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{{Short description|Fluorescent lamps with folded tubes, often with built-in ballast}}
{{Redirect|Low-energy light-bulb|other low-energy bulbs|Solid-state lighting}}
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[[Image:Energiesparlampe 01 retouched.jpg|thumb|upright=1.00|The tubular-type compact fluorescent lamp is one of the most popular types among European consumers.]][[Image:Compact-Fluorescent-Bulb.jpg|thumb|upright=1.00|A spiral-type integrated CFL. 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 is the most popular type 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>]]
{{Multiple image
| direction = vertical
| width = 250
| header = Compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) examples
| image1 = Energiesparlampe 01 retouched.jpg
| caption1 = The tubular-form CFL is one of the most popular types in Europe.
| image2 = Compact fluorescent light bulb with GU24 connector.png
| caption2 = CFL with [[GU24 lamp fitting]]
| image3 = Compact fluorescent light bulbs 105W 36W 11W.jpg
| caption3 = Comparison of CFLs with power ratings of 105&nbsp;W, 36&nbsp;W, and 11&nbsp;W
}}
A '''compact fluorescent lamp''' ('''CFL'''), also called '''compact fluorescent light''', '''energy-saving light''' and '''compact fluorescent tube''', is a [[fluorescent lamp]] designed to replace an [[incandescent light bulb]]; some types fit into [[light fixture]]s designed for incandescent bulbs. The lamps use a tube that is curved or folded to fit into the space of an incandescent bulb, and a compact [[electronic ballast]] in the base of the lamp.
 
Compared to general-service incandescent lamps giving the same [[Luminous flux|amount of visible light]], CFLs use one-fifth to one-third the electric power, and last eight to fifteen times longer. A CFL has a higher purchase price than an incandescent lamp, but can save over five times its purchase price in electricity costs over the lamp's lifetime.<ref>{{cite web |title=Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs |publisher=Energy Star |access-date=2010-09-30 |url=http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls |archive-date=2008-09-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080916035448/http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls |url-status=dead }}</ref> Like all fluorescent lamps, CFLs contain toxic [[Mercury (element)|mercury]],<ref>{{cite web |title=CFL Bulbs Have One Hitch: Toxic Mercury |work=NPR |date=15 February 2007 |publisher=National Public Radio |access-date=2007-02-15 |url=https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=7431198 |last1=Shogren |first1=Elizabeth }}</ref> which complicates their disposal. In many countries, governments have banned the disposal of CFLs together with regular garbage. These countries have established special collection systems for CFLs and other hazardous waste.
A '''compact fluorescent lamp''' ('''CFL'''), also known as a '''compact fluorescent light''' or '''energy saving light''' (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 into most existing [[light fixture]]s formerly used for incandescents.
 
The principle of operation remains the same as in other [[Fluorescent lamp#Principles of operation|fluorescent lighting]]: electrons that are bound to mercury atoms are excited to states where they will radiate ultraviolet light as they return to a lower energy level; this emitted ultraviolet light is converted into visible light as it strikes the fluorescent coating.
Compared to general service incandescent lamps giving the same [[luminous flux|amount of visible light]], CFLs use less power, have a longer rated life, but have a higher purchase price. In the United States, a CFL can save over 30 [[United States dollar|US$]] in electricity costs over the lamp's life time compared to an incandescent lamp, and save 2,000 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]], which complicates their disposal.
 
CFLs radiate a different[[spectral lightpower spectrumdistribution]] that is different from that of incandescent lamps. Improved [[phosphor]] formulations have improved the subjectiveperceived color of the light emitted by CFLs, suchso that some sources rate the best '"soft white'" CFLs as subjectively similar in color to standard incandescent lamps.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Masamitsu |first=Emily |date=May 2007 |title=The Best Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs: PM Lab Test | last=Masamitsu | first=Emily | date=May 2007 | periodicalwork=Popular Mechanics | accessdateaccess-date=2007-05-15 |url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/home_journal/home_improvement/4215199.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070426184034/http://www.popularmechanics.com/home_journal/home_improvement/4215199.html |archive-date=April 26, 2007}}</ref>
 
White [[LED lamp]]s compete with CFLs for high-efficiency lighting.<ref name="popularmechanics.com">Amber Angelle, "Will LED Light Bulbs Best Your CFLs and Incandescents?" [http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/environment/will-led-light-bulbs-best-cfls-and-incandescents ''Popular Mechanics'' August 4, 2010] accessed May 30, 2011</ref> [[General Electric]] has since stopped production of domestic CFL lamps in the United States in favour of LEDs.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|title=Say Goodbye. Say Hello.|url=http://www.gereports.com/say-goodbye-say-hello-ge-stops-making-cfls-says-go-go-go-to-leds/|access-date=2016-12-19|date=February 2016|archive-date=2016-10-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022112541/http://www.gereports.com/say-goodbye-say-hello-ge-stops-making-cfls-says-go-go-go-to-leds/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
==History==
[[Image:Old compact fluorescent lamp.JPG|thumb|upright=0.44|right|An early compact fluorescent lamp]]
The parent to the modern fluorescent lamp was invented in the late 1890s by [[Peter Cooper Hewitt]].<ref name="History of Fluorescent Lights">{{Cite news | title=The History of Fluorescent Lights | author=Mary Bellis | year=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"/>
 
== History ==
[[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"/> Circular and U-shaped lamps were devised to reduce the length of fluorescent light fixtures. -
=== Early fluorescent lights ===
The parent to the modern fluorescent lamp was invented in the 1890s by [[Peter Cooper Hewitt]].<ref name="History of Compact Fluorescent Lights">{{Cite news |last=Bellis |first=Mary |date=2007 |title=The History of Fluorescent Lights |website=About.com |access-date=2008-02-13 |url=http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/bl_fluorescent.htm |archive-date=2012-04-27 |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20120427185033/http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/bl_fluorescent.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Cooper Hewitt lamps were used for photographic studios and industries.<ref name="History of Compact Fluorescent Lights" />
 
