Compact fluorescent lamp 1201545 226108792 2008-07-16T21:23:17Z Wtshymanski 139104 correct as written; reverted [[WP:UNDO|Undid]] revision 226076571 by [[Special:Contributions/38.119.246.29|38.119.246.29]] ([[User talk:38.119.246.29|talk]]) {{redirect|Low-energy light-bulb|other low-energy bulbs|Solid-state lighting}} [[Image:Compact-Flourescent-Bulb.jpg|thumb|250px|A spiral-type compact fluorescent lamp. This style has slightly reduced efficiency compared to tubular fluorescent lamps, due to the excessively thick layer of [[phosphor]] on the lower side of the twist. Despite this, it has become one of the most popular types among North American consumers since its introduction in the mid 1990s.<ref>{{cite web | title=Philips Tornado Asian Compact Fluorescent | publisher=Philips | accessdate=2007-12-24 | url=http://www.lamptech.co.uk/Spec%20Sheets/Philips%20CFL%20Tornado.htm}}</ref>]] A '''compact fluorescent lamp''' ('''CFL'''), also known as a '''compact fluorescent light bulb''' (or less commonly as a '''compact fluorescent tube''' ['''CFT''']), is a type of [[fluorescent lamp]]. Many CFLs are designed to replace an [[Incandescent light bulb|incandescent lamp]] and can fit in the existing [[light fixture]]s formerly used for incandescents. Compared to general service incandescent lamps giving the same [[luminous flux|amount of visible light]], CFLs use less power and have a longer rated life, but generally have a higher purchase price. In the United States, a CFL can save over [[United States dollar|US$]]30 in electricity costs over the lamp's lifetime compared to an incandescent lamp and save 2000 times its own weight in [[greenhouse gas]]es.<ref>{{cite web | title=Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs | | publisher=Energy Star | accessdate=2007-12-24 | url=http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls}}</ref> Like all fluorescent lamps, CFLs contain [[Mercury (element)|mercury]]; this complicates the disposal of fluorescent lamps. CFLs radiate a different light spectrum from that of incandescent lamps. Improved [[phosphor]] formulations have improved the subjective color of the light emitted by CFLs such that the best 'soft white' CFLs available in 2007 are subjectively similar in color to standard incandescent lamps.<ref>{{citation | title=The Best Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs: PM Lab Test | last=Masamitsu | first=Emily | year=2007 | date=May 2007 | periodical=Popular Mechanics | accessdate=2007-05-15 | url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/home_journal/home_improvement/4215199.html}}</ref> ==History== [[Image:CFL-wild-large.jpg|thumb|right|A compact fluorescent lamp used outside a building.]] The parent to the modern compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) was invented in the late 1890s by [[Peter Cooper Hewitt]].<ref name="History of Fluorescent Lights">{{citation | title=The History of Fluorescent Lights | year=2007 | author=Mary Bellis | date=2007 | periodical=About.com | accessdate=2008-02-13 | url=http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/bl_fluorescent.htm}}</ref> The Cooper Hewitt lamps were used for photographic studios and industries.<ref name="History of Fluorescent Lights"/> [[Edmund Germer]], [[Friedrich Meyer]], and [[Hans Spanner]] then patented a high pressure vapor lamp in 1927.<ref name="History of Fluorescent Lights"/> [[George Inman]] later teamed with [[General Electric]] to create a practical fluorescent lamp, sold in 1938 and patented in 1941.<ref name="History of Fluorescent Lights"/> The modern CFL was invented by [[Ed Hammer]], an engineer with [[General Electric]], in response to the [[1973 oil crisis]]. While it met its design goals, it would have cost GE about US$25 million to build new factories to produce them and the invention was shelved.<ref name="Kanellos2007_07_17">{{citation | title=Father of the compact fluorescent bulb looks back | year=2007 | author=Michael Kanellos | date=August 2007 | periodical=CNet News | accessdate=2007-07-17 | url=http://www.news.com/Father-of-the-compact-fluorescent-bulb-looks-back/2100-11392_3-6202996.html}}</ref> The design was eventually leaked out and copied by others.<ref name="Kanellos2007_07_17"/> ==Construction== Globally introduced in the early 1980s, CFLs have steadily increased in sales volume. The most important technical advance has been the gradual replacement of electromagnetic [[Electrical ballast|ballast]]s with electronic ballasts; this has removed most of the flickering and slow starting traditionally associated with fluorescent lighting. There are two types of CFLs: integrated and non-integrated lamps. ===Parts=== [[Image:Elektronstarterp.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Electronic [[Ballast (electrical)|ballast]] of a compact fluorescent lamp]] There are two main parts in a CFL: the gas-filled tube (also called bulb or burner) and the magnetic or electronic [[Ballast (electrical)|ballast]]. An [[Electric current|electrical current]] from the ballast flows through the gas, causing it to emit [[ultraviolet]] light. The ultraviolet light then excites a [[phosphor]] coating on the inside of the tube. This coating emits visible light (see [[Fluorescent lamp]]). Electronic ballasts contain a small circuit board with [[rectifier]]s, a filter [[capacitor]] and usually two switching [[transistor]]s connected as a high-frequency resonant series DC to AC [[inverter]]. The resulting high frequency, around 40 kHz or higher, is applied to the lamp tube. Since the resonant converter tends to stabilize lamp current (and light produced) over a range of input voltages, standard CFLs do not respond well in dimming applications and special lamps are required for dimming service. CFLs that flicker when they start have magnetic ballasts; CFLs with electronic ballasts are now much more common. ===Integrated CFLs=== Integrated lamps combine a tube, an [[electronic ballast]] and either an [[Edison screw]] or bayonet fitting in a single CFL unit. These lamps allow consumers to easily replace incandescent lamps with CFLs. Integrated CFLs work well in standard incandescent light fixtures. This lowers the cost of CFL use, since they can reuse the existing infrastructure. In addition, incandescent light fixtures are relatively inexpensive. ===Non-integrated CFLs=== Non-integrated CFLs have a separate, replaceable bulb and a permanently installed ballast. Since the ballasts are placed in the light fixture they are larger and last longer, compared to the integrated ones. Non-integrated CFL housings can be both more expensive and sophisticated, providing options such as [[Dimmer|dimming]], less flicker, faster starts, etc.