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Tips and Facts: Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) Bulbs
 Here is the July 7, 2007 article, reprinted from the City of Ashland publication City Source:
- When purchasing CFLs, always look for the Energy Star label on the package; this is your assurance of high quality bulbs that have been rigorously tested for superior performance.
- One CFL uses up to 75% less energy than an ordinary light bulb and lasts between 7-10 times longer.
- You can save up to $30 over the life of each bulb and an average of $60 annually on your electric bill by replacing most incandescent bulbs with CFLs.
- The CFL package will show what wattage standard bulb the CFL should replace to get comparable light output. For example, a 15-Watt CFL will give off about the same amount of light as a 60-Watt standard incandescent bulb, and a 25-W CFL will give off about the same light output as a 100-W standard bulb.
- Most Energy Star CFLs now offer the familiar warm color of light that our eyes are accustomed to seeing with standard incandescent bulbs (which is a color temperature of around 2700 K). If you need a whiter light for more contrast when reading, you can select CFLs that have a higher color temperature (3500 K, for example); however, the light will appear different than the other 2700 K bulbs used in the same area.
- If you have a dimmable switch, only use a CFL that specifically says it is for use in this type of application. (Using a CFL that is not rate for use with a dimmer switch may create a fire hazard).
- CFL bulbs are not good choices for motion sensors, since frequent on and off switching may cause CFLs to burn out early.
- 3-way CFL bulbs are now available in most home improvement stores.
- In outside fixtures, make sure the CFL bulbs are protected from direct exposure to rain and snow.
- CFLs should not be installed in totally enclosed fixtures that don't have air circulation around them, unless the CFL is rated for such an application.
- When replacing incandescent bulbs in recessed can fixtures, be sure to use only CFL products that say they can be used in high temperature applications.
- CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury, so please do not put burned out bulbs in the trash. Instead, take them to Ashland Recycling Center on Water Street and hand them to an attendant. The CFLs will be picked up on a regular basis to be taken to a designated recycling center.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb Cleanup
If a fluorescent bulb breaks, the DEQ and EPA recommend the following clean-up and disposal guidelines:
- Wear plastic gloves, use stiff paper or cardboard to scoop up the glass and all other pieces of the broken light bulb.
- Remove all materials you can without using a vacuum cleaner. Wipe the area clean with a damp paper towel or disposable wet wipe.
- Place all cleanup materials in a rigid container such as an old paint can. Seal the container with a lid and remove it from your living area.
- Air out the room where bulb was broken for 12-24 hours.
- Do not put the sealed container in the trash! Save the container to take to the annual hazardous waste collection day (usually held beginning of May). For more information on exact date and location of this event, call Ashland Sanitary at 482-1471.
For more information on CFLs visit the city's website at www.ashland.or.us/cfl
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