Disadvantages of Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Fluorescent or incandescent? Know the differences.

Fluorescent light bulbs, known as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), are more energy efficient and have longer lives than standard light bulbs, but also have certain disadvantages that may make other bulbs preferable in some circumstances.

Cost

CFL bulbs can cost several times more than standard light bulbs for a bulb of similar power; this cost may be offset by the longer life and reduced energy consumption of CFLs.

Color

CFLs produce a characteristic pale or "white" looking light as opposed to a more orange or yellowish light produced by the familiar incandescent bulbs; some people do not like the pale color.

Safety

CFLs contain traces of mercury, a toxic element which can be released into the air if a CFL bulb breaks, potentially creating a health threat, especially for pets and children.

Disposal

Due to the mercury content of CFLs, bulbs must be disposed of more carefully than standard light bulbs to make sure they don't break, and anything that comes in contact with CFL shards should be thoroughly cleaned or thrown away.

Bulb Life

While CFLs can last much longer than normal bulbs, switching them on and off frequently may reduce bulb life; they can also take a little while to "warm up" before producing full light.

References

• Disadvantages of CFLs
• CFL info
• Pros and cons of CFLs