<ref>{{cite web | title=Electronic Fluorescent Dimmers | publisher=Hunt Dimming | accessdate=2007-12-24 | url=http://www.huntdimming.com/elec_fluor.html}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Electronic Dimmable Ballasts | publisher=Advanced Buildings Technologies and Practices | accessdate=2007-12-24 | url=http://www.advancedbuildings.org/main_t_lighting_e_dimmable_ballasts.htm}}</ref> The ballasts make these light fixtures relatively expensive. They cost anywhere from 85 to 200 USD for each [[Recessed light|recessed can]]. If a ballast with dimming capabilities is desired the cost is anywhere from 125 to 300 USD per recessed can. Non-integrated CFLs are more popular for professional users, such as hotels and office buildings. The more advanced capabilities of these sophisticated external ballasts (e.g., faster starts, limited flicker, dimming, longer lifespans, etc.) are starting to appear in integrated CFLs. Another style of non-integrated fitting is the "two piece", where the initial system includes a base adapter and detachable fluorescent tube module, and subsequently only the tube unit is replaced. The Thorn 2D and some Philips PL versions are examples, but while replacement tubes are generally still available, it is rare to see the complete kit on sale, having been overshadowed by cut-price one-piece units. ===CFL power sources=== CFLs are produced for both [[alternating current]] (AC) and [[direct current]] (DC) input. DC CFLs are popular for use in [[recreational vehicle]]s and [[off-the-grid]] housing. Some families in [[developing countries]] are using DC CFLs (with [[Car battery|car batteries]] and small [[Photovoltaic module|solar panel]]s) and/or wind generators, to replace [[Kerosene lamp|kerosene lanterns]]. CFLs can also be operated with [[solar power]]ed [[street light]]s, using solar panels located on the top or sides of a pole and luminaires that are specially wired to use the lamps. ==Comparison with incandescent lamps== ===Lifespan=== The average rated life of a CFL is between 8 and 15 times that of incandescents.<ref>[http://www.nef.org.uk/energyadvice/lighting.htm National Energy Foundation - redirection page]</ref> CFLs typically have a rated [[Service life|lifespan]] of between 6,000 and 15,000 hours, whereas incandescent lamps are usually manufactured to have a lifespan of 750 hours or 1,000 hours.<ref>{{cite web | title=Osram Dulux EL Energy-Saving Lamps | publisher=Osram | format=PDF | accessdate=2007-12-24 | url=http://www.osram.com/pdf/products/general/duluxsortiment.pdf | archivedate=2006-07-22 | archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20060722104807/http://www.osram.com/pdf/products/general/duluxsortiment.pdf}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=IEC 60969 - Self-ballasted lamps for general lighting services - Performance requirements | publisher=Collaborative Labeling and Appliance Standards Program | accessdate=2007-12-24 | url=http://www.clasponline.org/teststandard.php?no=82}}</ref> Some incandescent bulbs with long rated lifespans of 20,000 hours have [[Incandescent light bulb#Voltage, light output, and lifetime|reduced light output]]. <ref>[http://www.smarthome.com/903303.html Light output of long-life incandescent lamps]</ref> The lifetime of any lamp depends on many factors including operating voltage, manufacturing defects, exposure to [[voltage spike]]s, [[Shock (mechanics)|mechanical shock]], frequency of cycling on and off, lamp orientation and ambient operating temperature, among other factors. The life of a CFL is significantly shorter if it is only turned on for a few minutes at a time: In the case of a 5-minute on/off cycle the lifespan of a CFL can be up to 85% shorter, reducing its lifespan to the level of an incandescent lamp.<ref>[http://www.mnenergychallenge.org/askanexpert/?PHPSESSID=afc2d785e31f8#q5 Minnesota's Energy Challenge]</ref><ref>[http://www.firstlightdirect.com/mcp/Low_Energy_Long_Life_Light_Bulbs_Globe_Style.html Low Energy Long Life CFL Light Bulbs Globe Style- Bayonet Cap and Edison Screwed Cap]</ref><ref>[http://annporter.wordpress.com/2007/08/20/most-life-out-of-cfl/ Get the Most Life out of your CFL « KitchAnn Style]</ref> The US Energy Star program says to leave them on at least 15 minutes at a time to mitigate this problem. CFLs produce less light later in their life than they do at the start. The light output depreciation is [[Exponential decay|exponential]], with the fastest losses being soon after the lamp was first used. By the end of their lives, CFLs can be expected to produce 70-80% of their original light output. <ref>http://www.rightlight6.org/english/proceedings/Session_8/Performance_Standard_and_Inspection_Methods_of_CFL/f013guan.doc</ref> The response of the human eye to light is [[Logarithmic scale|logarithmic]]: Each [[f-number]] (or photographic 'f-stop') reduction represents a halving in actual light, but is subjectively quite a small change.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.crompton.com/wa3dsp/light/lumin.html | title=Brightness, Luminance, and Confusion | accessdate=2007-10-07 | author=Charles P. Halsted | date=March 1993 | work=Information Display | publisher=Naval Air Warfare Center Warminster, PA | quote=If the luminance of a viewed light source is increased 10 times, viewers do not judge that the brightness has increased 10 times. The relationship is, in fact, logarithmic: the sensitivity of the eye decreases rapidly as the luminance of the source increases. It is this characteristic that allows the human eye to operate over such an extremely wide range of light levels.