cannamela

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 07:19:41 +0000

Besides changing light bulbs there is an even cheaper thing people over look .Outlet gaskets check out this video and you will see what I mean.
http://www.wcnc.com/video/environment-index.html?nvid=190732

www.infraredsurvey.com

by: Ben Erickson

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 14:18:30 +0000

CFLs can be used in recessed cans (check the box to be sure), and there are some available now that resemble traditional reflector bulbs. Just be sure that there is not a dimmer on your recessed or track lighting, as most CFL’s are not recommended for use with dimmers.

by: A. Nonny Mouse

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 01:47:04 +0000

Unfortunately, almost all of the lights in my house are track lighting and cans.

by: Ben Erickson

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 21:29:16 +0000

While CFLs do contain a very small amount of mercury (enough to cover the tip of a ballpoint pen), it is 100 times less than that found in a single thermometer. Though that doesn’t sound like much, it can add up when multiplied by millions of bulbs. Fluorescent tubes–which have been used for years in schools, public buildings, and businesses—contain a small amount of mercury as well. All fluorescent lights should be treated as hazardous waste and disposed of properly.

by: Ben Erickson

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 20:00:22 +0000

Anthony,
I don’t know of any CFLs that are recommended for use with digital timers. ENERGY STAR approved bulbs must put on the package any applications they’re not compatible with, and all the ones I’ve seen have included digital timers on that list. Here’s what the government website energystar.gov had to say about it:
“While CFLs can be used with mechanical timers, electronic or digital timers may cause interference with the electronic ballast, and can adversely affect product performance. Typically, CFLs used on electronic or digital timers will fail far before their rated lifetime.”

by: Cliff Barnard

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 18:30:44 +0000

Danny, one of the things I’m surprised about CFLs is that the total energy consumed (energy used during the lifetime of the CFL AND energy used to manufacture the CFL) is greater than that consumed by an incandescent lamp.

I’m curious if you know is this because of the costs involved in manufacturing the base, or is this just for the bulb?

I use CFLs, but I’m not thrilled with their greater total energy consumption vs. incandescent bulbs.

by: Mercury in CFL // Standard Deviant

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 13:23:01 +0000

[…] CFL Fact Sheet - Good info on how to dispose of a broken CFL since they do contain mercury. More CFL Info […]