Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFL) myths answered

Sept. 20, 2009 - PRLog -- The common Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb (CFL) has come a long way since it was first launched, many people have still not made the switch because of fears of mercury or UV light; below is a list of answers to the most common questions.

Do Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) Light bulbs flicker?
The first compact fluorescent light bulbs flickered when they were turned on because it took a few seconds for the ballast to produce enough electricity to excite the gas inside the bulb. Thanks to the refined technology in new compact fluorescent light bulbs, there is now no significant flicker (less than 1 second). However, these bulbs do require a short warm-up period before they reach full brightness, which is why they may appear dim when first turned on. Compact fluorescent bulbs are best used in fixtures that are left on for longer periods of time, rather than in fixtures that are turned off and on frequently.

Do CFLs light bulbs contain more mercury than incandescents ?
All CFLs and fluorescent tubes contain a small amount of mercury, which is key in producing the light. It’s not ideal but incandescents are probably responsible for more mercury emissions than CFLs; burning coal for electricity emits mercury, and incandescents use much, much more energy. CFLs can be safely recycled without the mercury escaping into the atmosphere, and the mercury can be safely recovered. Most local councils have collection points at rubbish dumps where you can safely dispose of old CFL light bulbs.

Can I use a CFL light bulb outside?
Many CFL bulbs can be used outdoors if used in an enclosed fixture. To be certain, look for the package or bulb to say that it can be used outdoors and verify the lowest operating temperature for the area where the product is being used. You can buy such light bulbs at sites like http://www.ilightbulbs.co.uk

Can Compact Fluorescent light bulbs create interference with electronic equipment, such as radios?
Many electronic devices, such as radios, televisions, wireless telephones, and remote controls, use infrared light to transmit signals. Infrequently, these types of electronic devices accidentally interpret the infrared light coming from a compact fluorescent light bulb as a signal, causing the electronic device to temporarily malfunction or stop working. (For example, your television might suddenly change channels.) Fortunately, this only happens when light is produced at the same wavelength as the electronic device signals, which is rare.
To reduce the chance of interference, avoid placing compact fluorescent bulbs near these kinds of electronic devices. If interference occurs, move the bulb away from the electronic device, or plug either the light fixture or the electronic device into a different outlet.

Do CFL light bulbs work with dimmer switches?
Some CFL's work with dimmer switches and some do not. To use a compact fluorescent bulb on a dimmer switch, you must buy a light bulb that's specifically made to work with dimmers. You can go to many of the online retailers of CFL's and they will offer a range of light bulbs that specifically work with dimmer switches.

Do light bulbs (such as compact fluorescent light bulbs) give off hazardous amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light?
Regular fluorescent light bulbs used in your home and office do not produce a hazardous amount of ultraviolet light (UV). Most light sources, including fluorescent bulbs, emit a small amount of UV, but the UV produced by fluorescent light bulbs is far less than the amount produced by natural daylight. (Ultraviolet light rays are the light wavelengths that can cause sunburn and skin damage.)

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