}}</ref> A 20-30% reduction over many thousands of hours represents a change of about half an f-stop, which is barely noticeable in everyday life.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.cg.tuwien.ac.at/research/theses/matkovic/node15.html | title=Color Science Basics: Human Vision | accessdate=2007-10-07 | author=Krešimir Matković | date=December 1997 | work=Tone Mapping Techniques and Color Image Difference in Global Illumination | publisher=Institut für Computergraphik eingereicht an der Technischen Universität Wien | language=English | quote=It is interesting, that despite the fact that incoming light can have a dynamic range of nearly 14 log units, the neural units can transfer the signal having the dynamic range of only about 1.5 log units. It is obvious that there is some adaptation mechanism involved in our vision. It means that we adapt to some luminance value, and then we can perceive data in a certain dynamic range near the adaptation level. One of the most important characteristics that changes with different adaptation levels is the just noticeable difference.}}</ref> ===Energy efficiency === [[Image:Electricity use by lightbulb type.svg|thumb|400px|right|The chart shows the energy usage for different types of light bulbs operating at different light outputs. Points lower on the graph correspond to lower energy use.]] For a given light output, CFLs use between one fifth and one third of the power of an equivalent [[incandescent lamp]].<ref>[http://www.gelighting.com/na/business_lighting/faqs/cfl.htm#10 FAQs: Compact Fluorescent: GE Commercial Lighting Products]</ref> Since lighting accounted for approximately 9% of household electricity usage in the United States in 2001,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.eia.doe.gov/emeu/reps/enduse/er01_us.html | publisher=US Energy Information Administration | title=US Household Electricity Report | year=2005}}</ref> widespread use of CFLs could save as much as 7% from household usage. If incandescent lamps are replaced by CFLs the heat produced by the building's lighting system will be reduced. At times when the building requires both heating and lighting, the building's [[central heating]] system will then supply the heat. If the building requires both illumination and cooling, then CFLs will use less electricity themselves and will also reduce the load on the [[Air conditioning|cooling system]] compared to incandescent lamps. This results in two concurrent savings, and since most [[air conditioner]]s are also electrically powered, they are directly comparable. {{detail|Luminous efficacy}} In order to compare the actual [[energy efficiency]] of CFLs with various other lamp technologies such as incandescent, LED and halogen, factors to compare include total lumens, the usefulness of different frequencies of light, the distribution of light around the lamps, the efficiency of the CFL ballast and other factors. ===Cost=== While the purchase price of an integrated CFL is typically 3 to 10 times greater than that of an equivalent incandescent lamp, the extended lifetime (fewer lamps to replace and reduced labor) and lower energy use will compensate for the higher initial cost in many applications.<ref>[http://www.lipower.org/newscenter/pr/2006/102506_cal.html Long Island Power Authority News | LIPA Encourages All Long Islanders to Join in the Change a Light, Change the World Campaign]</ref> A US article stated "A household that invested $90 in changing 30 fixtures to CFLs would save $440 to $1,500 over the five-year life of the bulbs, depending on your cost of electricity. Look at your utility bill and imagine a 12% discount to estimate the savings."<ref>[http://www.usnews.com/articles/business/economy/2007/12/19/faq-the-end-of-the-light-bulb-as-we-know-it.html FAQ: The End of the Light Bulb as We Know It]. [[US News & World Report]], [[19 December]] [[2007]].</ref> CFLs are extremely cost-effective in commercial buildings. A CFL replacing a 75 W incandescent fixture offers an average yearly savings of $22 considering direct energy saving, reduced HVAC cost, and reduced labor to change lamps. The capital investment of $2 per fixture is typically paid back in about one month. Savings are greater and payback periods shorter in regions with higher than average electric rates and, to a lesser extent, higher than average cooling requirements.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.energypulse.net/centers/article/article_display.cfm?a_id=1655 | title= The Cost-Effectiveness of Compact Fluorescents in Commercial Buildings | date=[[2008-01-23]] | author=Chernoff, Harry | work=EnergyPulse | accessdate=2008-03-21 }}</ref> ===Starting time === Incandescents give light almost immediately upon the application of voltage. CFLs take a perceptible time to achieve full brightness, and can take much longer in very cold temperatures. Certain styles of lamp using a mercury [[amalgam]] can take up to three minutes to reach full output. Coupling this with the shorter life of CFLs when turned on and off for short amounts of time may make incandescent bulbs more attractive for applications such as outdoor or motion-activated lighting. ==Comparison with alternative technologies== [[Solid-state lighting]] has already filled a few specialist niches such as [[Traffic lights#Optics and lighting|traffic lights]] and may compete with CFLs in the near future. [[LED lamp]]s have current efficiencies of 30% with higher levels attainable (recently up to 85 lm/W LEDs are available), and a lifetime of around 50,000 hours. Currently LED lamps do not deliver the intensity of light output for domestic uses at a reasonable cost.