CFL Light Bulbs (Information)

Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL)

A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), also known as a compact fluorescent light or energy saving light, is a type of fluorescent lamp. Many CFLs are designed to replace an incandescent bulb and can fit into most existing light fixtures formerly used for incandescent bulbs. CFLs give the same amount of visible light as an  incandescent bulb and can save about $30 in electricity costs over the bulb's life time. Compared to an incandescent bulb a CFL uses 75 percent less energy, lasts about 10 times longer and can pay for itself in about 6 months; it can also save about 2,000 times its own weight in greenhouse gases. However, like all fluorescent lamps, CFLs contain mercury, which can complicate their disposal.

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