Conscientious Frugal Lighting

By John Steinbach

Okay, CFL actually stands for “compact fluorescent lamp.” We’re having a little fun with the acronym, because this type of lighting offers an excellent focal point for anyone concerned about the environment and saving money.

While CFLs vary in quality, life expectancy and price, all promise to save energy, cut your utility bills and lessen environmental impact. The average CFL uses about 75 percent less electricity than an incandescent bulb and lasts about five times longer. A single bulb can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings over its lifetime.

Making the move to CFLs has become much easier and cheaper. If you catch CFLs on sale you can get them for under $2 a bulb. The quality and range of light has improved greatly in recent years, and you can now purchase bulbs to use in dimmers and in three-way lighting fixtures. Many newer CFLs cast a wonderful natural light.

While some people are concerned about the environmental impact of the trace mercury contained in CFLs, this mercury is less than what’s produced burning coal to generate the extra electricity required to power an incandescent bulb. By using CFLs, other greenhouse gases also are reduced, so the net impact on the environment is very positive. The trace mercury in the bulb poses no threat during use, but used CFLs should not be tossed in the trash, where the mercury can be exposed in a landfill. Locally, Connolly’s Do it Best stores provide a free service whereby they accept CFLs for proper disposal.

If you’re looking for an easy way to save money and help the environment, focus on lighting first. And remember what CFL “really” stands for.