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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Last Longer and Save Money
According to the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Star program, compact fluorescent bulbs last 10 times longer than conventional incandescent bulbs and use 75 percent less energy. A 20-watt CFL puts out as much light as a 100-watt incandescent bulb. Average savings for switching to compact fluorescent bulbs is $30 per bulb per year.
On the Other: Expensive and Need Special Handling
Compact fluorescent bulbs cost as much as 10 times more than incandescent bulbs, so the initial investment is much higher. Because the bulbs contain mercury, they have to be taken to a hazardous waste facility instead of thrown in the trash. CFLs are fragile and are less efficient than incandescent bulbs at very cold temperatures.
Bottom Line
The new compact fluorescent bulbs are much better than incandescent bulbs overall. They save money, conserve energy and are becoming more affordable over time. Compact fluorescent light bulbs save so much money and energy that that Australia, the European Union and others plan to ban the use of incandescent bulbs outright.
Source:
EnergyStar: Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Studyphysics: Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Huntsville Times: Where Can I Recycle Fluorescent Bulbs?
More Information:
Popular Mechanics: The Best Compact Fluorescent Bulbs: PM Lab Test
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