Facts About Compact Fluorescent Lights

Compact fluorescent light bulbs are a type of energy-efficient light bulb that is a common alternative to standard incandescent light bulbs. CFLs differ from standard bulbs in the way they produce light.

Function

CFLs produce light by running an electric current though a gaseous mixture within the bulb that excites a fluorescent coating on the bulb. This causes the coating to glow and produce light. This contrasts with standard bulbs, which use electricity to heat a tiny metal filament that glows due to the heat.

Benefits

CFLs are more energy efficient than standard bulbs because more of the electricity used goes toward creating light instead of being lost in the form of heat. CFLs consume about 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer."

Considerations

While CFLs are more energy efficient than normal bulbs, they tend to be sensitive to very hot or cold temperatures. Many CFLs are not compatible with dimmers, and turning CFLs on and off too frequently can reduce the life of the bulbs.

References

• Energy Star: Light bulbs (CFLs)
• Energy Star: Learn About CFLs