Week 27

Progress:

4.5 Limitations of Using Compact Fluorescent lamp

4.5.1 On/Off Cycling

CFLs are sensitive to frequent on/off cycling. their rated lifetimes of 10,000 hours are reduced in applications where the light is switched on and off often.

4.5.2 Dimmers

Dimmable CFLs are available for lights using a dimmer switch but not all CFLs can be used on dimmer switches. Using a regular CFL with a dimmer can shorten the bulb lifespan.

4.5.3 Outdoor Lighting

CFLs can be used outdoors but should be covered or shaded from the elements. Low temperatures may reduce light levels.

4.5.4 Retail Lighting

CFLs are not spot lights. Retail store display lighting usually requires narrow focus beams for stronger spot lighting. CFLs are better for area lighting.

4.5.5 Mercury Content

CFLs contain small amounts of mercury which is a toxic metal. This metal may be released if the bulb is broken or during disposal. Mercury is a toxic metal associated with contamination of water, fish and food supplies and can lead to adverse health effects. A CFL bulb generally contains an average of 5mg of mercury. A power plant will emit 10mg of mercury to produce the electricity to run an incandescent bulb compared to only 2.4mg of mercury to run a CFL for the same amount of time. The net benefit of using the more energy efficient lamp is positive and this is especially true if the mercury in the fluorescent lamp is kept out of the waste stream when the lamp expires. The mercury in CFL poses no threat while in the bulb but if its broken, one should open a window and leave the room for 15 minutes and more, use a wet rag to clean it up and put all of the pieces and the rag into a plastic bag and lastly place all materials in a second sealed plastic bag and call the nearest recycling center to see if they accept the material.