The light output of CFLs will gradually dim over time

Q: Do CFL bulbs have drawbacks that should be considered?A:

Frequent on / off switching will shorten the life of these eco-friendly light bulbs.

CFL bulbs don't tolerate higher temperatures China Led Wall Lights Suppliers well so using them in a fixture that traps heat will reduce their life.

The light output of CFLs will gradually dim over time.

Standard CFLs shouldn't be used in fixtures controlled by a dimmer switch.

CFL bulbs contain mercury, a toxic substance, and must be recycled properly. If a CFL shatters, it should be cleaned up carefully.

CFL bulbs take time to warm up to full output. At normal room temperature, 30-45 seconds is about what to expect. The cooler the room though, the longer it will take.

CFL bulbs used outdoors in cold temperatures will not be as bright.

Screw-in dimmable CFL bulbs are available but their dimming performance is inferior to incandescent and halogen lamps. They have a reduced dimming range and may flicker and cut off at the low end.

Q: What other eco-friendly light bulbs besides CFL bulbs should I consider?A:

High-efficiency halogen lamps are a great choice. These eco-friendly light bulbs, which transform infrared heat into visible light, have hit the market in the last few years. Consider HEHLs where beautiful light quality and / or superior dimmability is desired. Unlike CFL bulbs, halogen lamps last longer when dimmed consistently.

Light emitting diode (LED) light sources are being rapidly developed and show great promise for their high energy efficiency, extremely long life spans and light quality.

Like CFL bulbs, both of these light sources already meet the coming U.S. mandate (starting 1/1/2012) for a 30% increase in energy efficiency for general purpose light bulbs. Q: Are eco-friendly light bulbs a good choice for the dimming fixtures I already use in my home?A: Yes but first, keep in mind that dimming any bulb is an effective way to reduce electricity costs, carbon emissions and waste because even incandescent bulbs will last longer the more frequently they are dimmed.Consider how often these fixtures are lit. If the fixture is lit for more than three hours per day, eco-friendly light bulbs are a smart choice. For maximum energy savings at a reasonable cost, dimmable CFL bulbs are a good choice. High efficiency halogen lamps are preferable if you desire superior light quality and maximum dimmability for great ambiance. Q: When selecting eco-friendly light bulbs, how do I decide the right wattage so I get the amount of light I need?A: Consumers have been buying traditional incandescent bulbs for so long that they've come to think of watts as the amount of light the bulb yields. In fact, "lumens" are the measure of light output at the source, while watts are the amount of electricity consumed.The best way to choose eco-friendly light bulbs is to start by deciding how many lumens will do the job. Then read the package label and choose the lamp with this output.As far as traditional incandescent "A" type lamps, 25 watts equals approximately 210 lumens; 40 watts=500 lumens; 60 watts=850 lumens; 75 watts=1,200 lumens; 100 watts=1,700 lumens; and, finally, 150 watts is equivalent to about 2,800 lumens.Tip: when selecting a CFL, remember that their light output will diminish by about 25% over the bulb's life. Think about buying one with higher initial lumens than required so as their brightness fades (and your eyes age), you'll still have enough light in your space.Q: I'm uncomfortable with the fact that CFL bulbs contain mercury. Are there mercury-free options among eco-friendly light bulbs?A: Yes! High efficiency halogen lamps and LEDs are mercury-free. Q: I hear a lot about LED lights. When are they worth considering?A: Premium quality LEDs from reputable manufacturers are still expensive. For most consumers LEDs only make financial sense in light fixtures that are on at least six to eight hours a day. LEDs might make sense in these situations:

Recessed downlights in kitchens, family rooms or great rooms

Exterior lights on porches or posts or any security lights that are lit from dusk to dawn

Task lamps in home offices or workshops

Under cabinet lights in kitchens

Q: Should I replace all the light bulbs in and around my home with eco-friendly light bulbs?A: No. We think that would be a mistake. Take a hall closet light for example: maybe it gets switched on once every other day for two minutes. Its annual electricity draw is practically nothing. Why spend $5 on a light bulb to replace one that's working just fine and costs almost nothing to operate?Focus on the 3-5 fixtures that are on for at least 2-3 hours every day. Pick these low-hanging fruit - where electricity and pollution savings can be had for a minimal investment. If money is still burning a hole in your pocket and you want to satisfy your eco-conscience, hire a qualified energy auditor to check your home. You'll get a punch list where green investments will make much greater contributions to your savings