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CFL Exchange FAQs

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  1. What is a CFL?
  2. Why should people use CFLs?
  3. How many CFL light bulbs have been given to homeowners ?
  4. Which lighting in my house uses the most energy and what can I do about it?
  5. Where can I use CFLs?
  6. Is it difficult to switch to CFLs?
  7. Where can I buy them?
  8. How are they packaged?
  9. Are they dimmable?
  10. What precautions should I take when using CFLs in my home?
  11. How should I clean up a broken fluorescent bulb?
  12. Are there any dangers associated with using CFLs?
  13. Would I be saving energy by dimming my incandescent lighting instead of using CFLs?

 

Question: What is a CFL?

A Compact Fluorescent Light bulb, or CFL, is an energy efficient bulb that can replace an incandescent light bulb

Question: Why should people use CFLs?

CFLs use up to 80% less energy than incandescent light bulbs and they last six to ten times longer. This reduces demand on the available energy supply and amounts to cost savings for homeowners in the long term.

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Question: How many CFL light bulbs have been given to homeowners?

Eskom to date has handed out in excess of 40 million, by the end of 2010 this figure will rise to approximately 43.5 million

 

Question: Where can I use CFLs?

You can use a CFL to replace many of your incandescent light bulbs in your home. Most of them come with standard screw-in bases as well as candelabra bases for a variety of decorative light models. There are a lot of shapes, sizes and wattages to meet your needs and tastes.

Question: Is it difficult to switch to CFLs?

No, it's simple. In the vast majority of conversions, it's as easy as screwing in a new light bulb. In some instances, indented lighting may require the base to be adjusted or extended.

Question: Where can I buy them?

CFLs are increasingly available in retail stores and home centres.

Question: How are they packaged?

CFLs are commonly sold in single packages (4 or 6) and are also available in bulk for large conversions.

Question: Are they dimmable?

Not unless it is stated as such on the package.

Question: What precautions should I take when using CFLs in my home?

CFLs can break when dropped or handled roughly. Be careful when removing a bulb from its packaging, installing it or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base (not the glass), and never twist the CFL into a light socket with force.

Question: How should I clean up a broken fluorescent bulb?

  • Open nearby windows to disperse any vapour that may escape.
  • Carefully scoop up the fragments and powder. Do not use your hands as you may cut yourself.
  • Wipe the area clean with a damp disposable paper towel to remove all glass fragments. Do not use a vacuum cleaner as small shards of glass could damage it.
  • Place all fragments in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of them in the same way as you would dispose of batteries, oil-based paint and motor oil

  • by supporting your local utilities' e-waste disposal strategy

or

  • by sealing the CFL in a plastic bag before putting it out with your regular refuse.

Question: Are there any dangers associated with using CFLs?

There are no dangers if they are used as instructed. CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, less than is found in dental fillings and watch batteries.

Question: Would I be saving energy by dimming my incandescent lighting instead of using CFLs?

That is a common misconception about lighting and energy consumption. Although a dimmed incandescent bulb will only give off about 10% of the full light, it will still be using 33% of electricity.

Question: Which lighting in my house uses the most energy and what can I do about it?

Research shows that kitchens, living rooms and outdoor lighting are the three biggest energy guzzlers. Using CFLs in these areas and switching lights off when not in use are the most immediate and inexpensive actions a homeowner can take to save energy.