[[Edmund Germer]], Friedrich Meyer, and Hans Spanner patented a high-pressure vapor lamp in 1927.<ref name="History of Compact 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 Compact Fluorescent Lights" /> Circular and U-shaped lamps were devised to reduce the length of fluorescent light fixtures. The first fluorescent light bulb and fixture were displayed to the general public at the [[1939 New York World's Fair]].
The modern CFL was invented by [[Edward E. 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">{{Cite news | title=Father of the compact fluorescent bulb looks back | 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"/> CFLs have steadily increased in sales volume. Development of fluorescent lamps that could fit in the same volume as comparable incandescent lamps required the development of new, high-efficacy phosphors that could withstand more power per unit area than the phosphors used with older, larger lamps.<ref>Kane and Sell chapter page</ref>
 
=== Development of compact fluorescent lamp ===
==Construction==
[[Image:CFL-wild-large.jpg|thumb|upright=0.61|right|A compact fluorescent lamp used outside of a building.]]
The most important technical advance has been the 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.
 
The spiral CFL was invented in 1976 by [[Edward E. Hammer]], an engineer with General Electric,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://americanhistory.si.edu/lighting/20thcent/invent20.htm#in4|title=Inventing Six Modern Electric Lamps: Compact Fluorescent – The Challenge of Manufacturing |publisher=[[National Museum of American History]] |access-date=18 June 2013}}</ref> in response to the [[1973 oil crisis]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cleveland.com/obituaries/index.ssf/2012/07/edward_e_hammer_of_nela_park_i.html |title=Edward E. Hammer of Nela Park invented compact fluorescent light bulbs: news obituary |last1=Segall |first1=Grant |date=20 July 2012 |website=Cleveland.com |publisher=[[Sun Newspapers]] |access-date=18 June 2013}}</ref> Although the design met its goals, it would have cost GE about $25 million to build new factories to produce the lamps, and thus the invention was shelved.<ref name="Kanellos2007_07_17">{{Cite news |title=Father of the compact fluorescent bulb looks back |first=Michael |last=Kanellos |date=August 2007 |work=CNet News |access-date=2007-07-17 |url=http://www.news.com/Father-of-the-compact-fluorescent-bulb-looks-back/2100-11392_3-6202996.html |archive-date=2008-05-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080511222641/http://www.news.com/Father-of-the-compact-fluorescent-bulb-looks-back/2100-11392_3-6202996.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> The design was eventually copied by others.<ref name="Kanellos2007_07_17" />
There are two types of CFLs: integrated and non-integrated lamps.
 
In 1980, [[Philips]] introduced its model SL*18, which was a screw-in or [[bayonet mount]] lamp with integral magnetic ballast.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Bell |first=John |date=17 March 1983 |title=The Art and Craft of Fluorescent Lamps |magazine=[[New Scientist]] |volume=97 |issue=1349 |page=719}}</ref> The lamp used a folded T4 tube, stable tri-color phosphors, and a mercury [[Amalgam (chemistry)|amalgam]]. This was the first successful screw-in replacement for an incandescent lamp, using new rare earth aluminum lattice phosphors to solve the problem of lumen depreciation that would normally occur quickly in such a thin tube; however, it was not widely adopted, because of its large size, weight (over half a kilogram), pronounced 50&nbsp;Hz flicker and 3-minute warm up time.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Philips SL*18|url=http://www.lamptech.co.uk/Spec%20Sheets/D%20FLCi%20Philips%20SL18%20Mk2%20Prismatic.htm|access-date=2020-12-11|website=www.lamptech.co.uk}}</ref> It was based on the SL1000 prototype from 1976.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Philips SL1000|url=http://www.lamptech.co.uk/Spec%20Sheets/D%20FLCi%20Philips%20SL1000.htm|access-date=2020-12-11|website=www.lamptech.co.uk}}</ref> In 1985, [[Osram]] started selling its model Dulux EL, which was the first CFL to include an electronic ballast.<ref name=Kane2001>{{cite book |first1=Raymond |last1=Kane |first2=Heinz |last2=Sell |year=2001 |title=Revolution in Lamps: A Chronicle of 50 Years of Progress |edition=Second |publisher=The Fairmont Press |isbn=978-0-88173-378-5 |pages=189–190}}</ref>
===Parts===
There are two main parts in a CFL: the gas-filled tube (also called bulb or burner) and the magnetic or electronic [[Electrical ballast|ballast]]. An [[Electric current|electrical current]] from the ballast flows through the gas (mercury vapour), 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.
[[File:Elektronstarterp.jpg|thumb|right| An electronic ballast and permanently attached lamp tube in an integrated compact fluourescent lamp.]]
 
Volume was an issue in CFL development, since the fluorescent lamps had to fit in the same volume as comparable incandescent lamps. This required the development of new, high-efficacy phosphors that could withstand more power per unit area than the phosphors used in older, larger fluorescent tubes.<ref name=Kane2001 />
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 (electrical)|inverter]]. The resulting high frequency, around 40&nbsp;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.
 
=== Mainstream success ===
===Integrated CFLs===
Integrated lamps combine a tube, an [[electronic ballast]] and either an [[Edison screw]] or [[Bayonet mount|bayonet fitting]] in a single CFL unit. These lamps allow consumers to replace incandescent lamps easily with CFLs.
 