<ref>{{Citation | last=Coghlan | first=Andy | year=2007 | title=It's lights out for household classic | periodical=New Scientist | volume=193 | issue=2597 | pages=26-27 | url=http://environment.newscientist.com/channel/earth/mg19325975.600-its-lights-out-for-classic-household-bulb.html}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.lunaraccents.com/nav-educational-LED-information.html | title=LED Lifespan | publisher=Lunar Accents Design Corporation, Kennesaw, GA, United States | accessdate=2007-04-17 | format=html}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://w1.siemens.com/innovation/en/news_events/innovationnews/innovationnews_articles/lighting/powerful_little_light_led_with_1000_lumens.htm |title=Powerful Little Light: LED With 1,000 Lumens |accessdate=2007-09-14 |date=[[2007-03-15]] |publisher=Siemens AG}}</ref> [[General Electric]] is attempting to develop more efficient incandescent bulbs that can produce the same light output as a 60-watt bulb (~800 lumens) but with half the wattage (30 watt). Their ultimate goal is to manufacture an incandescent bulb that will match the CFL's performance (a 15 watt bulb outputting 60-watt equivalency). <ref>{{Citation | last = Daley | first = Dan | title = Incandescent's Not-So-Dim Future | newspaper = Projection Lights and Staging News (PLSN) | volume = 09 | issue = 1 | pages = 46 | publisher = Timeless Communications Corp. | year = 2008 |date=February 2008|url=http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2520Itemid=66}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/ge/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20070223005120 |accessdate=2008-06-26 |title=GE Announces Advancement in Incandescent Technology; New High-Efficiency Lamps Targeted for Market by 2010 |date=2007-02-23 }}</ref> ==Other CFL technologies== Another type of fluorescent lamp is the [[Electrodeless lamp]], known as a radiofluorescent lamp or fluorescent induction lamp. These lamps have no wire conductors penetrating their envelopes, and instead excite mercury vapor using a radio-frequency oscillator. <ref>{{Cite web |url=http://ecmweb.com/mag/electric_rf_lighting_tunes/ |title=RF Lighting Tunes in Improved Illumination}}</ref> Currently, this type of light source is struggling with a high cost of production, stability of the products produced in China, establishing an internationally recognized standard and problems with [[Electromagnetic compatibility|EMC]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.miserlighting.com/uploads/documents/HowItWorks.pdf | publisher=Miser Lighting Inc. | title=''How It Works''}}</ref> and [[Electromagnetic interference|RFI]]. Induction lighting is excluded from Energy Star standard for 2007 by the EPA. Some manufacturers make CFL bulbs with an external nano-particle coating of [[titanium dioxide]].<ref>"[http://www.spectrum.ieee.org/feb05/2091 A better Ligthbulb?]", IEEE Spectrum, February 2005, retrieved June 15, 2008.</ref> The manufacturer claims that the titanium dioxide when exposed to UV light produced by the CFL can neutralize odors and kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. The [[Cold cathode|Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp]] (CCFL) is one of the newest forms of CFL. CCFLs use electrodes without a filament. The voltage of CCFLs is about 5 times higher than CFLs and the current is about 10 times lower. CCFLs have a diameter of about 3 millimeters. CCFLs were initially used for backlighting [[LCD]] displays, but they are now also manufactured for use as lamps. The efficacy (lumens/watt) is about half that of CFLs. Their advantages are that they are instant-on, like incandescents, they are compatible with timers, photocells and dimmers, and they have a long life of approximately 50,000 hours. CCFLs are a convenient transition technology for those who are not comfortable with the short lag time associated with the initial lighting of CFLs. They are also an effective and efficient replacement for lighting that is turned on and off frequently with little extended use (e.g. a bathroom or closet). ==Colors== [[Image:CFBulbs.jpg|thumb|250px|A photograph of various lamps illustrates the effect of color temperature differences (left to right): '''(1)''' Compact Fluorescent: General Electric, 13 watt, 6500 K '''(2)''' Incandescent: Sylvania 60-Watt Extra Soft White '''(3)''' Compact Fluorescent: Bright Effects, 15 watts, 2644 K '''(4)''' Compact Fluorescent: Sylvania, 14 watts, 3000 K]] [[Image:Black light bulb.jpg|thumb|right|A [[blacklight]] CFL.]] [[Color temperature]] can be indicated in [[kelvin]]s or [[mired]]s (1 million divided by the color temperature in kelvins). {| class="wikitable" ![[Color temperature]] !! kelvin !! mired |- |'Warm white' or 'Soft white' || ≤ 3000 [[Kelvin|K]]|| ≥ 333 [[Mired|M]] |- |'White' or 'Bright White' || 3500 K|| 286 M |- |'Cool white' || 4000 K || 250 M |- |'Daylight' || ≥ 5000 K || ≤ 200 M |} Color temperature is a [[quantitative]] measure. The higher the number in kelvins, the 'cooler', i.e., bluer, the shade. Color names associated with a particular color temperature are not standardized for modern CFLs and other triphosphor lamps like they were for the older-style halophosphate fluorescent lamps. Variations and inconsistencies exist among manufacturers. For example, Sylvania's Daylight CFLs have a color temperature of 3500 K, while most other lamps with a 'daylight' label have color temperatures of at least 5000 K. Some vendors do not include the kelvin value on the package, but this is beginning to change now that the [[Energy Star]] Criteria for CFLs is expected to require such labeling in its 4.0 revision. Some manufacturers now label their CFLs with a 3 digit code to specify the [[color rendering index]] (CRI) and color temperature of the lamp. The first digit represents the CRI measured in tens of percent, while the second two digits represent the color temperature measured in hundreds of kelvins. For example, a CFL with a CRI of 83% and a color temperature of 2700 K would be given a code of 827.