Compact Fluorescent Light FAQs

Installing five ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent lights (CFL's) in fixtures that are turned on for three hours a day can reduce your electricity bills by approximately $30 a year. CFL's compatible with dimmer switches will lead to further savings.

Unlike incandescent bulbs, which waste up to 90 percent of energy consumption by generating heat, CFLs operate cool to the touch. Available in a broad range of shapes, sizes, colours and wattages, CFL's can replace virtually every incandescent in your home or office. In addition, modern CFL's do not flicker and hum like fluorescent tubes of the past. All these advantages make switching to CFL a bright - and cost-effective - idea!

I have heard that there is mercury in Compact fluorescent bulbs. Is it true?

There is a small amount of mercury in CFL's to help them produce light. However this amount is less than 1/5 the amount found in a common watch battery. The mercury in a CFL is used to create the light and is totally contained within the fluorescent tube.

What should I do if a CFL breaks?

In the unlikely event your bulb breaks, be certain to sweep up - DO NOT VACUUM - all of the glass fragments and phosphor powder. Place the broken pieces in a plastic bag and wipe the area with a damp paper towel to pick up any stray shards of glass or fine particles. Put the used towel in the plastic bag as well. Check with your municipal waste management program for proper disposal. If none exists, place in regular waste container. It is good practice to always clean up any products containing mercury with care and common sense.

Where should I use my compact fluorescent lights?

The best places for compact fluorescent lights are in frequently used fixtures that are on for at least three hours at a time. Fixtures that are difficult to reach also are good places to put compact fluorescent lights.

Will compact fluorescent lights work where it's cold? Where it's hot?

Always read the package for the manufacturer’s recommendations, but generally, compact fluorescent lights can be used in the -7°C to 60°F range. Many new products will start at temperatures to -30°C, though the light output may be somewhat reduced at very low temperatures. When compact fluorescent lights operate at temperatures above 60°C, there may be reduced light output and premature ballast failure.

Will CFLs work where it's damp?

Do not install compact fluorescent lights where they will be directly exposed to water or snow. You can install compact fluorescent lights in sheltered exterior places. Some compact fluorescent lights have ventilation holes to keep them cool. Do not install that type of compact fluorescent light where moisture or water can get in the holes