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Why should we fit CFLs?

Internationally CFLs have become the lighting source of choice as they are extremely energy efficient. For the homeowner this translates into energy and money savings. Basically, a 14Watt CFL produces the same light as a 60 watt globe. It will also burn effectively more than 8 000 hours - 8 or more times the average lifespan of an incandescent globe. A 20 Watt CFL's output will match that of a 100 Watt globe.

If all South African households switched to CFL's it would save about 1 350 MW- half the electricity generated by a coal-fired power station.

Getting the best from CFLs

To get the best from CFLs remember to:

Use the correct bulb for particular locations. For instance, it is not necessary to use a 20 Watt CFL in an area where bright light is not required.

Not use CFLs in fixtures connected to dimmer switches unless the product packaging with the CFL says it is suitable for this purpose.

Disposing of CFLs

Safe disposal of compact fluorescent lamps

CFLs contain small amounts of mercury and, although they pose no health risks, strategies for their future safe disposal are being considered by Eskom and other authorities.

Typically, a CFL contained about five milligrams of mercury (about one-fifth of the mercury found in a watch battery (25 milligrams). This mercury, approximately the size of the tip of a ballpoint pen, occurs in vapour form within the lamp.

During the course of the lamp's life, the mercury is absorbed into the lamp walls, the metal lamp ends and other bulb components. At the end of the rated life of the bulb, very little of the mercury remains to be released into the environment.

Householders concerned about the disposal of CFLs should place used or broken CFLs in a plastic bag, seal it and place it in their regular refuse container. Bare hands should not be used to pick up a broken CFL. Fragments should be swept up and placed in a sealed bag for disposal. The area should be wiped with a disposable paper towel.

In the absence of legislative requirements the proposed mechanism is being aligned as best as possible with the intent of expected National legislation. Until such time as the necessary legislation and infrastructure is in place for the safe disposal of CFLs, Eskom advises homeowners to use existing electronic waste (eWaste) disposal sites and services. Homeowners should therefore use the precautions they would normally follow when disposing of batteries, oil-based paint or motor oil.

For more information on location of eWaste sites visit www.deat.gov.za