In 1995, helical CFLs, manufactured in China by Shanghai Xiangshan, became commercially available. They were first proposed by General Electric, who saw difficulties bending glass tubes into spirals using automated machinery. Xiangshan solved this problem by bending the tubes by hand, made possible by the then-low labor costs in China.<ref name="lamptech">{{cite web|url=http://www.lamptech.co.uk/Spec%20Sheets/D%20FLCi%20Philips%20Tornado.htm |title=Philips Tornado Asian Compact Fluorescent |publisher=Lamptech.co.uk |access-date=18 June 2013}}</ref> Since that time, sales steadily increased.<ref>{{Cite web|date=30 October 2006|title=Barriers to Technology Diffusion: The Case of Compact Fluorescent Lamps|url=https://www.oecd.org/env/cc/37671771.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150912180742/http://www.oecd.org/env/cc/37671771.pdf |archive-date=2015-09-12 |access-date=|website=Organisation For Economic co-Operation And Development}}</ref> The phosphor coating in spiral CFLs is uneven, being thicker at the bottom than at the top, owing to the effect of gravity during the coating process.<ref name="lamptech" /> Although their popularity varied across countries, in China CFLs were the "dominant technology in the residential segment" in 2011.<ref name=McKinsey-2012>{{citation |url=https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/dotcom/client_service/automotive%20and%20assembly/lighting_the_way_perspectives_on_global_lighting_market_2012.ashx |format=PDF |title=Lighting the Way: Perspectives on the global lighting market |edition=Second |date=August 2012 |publisher=McKinsey & Company, Inc. |page=29 |access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref>
Integrated CFLs work well in many standard incandescent light fixtures, which lowers the cost of CFL conversion.
 
=== Competition from LED lighting and commercial decline ===
Special 3-way models and dimmable models with standard bases are available for use when those features are needed.<ref>[http://www.1000bulbs.com/3-Way-CFL/ 3-Way Compact Fluorescents - 1000Bulbs.com]</ref>
 
Philips Lighting ceased research on compact fluorescent lamps in 2008 and began devoting the bulk of its research and development budget to solid-state lighting such as LED lighting.<ref name="FansofLED">{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/28/technology/28led.html|title=Fans of L.E.D.'s Say This Bulb's Time Has Come|date=28 July 2008|work=The New York Times}}</ref>
[[Image:Kompaktleuchtstofflampe.jpeg|thumb|upright=1.00|Non-integrated bi-pin double-turn compact fluorescent lamp]]
[[Image:EVG kompakt-chtaube050410.jpg|thumb|upright=1.00|Non-integrated electronic ballast for compact fluorescent lamps]]
 
The rise of [[LED]] lighting, however, significantly affected CFL sales and production. As a result of decreasing cost and better features, customers increasingly migrated toward LEDs. In India, "nearly 60 per cent of the lighting market ... has been taken over by LEDs" by 2018.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/as-leds-burn-bright-itll-soon-be-lights-out-for-cfl-bulbs/article9838689.ece |title=As LEDs burn bright, it'll soon be lights out for CFL bulbs |first=Rashmi |last=Pratap |date=10 January 2018 |work=The Hindu Business Line |publisher=The Hindu |access-date=12 January 2019}}</ref> [[LED]] prices fell well below US$5 for a basic bulb in 2015.<ref name=NYTimes-GEphaseout>{{cite news |last=Cardwell |first=Diane |date=1 February 2016 |url =https://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/02/business/energy-environment/ge-to-phase-out-cfl-light-bulbs.html?_r=0 |title=G.E. to Phase Out CFL Bulbs |work=The New York Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160216044221/http://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/02/business/energy-environment/ge-to-phase-out-cfl-light-bulbs.html?_r=0 |archive-date=16 February 2016 |url-status=live |access-date=31 August 2016}}</ref> In the United States, CFLs were also facing the possibility of proposed regulations for 2017 that would create difficulty qualifying for the [[Energy Star]] rating.<ref name=NYTimes-GEphaseout /> In early 2016, General Electric announced it would phase out CFL production in the US.<ref name=NYTimes-GEphaseout /><ref name=":0" />
===Non-integrated CFLs===
There are two types of bulbs: bi-pin tubes designed for conventional ballasts and quad-pin tubes designed for electronic ballasts and conventional ballasts with an external starter.
 
On September 1, 2021, the EU banned the export, import, manufacture and sale of all compact fluorescent lamps with integrated ballasts.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ecodesign requirements for light sources and separate control gears|url=https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32019R2020|access-date=2023-06-30|website=eur-lex.europa.eu}}</ref>
The bi-pin tubes contain an integrated starter in the base, which obviates the need for external heating pins, but causes incompatibility with electronic ballasts.
 
<gallery widths="200px" heights="200px">
There are different standard shapes of tubes: single-turn, double-turn, triple-turn, quad-turn, circular, and butterfly.
File:Old compact fluorescent lamp.JPG|Philips SL*18, an early CFL
File:Compact-Fluorescent-Bulb.jpg|A helical integrated CFL, one of the most popular designs in North America since 1995, when a Chinese firm marketed the first successful design<ref name="lamptech" />
</gallery>
 
== Pattern ==
Since the ballasts are placed in the light fixture they are larger and last longer compared to the integrated ones, and they don't need to be replaced when the bulb reaches its end-of-life. Non-integrated CFL housings can be both more expensive and sophisticated.
There are two types of CFLs&nbsp;— integrated and non-integrated lamps, where CFL-i denotes an integrated ballast and CFL-ni denotes a non-integrated ballast. Integrated lamps combine the tube and ballast in a single unit. These lamps allow consumers to replace incandescent lamps easily with CFLs. Integrated CFLs work well in many standard incandescent light fixtures, reducing the cost of converting to fluorescent. [[3-way lamp]]s and dimmable models with standard bases are available.
 
Non-integrated CFLs have the ballast permanently installed in the [[Light fixture|luminaire]], and usually only the fluorescent tube is changed at its end of life. Since the ballasts are placed in the light fixture, they are larger and last longer compared to the integrated ones, and they do not need to be replaced when the tube reaches its end-of-life. Non-integrated CFL housings can be both more expensive and sophisticated. They have two types of tubes: a bi-pin tube designed for conventional ballast, e.g. with G23 or G24d plug-in base, and a quad-pin tube designed for an electronic ballast or a conventional ballast with an external starter. A bi-pin tube contains an integrated starter, which obviates the need for external heating pins but causes incompatibility with electronic ballasts. Non-integrated CFLs can also be installed in a conventional light fixture using an adapter containing a built-in magnetic ballast. The adapter consists of a regular bulb screw, the ballast itself and a clip for the lamp's connector.
===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]].
 
