Energy Smart Tip of the Month, October 2008

October is built around CFLs!

Three letters–CFL–have the potential to change significantly the way America uses energy.

The CFL - compact flurescent lightbulb - is an energy efficient product that can replace many, but not all, situations where a standard incandescent light bulb has been used in the past. A CFL can last up to 10 times longer and use about 75 percent less energy while producing a comparable amount of illumination as a standard light bulb.

CFLs have been in the news a lot, lately. Some of the news may be misleading. Here are some facts about CFLs.

  • CFLs are safe to use and are energy efficient. It’s true, each bulb contains about 5 milligrams of mercury, but this does not pose a health risk when the bulbs are properly used, handled and disposed of.
  • If a CFL breaks, it is safe for you to clean the broken bulb yourself. Follow these recommended Environmental Protection Agency guidelines:
    • Open a window and leave the room for 15 minutes
    • Scoop up the fragments and powder with stiff paper or cardboard
    • Wipe the area clean with a damp paper towel
    • Place broken bulb and cleaning materials into a plastic bag and seal
    • Wash your hands
    • Dispose of broken bulb and cleaning materials properly (landfill)
  • When buying a CFL, select one with an ENERGY STAR® on the label. This indicates the bulb has met strict federal specifications for energy savings, long life, color and brightness.
  • CFLs come in all shapes and sizes making it possible for you to replace nearly every conventional light bulb in your home with a CFL. When shopping for a CFL, check the wattage equivalency numbers on the package.
  • A typical 20-watt CFL costs around $3 when purchased as a single bulb and about $2 per bulb when purchased in multi-packs. The CFL bulb will often pay for itself in energy savings and low electric bills in less than eight months, depending upon your local electric rate. And the energy/cost savings don’t end then; a CFL will save you money throughout its long life.
For more information on steps homeowners can take to improve the efficiency of their homes, contact Southern Power District, or visit the ENERGY STAR® Home Advisor at http://www.energystar.gov/homeadvisor. Your public power electric utility wants you to get the most energy value for your money. It costs far less to save energy than it does to build a new power plant to generate additional power.