<ref>[http://www.eejitsguides.com/environment/esbulbs.html Color Temperature and CRI of Energy Saver Lamps<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> CFLs are also produced, less commonly, in other colors: *Red, green, orange, blue, and pink, primarily for novelty purposes *Blue for [[Light therapy|phototherapy]] *Yellow, for outdoor lighting, because it does not attract insects *[[Black light]] ([[Ultraviolet|UV]] light) for [[special effect]]s Black light CFLs, those with UVA generating phosphor, are much more efficient than incandescent black light lamps, since the amount of UV light that the filament of the incandescent lamp produces is only a fraction of the generated spectrum. Being a [[gas discharge lamp]], a CFL will not generate all frequencies of [[Visible spectrum|visible light]]; the actual [[color rendering index]] is a design compromise (see below). With less than perfect color rendering, CFLs can be unsatisfactory for inside lighting, but modern, high quality designs are proving acceptable for home use.{{Fact|date=January 2008}} Other terms that apply to CFLs: *[[Full-spectrum|Full Spectrum]] *High Definition ==Environmental issues== {{world}} ===Energy savings=== Since compact fluorescent uses less power to supply the same amount of light as an incandescent lamp, they decrease energy consumption and the [[Environmental concerns with electricity generation|environmental effects of electric power generation]]. Where electricity is largely produced from burning [[fossil fuels]], the savings reduces emissions of [[greenhouse gas]]es and other pollutants; in other areas the reduction may help reduce negative impacts from [[radioactive waste]], [[Hydroelectricity#Environmental damage|hydroelectric plants]], or other sources. While CFLs require more energy in manufacturing than incandescent lamps, this is said to be offset by the fact that they last longer and use less energy than equivalent incandescent lamps during their lifespan.<ref>[http://thewatt.com/node/175 Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs – A Tale From Dust to Dust] retrieved June 15, 2008</ref> ===Mercury emissions=== [[Image:Mercury emissions by light source (en).svg|thumb|right|300px|Mercury use of compact fluorescent lamp vs. incandescent lamp if powered by electricity generated completely from [[coal]], [[Coal power in the United States|though coal accounts for only about half of the power production in the United States]].]] CFLs, like all [[fluorescent lamps]], contain small amounts of [[Mercury (element)|mercury]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://web.archive.org/web/20051230010537/http://www.informinc.org/fact_P3NJlampcontract.php |title=Mercury Content Information Available for Lamps on the 2003 New Jersey Contract T-0192 |accessdate=2007-05-15}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ccme.ca/assets/pdf/merc_lamp_standard_e.pdf |title=Canada-Wide Standard for Mercury-Containing Lamps |accessdate=2007-03-23 |date=2001 }}</ref> and it is a concern for [[landfill]]s and [[Incinerator|waste incinerators]] where the mercury from lamps is released and contributes to air and water [[pollution]]. In the U.S., lighting manufacturer members of the [[National Electrical Manufacturers Association]] (NEMA) have voluntarily capped the amount of mercury used in CFLs. <ref name=NEMAHgCap>{{cite web|url=http://www.nema.org/media/pr/20070313a.cfm|title=NEMA Lamp Companies Announce Commitment to Cap CFL Mercury Content|accessdate=2007-03-23}}</ref> Some manufacturers such as [http://www.philips.co.uk Philips], GE, [http://www.tcpi.com TCP Inc.] and [http://www.turolight.com Turolight] make very low mercury content CFLs.<ref>{{cite web | title=Philips announces reduction in mercury content of its CFLs to record Industry lows | url=http://www.lighting.philips.com/gl_en/news/press/sustainability/archive_2006/reduction_in_mercury.php | accessdate=2007-03-19}}</ref> In 2007, [http://www.turolight.com Turolight] claimed its new Genesis Fusion line contained only 1mg of mercury, making it the lowest EnergyStar approved bulb in North America. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), when coal power is used, less mercury is released when fluorescent lamps are used, even including mercury in the lamps.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nema.org/lamprecycle/epafactsheet-cfl.pdf|title=FACT SHEET: Mercury in Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)|accessdate=2007-03-19}}</ref> EPA is implementing policies to reduce airborne mercury emissions by coal plants, with an objective of 70% reduction by 2018. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/Fact_Sheet_Mercury.pdf|title=Frequently Asked Questions, Information on Proper Disposal of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs)|accessdate=2007-03-19}}</ref><ref>[http://www.popularmechanics.com/blogs/home_journal_news/4217864.html Compact Fluorescent Bulbs and Mercury: Reality Check]. [[Popular Mechanics]], [[11 June]] [[2007]].</ref> Of course, not all electricity is coal generated, but the mercury from spent CFLs is not released into air if the bulbs are not broken in transport. Only 3 percent of CFL bulbs are properly disposed of or recycled.{{Fact|date=May 2008}} This comparison also assumes the CFL bulb survives to its full rated life.<ref>National Electrical Manufacturers Association ([[NEMA]]) ''Fluorescent Lamps and the Environment'', NEMA01BR, January 2001 page 7</ref> Mercury emissions in North America are generally decreasing, but this decrease is offset world-wide by increased emissions from growing economies.<ref>''[http://www.ijc.org/php/publications/html/12br/english/report/chemical/rme.html Reductions in Mercury Emissons]'', Web site of the [[International Joint Commission]] on the [[Great Lakes]] </ref> ====Broken and discarded lamps==== Public adoption of CFLs has been slowed by one widely-circulated story of how the Maine Department of Environmental Resources detected mercury contamination following a residential CFL breakage incident, and the homeowner was presented with a US$2,000 estimate from an environmental cleanup firm.