[[File:Kompaktleuchtstofflampe.jpeg|thumb|upright|Non-integrated bi-pin double-turn CFL with G24d plug-in base]]
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.
[[File:Elektronstarterp.jpg|thumb|An electronic ballast and permanently attached tube in an integrated CFL]]
CFLs have two main components: a magnetic or electronic ballast and a gas-filled tube (also called bulb or burner). Replacement of magnetic [[Electrical ballast|ballast]]s with electronic ballasts has removed most of the flickering and slow starting traditionally associated with fluorescent lighting, and has allowed the development of smaller lamps directly interchangeable with more sizes of incandescent light bulb.
 
Electronic ballasts contain a small circuit board with a [[bridge rectifier]], a filter [[capacitor]] and usually two switching [[transistor]]s, which are often [[insulated-gate bipolar transistor]]s. The incoming AC current is first [[rectification (electricity)|rectified]] to DC, then converted to high frequency AC by the transistors, connected as a resonant series DC to AC [[inverter (electrical)|inverter]]. The resulting high frequency is applied to the lamp tube. Since the resonant converter tends to stabilize lamp current (and light emitted) over a range of input voltages, standard CFLs respond poorly in dimming applications and will experience a shorter lifespan and sometimes catastrophic failure. Special electronic ballasts (integrated or separate) are required for dimming service.
==Comparison with incandescent lamps==
 
===Lifespan===
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.
The average rated life of a CFL is between 8 and 15 times that of incandescents.<ref>[http://www.nef.org.uk/energysaving/lowenergylighting.htm The National Energy Foundation - Low Energy Lighting - How to Save with CFLs]</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 5,000 hours.<ref>[http://www.amazon.com/Rough-Service-Light-Bulbs-4-Pack/dp/B002XPB7AW Rough Service Incandescent Bulbs - 5,000 hour average life]</ref><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|5-10% less light output than normal bulbs]].<ref>[http://www.smarthome.com/903303.html Light output of long-life incandescent lamps]</ref> For example, an SLI 150W rough-service bulb with a life of 20,000 hours outputs only 1620 lumens instead of 1700 lumens for an efficient normal life bulb.<ref>[http://www.havells-sli.com/cat_lamps.php SLI lighting - lamps]</ref>
To fit enough phosphor coated area within the approximate overall dimensions of an incandescent lamp, standard shapes of CFL tube are a helix with one or more turns, multiple parallel tubes, circular arc, or a butterfly.
 
Some CFLs are labeled not to be run base up, since heat will shorten the ballast's life. Such CFLs are unsuitable for use in [[pendant light]]s and especially unsuitable for [[recessed light]] fixtures. CFLs designed 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 |access-date=2007-10-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170430211128/https://www.energystar.gov/ia/business/small_business/BM31jan22.pdf |archive-date=2017-04-30 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=CFL Reflector Products |publisher=Pacific Northwest National Laboratory |date=2007-10-02 |access-date=2007-12-24 |url=http://www.pnl.gov/rlamps/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071221002446/http://www.pnl.gov/rlamps/ |archive-date=December 21, 2007}}</ref> [[cold-cathode fluorescent lamp|cold-cathode CFL]]s or to replace such fixtures with those designed for CFLs.<ref name="DealerGuide" /> A CFL will thrive in areas that have good airflow, such as in a table lamp.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/resources/newsroom/pr_story.asp?id=162 |title=Press Releases {{pipe}} LRC Newsroom |publisher=Lrc.rpi.edu |date=2009-03-16 |access-date=2012-07-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120724011821/http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/resources/newsroom/pr_story.asp?id=162 |archive-date=2012-07-24}}</ref>
 
==Characteristics==
===Spectrum of light===
[[File:Simple spectroscope.jpg|thumb|188px|right|Emitted visible light spectrum of an incandescent lamp (mid) and a CFL (bottom)]]
[[File:Spectral Power Distributions.png|thumb|Characteristic spectral power distributions (SPDs) for an incandescent lamp (left) and a CFL (right). The horizontal axes are in [[nanometer]]s and the vertical axes show relative intensity in arbitrary units. Significant peaks of UV light are present for CFL even if not visible.]]
[[File:CFBulbs.jpg|thumb|upright|A photograph of various lamps illustrates the effect of color temperature differences. From left to right:<br />{{•}} Compact Fluorescent (General Electric, 13&nbsp;W, 6500&nbsp;K)<br />{{•}} Incandescent (Sylvania, 60&nbsp;W, Extra Soft White)<br />{{•}} Compact Fluorescent (Bright Effects, 15&nbsp;W, 2644&nbsp;K<br />{{•}} Compact Fluorescent (Sylvania, 14&nbsp;W, 3000&nbsp;K)]]
CFLs emit light from a mix of [[phosphor]]s, each emitting one band of color with some bands still in the [[ultraviolet]] range as can be seen on the light spectrum. Modern [[fluorescent lamp#Phosphor composition|phosphor designs]] balance the emitted light color, energy efficiency, and cost. Every extra phosphor added to the coating mix improves color rendering but decreases efficiency and increases cost. Good quality consumer CFLs use three or four phosphors to achieve a "white" light with a [[color rendering index]] (CRI) of about 80, where the maximum 100 represents the appearance of colors under daylight or other sources of [[black-body radiation]] such as an [[incandescent light bulb]] (depending on the [[correlated color temperature]]).
 
