CFL Myths Uncovered

Myth - CFLs are unsafe.

Truth - CFLs with a UL Mark have been thoroughly tested to safety standards by Underwriters Laboratories, a third-party product safety testing organizations. Consumers should look for the UL Mark. It means UL engineers have tested representative samples of the product for safety hazards

Myth - CFLs are a new, emerging technology.

Truth - CFLs were introduced to market in the 1970s.

Myth - The contents of CFLs are bad for people and the environment.

Truth - According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), CFL's contain a small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing - approximately 5 milligrams - a hundred times less mercury than found in a single old-style glass thermometer. No mercury is released when the lamps are intact or in use and if disposed of properly, mercury in CFLs shouldn't be a safety hazard.

Myth - CFLs are dangerous when they burn out.

Truth - CFLs burn out differently than incandescent bulbs - the light usually dims over time and may produce a more dramatic pop, emit a burning odor, and maybe even release some smoke. CFLs with the UL Mark have been tested to meet specific requirements for electrical safety, fire and shock hazards. Any popping sounds or smoke that a consumer might see when a CFL burns out means that the bulb's end-of-life mechanism worked as it should have.

Myth - CFLs can't be dimmed or used in 3-way fixtures.

Truth - Early CFLs did not have dimming capabilities. The technology has evolved, however, to suit a number a lighting needs. If a light fixture is connected to a dimmer or three-way socket fixture, look for CFLs that specify use with dimmers or three-way fixtures.

Myth - CFLs are big and ugly.

Truth - CFLs now come in all shapes and sizes so consumers can easily find one that suits their light fixture, and their lifestyle.

Myth - CFLs cast unflattering light.

Truth - Consumers have options with CFLs. Look for a color temperature of 2,700-3,000 Kelvin (K) to cast a warm glow, and a color temperature of 4,500-6,000K for a cooler light.

Myth - CFLs are expensive.

Truth - While CFLs cost more than incandescent bulbs at purchase, their energy efficiency and longevity make up for the cost differential. CFLs use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer.

Myth -CFLs can't be used in traditional incandescent light fixtures.

Truth - The quirky design of a CFL is what makes them suitable for use in incandescent light fixtures. To generate light while using the least amount of electricity, most CFLs are constructed in long, thin tubes that are coiled into a spiral. This shape allows CFLs to fit a lighting fixture designed for incandescent bulbs.

CFLs perform best in open fixtures that allow airflow, such as table and floor lamps, wall sconces, pendants, and outdoor fixtures. The best fixtures to use with CFLs are usually found in family and living rooms, the kitchen, dining room, bedrooms and outdoors.