Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFL)

What is a CFL bulb?

A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), also known as a compact fluorescent light bulb, is a type of fluorescent lamp. Many CFLs are designed to replace an incandescent lamp or heat driven light emission lamp, and can fit in the existing light fixtures formerly used for incandescents. Compared to general service, incandescent lamps giving the same amount of visible light, CFLs use less power and have a longer rated life.

Why use a CFL bulb?

Switching from traditional light bulbs (incandescent) to CFLs is a simple change Americans can make immediately to use less electricity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Lighting accounts for close to 20 percent of the average home’s electric bills. CFLs use up to 74 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 10 times longer. Even though the initial cost of CFL bulbs is higher, because they last much longer, they do not have to be replaced as often as incandescent bulbs. Also, the savings on your electric bill will more than make up the difference.

If every American home replaced just one light bulb with a CFL bulb, it would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year, more than $600 million in annual energy costs, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars.

Although CFL’s contain mercury, 4 milligrams (an amount that would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen) by comparison the risk is miniscule. Think of it this way, an old mercury thermometer holds approximately 500 milligrams of mercury, an amount equal to the mercury in 125 CFL’s. The only way mercury can be released into the air is if the bulb is broken.

Where to take Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs)


1101 Lakecrest Pkwy



Home Depot
715 Crossings Rd.

5500 Milan Rd.