[[Color temperature]] can be indicated in [[kelvin]]s or [[mired]]s (1 million divided by the color temperature in kelvins). The color temperature of a light source is the temperature of a [[black body]] that has the same [[chromaticity]] (i.e. color) as the light source. A notional temperature, the [[correlated color temperature]], the temperature of a black body that emits light of a hue that to human color perception most closely matches the light from the lamp, is assigned.
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 "close to that of incandescent light bulbs".<ref name="energysavers-turn-off">{{Cite web
|title=When to turn off your lights
|url=http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/lighting_daylighting/index.cfm/mytopic=12280
|work=Energy Savers
|publisher=[[United States Department of Energy]]
|date=2009-02-24
|accessdate=2009-07-03}}</ref> The US Energy Star program suggests that fluorescent lamps be left on when leaving a room for less than 15 minutes to mitigate this problem.
 
The color temperature is characteristic of black-body radiation; practical white light sources approximate the radiation of a black body at a given temperature, but will not have an identical spectrum. In particular, narrow bands of shorter-wavelength radiation are usually present even for lamps of low color temperature ("warm" light).<ref>[http://www.palagems.com/gem_lighting2.htm Buying and Selling Gems:What Light is Best? Part II: Artificial Light – The Options Available] See figures 6 and 7</ref>
CFLs produce less light later in their life than when they are new. The light output decay is [[Exponential decay|exponential]], with the fastest losses being soon after the lamp is 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 Performance Standard and Inspection Methods of CFL]</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 | month=March | year=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 | month=December | year=1997 | work=Tone Mapping Techniques and Color Image Difference in Global Illumination | publisher=Institut für Computergraphik eingereicht an der Technischen Universität Wien | 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>
 
As color temperature increases, the shading of the white light changes from red to yellow to white to blue. Color names used for modern CFLs and other tri-phosphor lamps vary between manufacturers, unlike the standardized names used with older halophosphate fluorescent lamps. For example, Sylvania's Daylight CFLs have a color temperature of 3500&nbsp;K, while most other lamps called ''daylight'' have color temperatures of at least 5000&nbsp;K. In United States, [[Energy Star]]'s specification provides a set of named color temperatures for certified luminaries.
===Energy efficiency ===
[[Image:Electricity use by lightbulb type.svg|thumb|upright=1.94|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 20 to 33 percent of the power of equivalent [[incandescent lamp]]s.<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, widespread use of CFLs could save as much as 7% of total US household usage.<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>
 
{| class="wikitable"
|+Energy Star color temperatures<ref>{{cite web|title=Energy Star Program Requirements Product Specification for Luminaires 2.0|url=https://www.energystar.gov/sites/default/files/Luminaires%20V2%200%20Final_0.pdf|access-date=4 June 2017}}</ref>{{rp|26}}
|+ Electrical power of lights with approximate equivalent [[luminous power]]<ref>http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls_lumens</ref>
|-
! rowspan=2 | Name
! Characteristic luminous power (lumens) || CFL power (W) || Incandescent power (W)
! colspan=2 | Color temperature
|-
! ([[Kelvin|K]])
| 450 || 9–13 || 40
! ([[Mired]])
|-
| Soft white ||style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|2700|hexval}}"| 2700 || 370
| 800 || 13–15 || 60
|-
| Warm white ||style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|3000|hexval}}"| 3000 || 333
| 1,100 || 18–25 || 75
|-
| Neutral White ||style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|3500|hexval}}"| 3500 || 286
| 1,600 || 23–30 || 100
|-
| Cool white
| 2,600 || 30–52 || 150
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|4050|hexval}}"|4000&mdash;4100
| 250&mdash;243
|-
| Daylight
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|5750|hexval}}"|5000&mdash;6500
| 200&mdash;154
|}
====Heating and cooling ====
If a building's indoor incandescent lamps are replaced by CFLs, the heat produced due to lighting will be reduced. At times when the building requires both heating and lighting, the [[central heating|heating system]] will make up the heat. If the building requires both illumination and cooling, then CFLs also reduce the load on the [[Air conditioning|cooling system]] compared to incandescent lamps, resulting in two concurrent savings in electrical power. Overall energy cost saving depends on the climate; increased heating energy demand offsets some of the lighting energy saved.<ref>http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/odpub/pdf/65830.pdf</ref>
 
===Lifespan===
====Efficacy and efficiency====
CFLs typically have a rated [[service life]] of 6000–15,000 hours, whereas standard [[Incandescent light bulb#Voltage, light output, and lifetime|incandescent lamps have a service life]] of 750 or 1000 hours.<ref>General Electric ''Incandescent lamps TP110'', technical pamphlet published in 1976, no ISBN or Library of Congress number, page 8</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Osram Dulux EL Energy-Saving Lamps |publisher=Osram |access-date=2007-12-24 |url=http://www.osram.com/pdf/products/general/duluxsortiment.pdf |archive-date=2006-07-22|archive-url=https://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 Labelling and Appliance Standards Program |access-date=2007-12-24 |url=http://www.clasponline.org/teststandard.php?no=82|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080226083943/http://www.clasponline.org/teststandard.php?no=82|archive-date=February 26, 2008}}</ref> However, the actual 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.<ref>{{cite web|last=Damir|first=B|title=Longevity of light bulbs and how to make them last longer|url=http://www.robaid.com/gadgets/longevity-of-light-bulbs-and-how-to-make-them-last-longer.htm|publisher=RobAid|access-date=4 January 2013|date=2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150819081553/http://www.robaid.com/gadgets/longevity-of-light-bulbs-and-how-to-make-them-last-longer.htm|archive-date=19 August 2015}}</ref>
{{Detail|Luminous efficacy}}
A typical CFL is in the range of 17 to 21% efficient at converting electric power to radiant power based on 60 to 72 lumens per watt source efficacy, and 347 lumens per radiant watt luminous efficacy of radiation for a tri-phosphor spectrum.<ref>{{Cite journal | first=Yoshi | last=Ohno | contribution=Color Rendering and Luminous Efficacy of White LED Spectra | title=Proc. of SPIE (Fourth International Conference on Solid State Lighting) | volume=5530 | publisher=SPIE, Bellingham, WA | doi=10.1117/12.565757 | year=2004 | url=http://physics.nist.gov/Divisions/Div844/facilities/photo/Publications/OhnoSPIE2004.pdf|format=PDF | pages=88}}</ref> Because the eye's sensitivity changes with the wavelength, the output of lamps is commonly measured in [[Lumen (unit)|lumens]], a measure that accounts for the effect of the source's spectrum on the eye. The [[luminous efficacy]] of CFL sources is typically 60 to 72 lumens per watt, versus 8 to 17 lm/W for incandescent lamps.<ref name=EFI-Conventional>{{cite web | url=http://www.energyfederation.org/consumer/default.php/cPath/25_44_784 | title=Conventional CFLs | publisher=Energy Federation Incorporated | accessdate=2008-12-23}}</ref>
 