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.financialpost.com/story.html?id=aa7796aa-e4a5-4c06-be84-b62dee548fda |accessdate=2008-06-26 |title=The CFL mercury nightmare |date=2007-04-28 |author=Steven Milloy |work=Financial Post }}</ref> Spent lamps should be recycled to contain the small amount of mercury in each lamp, in preference to disposal in landfills. In the [[European Union]], CFLs are one of many products subject to the [[Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive|WEEE]] recycling scheme. The [[Price|retail price]] includes an amount to pay for recycling, and manufacturers and importers have an obligation to collect and recycle CFLs. Safe disposal requires storing the bulbs unbroken until they can be processed. In the US, [[The Home Depot]] is the first retailer to make CFL recycling options widely available.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/24/business/24recycling.html?em&ex=1214625600&en=8ddbcb7023c75243&ei=5087%0A |accessdate=2008-06-26 |title=Home Depot Offers Recycling for Compact Fluorescent Bulbs |date=2008-06-26 |description=Home Depot’s move will create the nation’s most widespread recycling program for the energy-saving bulbs, which have to be properly disposed of since they contain small amounts of mercury. |author=Rosenbloom, Stephanie |work=The New York Times }}</ref> Special handling upon breakage is currently not printed on the packaging of household CFL bulbs in many countries. It is important to note that the amount of mercury released by one bulb can exceed U.S. federal guidelines for chronic exposure.<ref>[http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/02/26/mercury_leaks_found_as_new_bulbs_break/?page=1 Mercury leaks found as new bulbs break - The Boston Globe]</ref><ref>[http://maine.gov/dep/rwm/homeowner/cflreport.htm Maine study on broken CFLs and mercury] retrieved Feb 28, 2008.</ref> Chronic however, implies that the exposure takes place over a long period of time. One time exposure to a trace amount of mercury is unlikely to be harmful.<!--Agree, but needs a reference. Don't call the hazmat team for a broken bulb.--> Conventional tubular fluorescent lamps have been used since 1938 with little concern about handling. The [[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]] recommends that, in the absence of local guideline, fluorescent bulbs be double-bagged in plastic bags before disposal.<ref name=EPA-broken-bulb>{{cite web |url=http://www.epa.gov/mercury/spills/index.htm#flourescent |title= Mercury - spills, disposal and site cleanup - what to do if a fluorescent light bulb breaks |date=2007-10-25 |accessdate=2008-01-15 |publisher= U.S. Environmental Protection Agency}}</ref> The first step of processing CFLs involves crushing the bulbs in a machine that uses [[negative pressure]] ventilation and a mercury-absorbing filter or [[Cryopump|cold trap]] to contain mercury vapor. Many municipalities are purchasing such machines. The crushed glass and metal is stored in drums, ready for shipping to recycling factories. According to the Northwest Compact Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Project, because household users have the option of disposing of these products in the same way they dispose of other solid waste, "a large majority of household CFLs are going to municipal solid waste". They additionally note that an EPA report on mercury emissions from fluorescent tube lamp disposal indicates the percentage of total mercury released from the following disposal options: municipal waste landfill 3.2%, recycling 3%, municipal waste incineration 17.55% and hazardous waste disposal 0.2%.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.zerowaste.org/cfl/IMAGES_A/phase_I_rpt.pdf|title=Compact Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Project Phase I Draft Report Background Research and Program Options|format=pdf}}</ref> ==Design and application issues== The primary purposes of CFL design are high [[electrical efficiency]] and durability. However, there are some other areas of CFL design and operation that are problematic: *Quality of light: A [[phosphor]] emits light in a narrow [[frequency range]], unlike an incandescent filament, which emits the full spectrum, though not all colors equally, of visible light. A mix of phosphors gives a good approximation of [[daylight]] or incandescent light can be reached. However, every extra phosphor added to the coating mix causes a loss of efficiency and increased cost. Good quality consumer CFLs use three or four phosphors to achieve a 'white' light with a [[Color Rendering Index]] (CRI) of around 80, where 100 represents the appearance of colors under daylight or a blackbody (depending on the [[correlated color temperature]]). *Size: CFL light output is roughly proportional to phosphor surface area, and high output CFLs are often larger than their incandescent equivalents. This means that the CFL may not fit well in existing light fixtures. *End of life: A detailed description of the failure modes of fluorescent lamps is given in the [[Fluorescent lamp#Mechanisms of lamp failure at end of life|Fluorescent lamp]] article. Additionally, the electronic ballast may fail since it has a number of component parts; such failures may be accompanied by discoloration or distortion of the ballast enclosure, odors, or smoke. The lamps are internally protected and are meant to fail safely at the end of their lives. Industry associations are working toward advising consumers of the different failure mode of CFLs compared to incandescent lamps, and to develop lamps with inoffensive failure modes.<ref> National Electrical Manufacturer's Association [[NEMA]], ''[http://www.nema.org/stds/LSD40.cfm Failure Modes for Self-Ballasted Compact Fluorescent Lamps]'', white paper no. LSD 40, retrieved 2008-06-26.</ref> *Dimming: Some lamps are labelled for [[Dimmer|Dimming]] control. Using regular CFLs with a dimmer can shorten bulb life and will void the warranty of certain manufacturers.