The life of a CFL is significantly shorter if it is turned on and off frequently or is used in a totally enclosed fixture. This happens because the electrodes in a CFL undergo sputtering every time it is turned on; this also happens in fluorescent tubes. Material from the electrodes is ejected every time sputtering occurs and it is deposited on the fluorescent tube's walls, showing as lamp end darkening. In the case of a 5-minute on/off cycle the lifespan of some CFLs may be reduced to that of incandescent light bulbs. The US [[Energy Star]] program suggests that fluorescent lamps be left on when leaving a room for less than 15 minutes to mitigate this problem.<ref name="energysavers-turn-off">{{cite web |title=When to turn off your lights |url=https://energy.gov/energysaver/when-turn-your-lights |work=Energy Saver |publisher=[[United States Department of Energy]] |access-date=2017-07-22}}</ref> CFLs emit less light later in their lives than when they are new. The light output decay is [[exponential decay|exponential]], with the fastest losses being soon after the lamp is first used. By the end of their lives, CFLs can be expected to emit 70–80% of their original light output.<ref>{{cite conference |last1=Guan |first1=Fumin |last2=Reynolds |first2=Dale |date=May 2005 |title=Topic and Discussions on the Performance Standard and Inspection Methods of CFL |url=http://www.rightlight6.org/english/proceedings/Session_8/Performance_Standard_and_Inspection_Methods_of_CFL/f013guan.doc |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070923124410/http://www.rightlight6.org/english/proceedings/Session_8/Performance_Standard_and_Inspection_Methods_of_CFL/f013guan.doc |archive-date=September 23, 2007 |conference=Right Light 6: 6th International Conference on Energy-Efficient Lighting |conference-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070708071826/http://www.rightlight6.org/english}}</ref> The response of the human eye to light is [[Logarithmic scale|logarithmic]]. That is, while the human eye is highly sensitive to changes in the intensity of faint light sources, it is less sensitive to changes in the intensity of brighter light sources since the pupils compensate by dilating or constricting.<ref>{{cite news |last=Halsted |first=Charles P. |date=March 1993 |url=http://www.crompton.com/wa3dsp/light/lumin.html |title=Brightness, Luminance, and Confusion |access-date=2007-10-07 |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. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070922063502/http://www.crompton.com/wa3dsp/light/lumin.html |archive-date=September 22, 2007}}</ref> So, presuming the illumination provided by the lamp was ample at the beginning of its life, and the light output of a bulb gradually decreases by 25%, viewers will perceive a much smaller change in light intensity.<ref>{{cite thesis |type=PhD |last=Matković |first=Krešimir |date=December 1997 |url=http://www.cg.tuwien.ac.at/research/theses/matkovic/node15.html |title=Colour Science Basics: Human Vision |access-date=2007-10-07 |work=Tone Mapping Techniques and Color Image Difference in Global Illumination |publisher=Institut für Computergraphik eingereicht an der Technische Universität Wien ([[TU Wien]]) |quote=It is interesting, that despite 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. |archive-date=2021-06-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609115652/https://www.cg.tuwien.ac.at/research/theses/matkovic/node15.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
====Embodied energy ====
 
While CFLs require more energy in manufacturing than incandescent lamps, this [[embodied energy]] is more than 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>
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 |access-date=2007-04-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927202538/http://www.rightlight6.org/english/proceedings/Session_8/Performance_Standard_and_Inspection_Methods_of_CFL/s08-2p013guan.pdf |archive-date=September 27, 2007}}</ref> so what starts out as an adequate luminosity may become inadequate. In one test by the U.S. Department of Energy, of ''Energy Star'' products in 2003–04, one quarter of tested CFLs no longer met their rated output after 40% of their rated service life.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=O'Rourke |first1=Conan |last2=Zhou |first2=Yutao |year=2006 |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 |access-date=2007-04-13 |doi=10.2172/881039}}</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 |access-date=2007-04-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061209005450/http://mail.mtprog.com/CD_Layout/Day_2_22.06.06/1400-1545/ID133_Banwell_final.pdf |archive-date=December 9, 2006}}</ref>
 
===Energy efficiency===
[[File:Electricity use by lightbulb type.svg|thumb|Energy use for different types of light bulbs operating at different light outputs. Points lower on the graph correspond to lower energy use.]]
{{Further|Luminous efficacy}}
Because the eye's sensitivity changes with the wavelength, the output of lamps is commonly measured in [[Lumen (unit)|lumens]], a measure of the power of light as perceived by the human eye. The [[luminous efficacy]] of lamps is the number of lumens emitted for each watt of electric power used. The [[luminous efficacy]] of a typical CFL is 50–70 lumens per watt (lm/W) and that of a typical incandescent lamp is {{nowrap|10–17 lm/W}}.<ref name=doelighting /> Compared to a theoretical 100%-efficient lamp ({{nowrap|680 lm/W}}), CFL lamps have lighting efficiency ranges of 7–10%,<ref>50/680 = 7%; 70/680 = 10%</ref> versus 1.5–2.5%<ref>10/680 = 1.5%; 17/680 = 2.5%</ref> for incandescents.<ref name="Keefe2007">{{cite web|last=Keefe |first=T. J. |title=The Nature of Light |url=http://www.ccri.edu/physics/keefe/light.htm |publisher=Community College of Rhode Island |access-date=18 September 2010 |date=2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612002847/http://www.ccri.edu/physics/keefe/light.htm |archive-date=June 12, 2010}}</ref>
 
Because of their higher efficacy, CFLs use between one-seventh and one-third of the power of equivalent incandescent lamps.<ref name=doelighting>{{cite web |author=<!-- Unstated --> |title=Lighting |work=Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy |publisher=[[United States Department of Energy]] |url=http://www.eere.energy.gov/basics/buildings/lighting.html |access-date=2 October 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111015092547/http://www.eere.energy.gov/basics/buildings/lighting.html |archive-date=October 15, 2011}}</ref> Of 2010 world total lighting sales, 50 to 70 percent were incandescent.<ref>{{cite press release |author=<!-- Unstated --> |date=1 Dec 2010 |title=Multibillion dollar benefits of global switch to energy-efficient lighting |url=http://www.unep.org/Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?DocumentID=651&ArticleID=6847&l=en&t=long |publisher=[[United Nations Environment Programme]] |access-date=2 October 2011 |archive-date=14 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814025919/http://www.unep.org/Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?DocumentID=651&ArticleID=6847&l=en&t=long |url-status=dead }}</ref> Replacing all inefficient lighting with CFLs would save {{convert|409|TWh|EJ|abbr=off|lk=on}} per year, 2.5% of world electricity use. In the US, it is estimated that replacing all incandescents would save 80 TWh yearly.<ref>{{cite web |title=United States of America |url=http://www.enlighten-initiative.org/portal/CountrySupport/CountryLightingAssessments/tabid/79083/Default.aspx |website=En.lighten |publisher=United Nations Environment Programme |access-date=2 October 2011 |author=<!-- Unstated. --> |date=2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402032922/http://www.enlighten-initiative.org/portal/CountrySupport/CountryLightingAssessments/tabid/79083/Default.aspx |archive-date=April 2, 2012}}</ref> Since CFLs use much less energy than incandescent lamps (ILs), a phase-out of ILs would result in less [[carbon dioxide]] ({{CO2}}) being emitted into the atmosphere. Exchanging ILs for efficient CFLs on a global scale would achieve annual {{CO2}} reductions of 230 Mt (million tons), more than the combined yearly {{CO2}} emissions of the Netherlands and Portugal.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.enlighten-initiative.org/portal/CountrySupport/CLAs/ClimateChangeMitigationBenefits/tabid/79155/Default.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130802043445/http://www.enlighten-initiative.org/portal/CountrySupport/CLAs/ClimateChangeMitigationBenefits/tabid/79155/Default.aspx|url-status=dead|title=Climate Change Mitigation Benefits|archive-date=August 2, 2013|website=www.enlighten-initiative.org}}</ref>
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|+ Electric power equivalents for differing lamps<ref name="estar">{{cite web |url=http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls_lumens |title=Learn About Light Output: Energy Star |publisher=Energystar.gov |access-date=2012-07-15}}</ref>
|-
! rowspan=2 | Minimum [[Luminous flux|light<br />output]] (lumens)
! colspan=3 | Electric power use (watts)
|-
! [[Incandescent light bulb|Incandescent]]
! Compact fluorescent
! [[Light-emitting diode|LED]]
|-
| 450
| 40
| 9–11
| 6–8
|-
| 800
| 60
| 13–15
| 9–12
|-
| 1100
| 75
| 18–20
| 13–16
 
|-
| 1600
| 100
| 23–28
| 15–22
|-
| 2400
| 150
| 30–52
| 24–28
|-
| 3100
| 200
| 49–75
| 30
|-
| 4000
| 300
| 75–100
| 38
|}
{{anchor|Heating and cooling}}
If a building's indoor incandescent lamps are replaced by CFLs, the heat emitted due to lighting is significantly reduced. In warm climates, or in office or industrial buildings where [[air conditioning]] is often required, CFLs reduce the load on the cooling system when compared to the use of incandescent lamps, resulting in savings in electricity in addition to the energy efficiency savings of the lamps. However, in cooler climates in which buildings require heating, the [[central heating|heating system]] must replace the reduced heat from lighting fixtures. In [[Winnipeg]], Canada, it was estimated that CFLs would only generate 17% savings in energy compared to incandescent bulbs, as opposed to the 75% savings that could have been expected without space heating considerations.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/efficient-lighting-equals-higher-heat-bills-study-1.856047 |publisher=[[CBC News]] |title=Efficient lighting equals higher heat bills: study |date=2009-03-04}}</ref>
 
===Cost===
While the purchase price of an integrateda CFL is typically 3 to 103–10 times greater than that of an equivalent incandescent lamp, thea extendedCFL lifetimelasts and8–15 lowertimes energylonger useand willuses moretwo-thirds thanto compensatethree-quarters forless the higher initial costenergy.<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{{cite news |last=Lavelle |first=Marianne |date=19 December 2007 |url=https://www.usnews.com/articles/business/economy/2007/12/19/faq-the-end-of-the-light-bulb-as-we-know-it.html |title=FAQ: The End of the Light Bulb as We Know It]. |work=[[USU.S. News & World Report]], 19 December 2007.}}</ref>
 
CFLs are extremely cost-effective in commercial buildings when used to replace incandescent lamps. Using average U.S. commercial electricity and gas rates for 2006, a 2008 article found that replacing each 75 W incandescent lamp with a CFL resulted in yearly savings of $22 in energy usage, reduced [[HVAC]] cost, and reduced laborlabour to change lamps. The incremental 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 electric rates and, to a lesser extent, also in regions with higher than U.S. 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 | authorlast=Chernoff, |first=Harry | work=EnergyPulse | accessdateaccess-date=2008-03-21 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080220200101/http://www.energypulse.net/centers/article/article_display.cfm?a_id=1655 |archive-date=February 20, 2008}}</ref> However, frequent on-off cycling (turning on and off) of CFLs greatly reduces their lifespan.
 