<ref>[http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm GE Lighting FAQ for CFL] retrieved 12 March 2007</ref> According to BC Hydro<ref>[http://www.bchydro.com/business/investigate/investigate3676.html BC Hydro - Power Smart for Business - Lighting Controls]</ref> and Environmental Defense,<ref>[http://www.environmentaldefense.org/page.cfm?tagid=609 Tips for Buying and Using Energy-Efficient Bulbs - Take the Pledge: Switch to Energy-Saving Bulbs - Environmental Defense]</ref> dimmable screw-in fluorescent lamps are now available. Westinghouse claims to have released a dimmer that can dim non-dimmable CFLs.<ref>[http://www.retex.com/resources/westinghouse.htm Westinghouse CFLs]</ref> The dimming range of CFLs is usually between 20% and 90%<ref>http://www.dimmablecfls.com/</ref>. Dimmable CFLs are not a 100% replacement for incandescent fixtures that are dimmed for "mood scenes" such as wall sconces in a dining area. Below the 20% limit, the lamp remain at the approximate 20% level, in other cases it may flicker or the starter circuitry may stop and restart.<ref name=Yau2001>{{cite conference | doi = 10.1109/PESC.2001.954241 | title = Phase-Controlled Dimmable CFL with PPFC and Switching Frequency Modulation | year = 2001 | author = Yau, E.K.F. | volume = 2 | pages = 951 | conference=Power Electronics Specialists Conference (PESC) }}</ref> Above the 80% dim limit, the bulb will generally glow at 100% brightness. Dimmable CFLs have a higher purchase cost than standard CFLs due to the additional circuitry required for dimming. A further limitation is that multiple dimmable CFLs on the same dimmer switch may not appear to be at the same brightness level. *Heat: CFLs get warm in operation, so some CFLs are labelled not to be run base up, since heat will shorten the ballast's lifetime. Some CFLs are unsuitable for use in [[Pendent|pendant]] lamps and especially unsuitable for [[Recessed light|recessed]] lighting fixtures. CFLs intended for use in such fixtures are available.<ref>[http://members.misty.com/don/cfapp.html#r What Compact Fluorescents To Use Where]. Accessed 1 January 2008.</ref> Current recommendations for fully enclosed, unventilated light fixtures (such as those recessed into insulated ceilings), are either to use 'reflector CFLs' (R-CFL)<ref name="DealerGuide">{{cite web | url=http://www.energystar.gov/ia/business/small_business/BM31jan22.pdf | title=A Dealer Guide to ENERGY STAR: Putting Energy into Profits | format=PDF}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=CFL Reflector Products | publisher=Pacific Northwest National Laboratory | date=2007-10-02 | accessdate=2007-12-24 | url=http://www.pnl.gov/rlamps/}}</ref> or to replace such fixtures with those designed for CFLs.<ref name="DealerGuide"/> *Large deployments of CFLs require [[Power factor correction|specialized electronics]] with low levels of electronic distortion to avoid disturbing the electricity supply; unless corrected, electronic ballasts have a low [[power factor]] due to their rectifier input stage. <ref>Anibal T. De Almeida: ''[http://www.homeenergy.org/archive/hem.dis.anl.gov/eehem/93/931113.html Understanding Power Quality]'', ''Home Energy Magazine''</ref> This is usually not a problem with home use because of the few lamps deployed per site and because current drain is less than that of the replaced incandescent lamps. *Time to achieve full brightness: Compact fluorescent lamps may provide as little as 50-80% of their rated light output at initial switch on<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/programs/NLPIP/PDF/VIEW/SR_SB_CFL.pdf|title=National Lighting Product Information Profram (NLPIP) Specifier Reports Screwbase Compact Fluorescent Lamp Products Volume 7 Number [[1 June]] [[1999]] page 11|accessdate=2007-04-13}}</ref> and can take up to three minutes to warm up, and color cast may be slightly different immediately after being turned on.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gelighting.com/na/business_lighting/faqs/cfl.htm|title=GE Lighting Frequently Asked Questions - Compact Fluorescent (CFL): 4. Can I use a CFL in applications where I will be turning the lights on/off frequently?|accessdate=2007-04-13}}</ref> This compares to around 0.1 seconds for incandescent lamps. In practice, this varies between brands/types. It is more of a problem with older lamps, 'warm (color) tone' lamps and at low ambient temperatures. *Infrared signals: Electronic devices operated by [[infrared]] [[remote control]] can interpret the infrared light emitted by CFLs as a signal limiting the use of CFLs near televisions, radios, remote controls, or [[mobile phone]]s.<ref>[http://blogs.consumerreports.org/home/2007/11/cfl-problems.html Can CFLs interfere with electronic equipment?] at ConsumerReports.org. Accessed 1 January 2008.</ref> *Audible noise: CFLs, much as other fluorescent lights, may emit a buzzing sound, where incandescents do not. Such sounds are particularly noticeable in quiet rooms, and can be annoying under these circumstances.{{fact|date=June 2008}} Newer compact fluorescent light bulbs are nearly noiseless, but some poorly made CFLs may still emit a buzzing sound. *Use with timers: Electronic (but not mechanical) timers can interfere with the electronic ballast in CFLs and can shorten their lifespan.<ref>[http://blogs.consumerreports.org/home/2007/11/cfl-problems.html Can CFLs interfere with electronic equipment?] at ConsumerReports.org. Accessed 1 January 2008.</ref> *Fire hazard: Inferior quality electronic components used in some CFLs can cause excessive heat or fire. <ref>[http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml05/05005.html CPSC, Teng Fei Trading Inc. Announce Recall of Energy Saving Light Bulbs]. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission press release. Accessed 1 January 2008.</ref> *Outdoor use: CFLs that are not designed for outdoor use may perform poorly in cold weather; CFLs are available with cold-weather ballasts, which may be rated to as low as -23°C (-10°F).<ref>http://www.cleanairpartnership.org/cleanairguide/terms_definitions.htm</ref>{{Dead link|date=December 2007}}Standard compact fluorescents will fail to operate at low temperatures. Light output drops at low temperatures.<ref>US Dept. of Energy, Greening Federal Facilities, 2nd Edition, '[http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/pdfs/29267-5.4.3.pdf Compact Fluorescent Lighting]'. DOE/GO=102001-1165 page 87. Retrieved 22 February, 2007.</ref> *Differences among manufacturers: There are large differences among quality of light, cost, and turn-on time among different manufacturers, even for lamps that appear identical and have the same [[color temperature]]. *Fluorescent lamps get dimmer over their lifetime,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rightlight6.org/english/proceedings/Session_8/Performance_Standard_and_Inspection_Methods_of_CFL/s08-2p013guan.pdf|title=Topic and Discussions on the Performance Standard and Inspection Methods of CFL|accessdate=2007-04-13}}</ref> so what starts out as an adequate luminosity may become inadequate. In one test by the US Department of Energy of 'Energy Star' products in 2003-4, one quarter of tested CFLs no longer met their rated output after 40% of their rated service life.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.osti.gov/bridge/servlets/purl/881039-K5YRuT/881039.PDF|title=Energy Star Lighting Verification Program (Program for the Evaluation and Analysis of Residential Lighting) Semi-annual report For the period of October 2003 to April 2004|accessdate=2007-04-13}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://mail.mtprog.com/CD_Layout/Day_2_22.06.06/1400-1545/ID133_Banwell_final.pdf|title=Quality Assurance in Energy Star Residential Lighting Programmes|accessdate=2007-04-13}}</ref> ==Efforts to encourage adoption== {{main|Banning of incandescent lightbulbs}} Due to the potential to reduce electric consumption and hence pollution, various organizations have undertaken measures to encourage the adoption of CFLs and other efficient lighting devices. Efforts range from publicity to encourage awareness and make CFLs more widely available, to direct measures to provide CFLs to the public. Some electric utilities and local governments have subsidized CFLs or provided them free to customers as a means of reducing electric demand (and thereby delaying additional investments in generation). More controversially, some governments are considering stronger measures to entirely displace incandescents; some proposed efforts involve tax measures, while others have gone further by instituting bans on future production of incandescent light bulbs. ===Energy Star program=== In the United States and Canada, the [[Energy Star]] program labels compact fluorescent lamps that meet a set of standards for starting time, life expectancy, color, and consistency of performance. The intent of the program is to reduce consumer concerns due to variable quality of products.<ref>''[http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/prod_development/revisions/downloads/cfls/Criteria_CFLs_V4.pdf Energy Star Program Requirements for CFLS Partner Commitments]'', 4th edition, dated 03/07/08, retrieved 2008-06-25.</ref> Those CFLs with a recent Energy Star certification start in less than one second and do not flicker. There is ongoing work in improving the 'quality' ([[Color Rendering Index]]) of their light.<ref>[http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls Energy Star List of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs] is a list of Energy Star qualified CFLs.</ref> ==Notes and references== {{reflist|2}} {{refbegin}} *R. J. Van der Plas, A. B. de Graaff, [http://www-wds.worldbank.org/servlet/WDS_IBank_Servlet?pcont=details&eid=000009265_3960928135927 A comparison of lamps for domestic lighting in developing countries] (Energy Ser. Pap. 6, Industry and Energy Department, World Bank, Washington, DC, 1988). *G. S. Dutt, [http://www.ieiglobal.org/ESDVol1No1/illumination.pdf Illumination and Sustainable Development], Energy Sustain Dev. 1 (1), 23 (1994). {{refend}} ==External links== {{Commons|Compact fluorescent lamp}} *[http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls US government Energy Star's page on fluorescent bulbs] *[http://www.lamprecycle.org/ LampRecycle.org] - for information on recycling spent mercury-containing lamps * [http://www.nofs.navy.mil/about_NOFS/staff/cbl/lumentab.html Typical Lumen Outputs and Energy Costs for Outdoor Lighting] *[http://ledmuseum.home.att.net/spectra7.htm Spectra of Fluorescent Light Bulbs] *[http://www.smartfuelchoices.com/ www.smartfuelchoices.com] - Information on energy saving alternatives *[http://www.snopes.com/medical/toxins/cfl.asp Snopes Urban Legends Archive, regarding mercury exposure from a broken CFL] *[http://www.commoncraft.com/cfl New Light Bulbs in Plain English] 3 minute explanatory video *[http://www.glgi.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Light_bulbs Light Bulbs] from Great Lakes Green Initiative. Differentiates various types of bulbs; considers mercury and recycling issues. *[http://groups.google.com/group/mobilfunk_newsletter/browse_thread/thread/d4934f33f87d412b Email sent to European Parliamentarians: About the negative health effects of low energy light bulbs / CFLs] *[http://www.aircycle.org/ Aircycle.com] - A company specializing in the recycling of environmentally hazardous CFLs {{ArtificialLightSources}} [[Category:Gas discharge lamps]] [[Category:Energy conservation]] [[Category:Recyclable materials]] [[cs:Kompaktní zářivka]] [[da:Sparepære]] [[de:Kompaktleuchtstofflampe]] [[es:Lámpara compacta fluorescente]] [[he:נורת פלואורוסנט קומפקטית]] [[lt:Kompaktiška fluorescencinė elektros lemputė]] [[nl:Spaarlamp]] [[ja:電球形蛍光灯]] [[pl:Świetlówka kompaktowa]] [[ru:Компактная люминесцентная лампа]] [[simple:Compact fluorescent lamp]] [[fi:Energiansäästölamppu]] [[sv:Lågenergilampa]] [[bat-smg:Kompaktėška fluorescentėne alektras lėmpele]]