The current price of CFLs reflects the manufacturing of nearly all CFLs in China, where labour costs less. In September 2010, the [[Winchester, Virginia]], [[General Electric]] plant closed,<ref name=Rourke>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/07/AR2010090706933.html|title=Light bulb factory closes; End of era for U.S. means more jobs overseas|last=Whoriskey|first=Peter|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]|date=2010-09-08|access-date=2011-06-02}}</ref> leaving [[Osram Sylvania]] and the tiny American Light Bulb Manufacturing Inc. the last companies to make standard incandescent bulbs in the United States.<ref>{{cite news |last=Davenport |first=Jim |date=28 March 2011 |url=http://www.nbcnews.com/id/42312925 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200313054826/http://www.nbcnews.com/id/42312925 |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 13, 2020 |title=SC lawmakers take dim view of new light bulbs |work=NBC News}}</ref> At that time, Ellis Yan, whose Chinese company made the majority of CFLs sold in the United States, said he was interested in building a United States factory to make CFL bulbs, but wanted $12.5 million from the U.S. government to do so. General Electric had considered changing one of its bulb plants to make CFLs, but said that even after a $40 million investment in converting a plant, wage differences would mean costs would be 50% higher.<ref name=Rourke />
===Starting time ===
Incandescents reach full brightness a fraction of a second after being switched on. {{As of|2009}}, CFLs turn on within a second, but may still take time to warm up to full brightness.<ref>{{cite web
| url=http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm#flicker
| title=Why does my compact fluorescent light bulb flicker or appear dim when I first turn it on?
| work=Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb (CFL) FAQs
| publisher=GE Lighting
| accessdate=2009-06-15
}}</ref> Some CFLs are marketed as "instant on" and have no noticeable warm-up period,<ref name="EnergyStarFaq-WarmUp">{{cite web
| url=http://energystar.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/energystar.cfg/php/enduser/popup_adp.php?p_faqid=2571&p_created=1148316147
| title=I've noticed some CFLs need a few minutes to warm up, or reach full brightness...
| work=Customer Help FAQ
| publisher=Energy Star
| accessdate=2009-06-15
}}</ref> but others can take up to a minute to reach full brightness,<ref>{{cite web
| url=http://www.fcgov.com/conservation/lighting-faq.php
| title=Why does it take time for CFL bulbs to come up to full brightness?
| work=Efficient Lighting FAQs
| publisher=City of Fort Collins
| accessdate=2009-06-15
}}</ref> or longer in very cold temperatures. Some, that use a mercury [[amalgam (chemistry)|amalgam]], can take up to three minutes to reach full output.<ref name="EnergyStarFaq-WarmUp"/> This and the shorter life of CFLs when turned on and off for short periods may make CFLs less suitable for applications such as motion-activated lighting.
 
According to an August 2009 newspaper report, some manufacturers claimed that CFLs could be used to replace higher-power incandescent lamps than justified by their light output.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/eu/6110547/Energy-saving-light-bulbs-offer-dim-future.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/eu/6110547/Energy-saving-light-bulbs-offer-dim-future.html |archive-date=2022-01-12 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Energy saving light bulbs offer dim future |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2009 |first1=Richard |last1=Gray |first2=Julia |last2=McWatt}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Equivalent wattage claims can be replaced by comparison of actual light output emitted by the lamp, which is measured in lumens and marked on the packaging.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/09/113 |title=Section III.3 |publisher=Europa.eu |access-date=2012-07-15}}</ref>
==Comparison with alternative technologies==
[[File:Compact fluorescent lamp wall mounted.JPG|thumb|Compact fluorescent lamp with wall-mounted holder]]
[[Solid-state lighting]] has already filled a few specialist niches such as [[Traffic lights#Optics and lighting|traffic lights]] and may compete with CFLs for house lighting as well. [[LED lamp]]s presently have efficiencies of 30% with higher levels attainable. LEDs providing over 150&nbsp;[[Luminous efficacy|lm/W]] have been demonstrated in laboratory tests,<ref>
{{cite web
| url=http://www.cree.com/press/press_detail.asp?i=1227101620851
| title=Cree Achieves 161 Lumens per Watt from a High-Power LED
| publisher=CREE
| accessdate=2009-01-30}}</ref> and expected lifetimes of around 50,000 hours are typical. The luminous efficacy of available LED fixtures does not typically exceed that of CFLs. Everyday operating temperatures are usually higher than those used to rate the LEDs, their driving circuitry loses some power, and, to reduce costs, LEDs are often driven at their brightest rather than their most efficient point. DOE testing of commercial LED lamps designed to replace incandescent or CFL lamps showed that average efficacy was still about 31 lm/W in 2008 (tested performance ranged from 4&nbsp;lm/W to 62&nbsp;lm/W).<ref>
{{Cite book
| title=DOE Solid-State Lighting CALiPER Program Summary of Results: Round 6 of Product Testing.
| publisher=U.S. Department of Energy
| date=September 2008
| url=http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/publications/pdfs/ssl/caliper_round_6_summary_final.pdf
| format=PDF}}</ref>
As of 2007, LED lamp fixtures also did not deliver the intensity of light output required for domestic uses at a reasonable cost.<ref>
{{Cite news
| 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
| doi=10.1016/S0262-4079(07)60805-7}}</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}}</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>
 
===Failure===
General Electric in 2007 announced a high-efficiency incandescent bulb, which was said to ultimately produce the same lumens per watt as fluorescent lamps. GE has since discontinued development.<ref>[http://www.cleanbreak.ca/2008/11/26/ge-suspends-development-of-high-efficiency-incandescent/ GE Suspends Development of High efficiency Incandescent], retrieved July 25, 2009</ref> Meanwhile other companies have developed and are selling incandescents that use 70% as much energy as standard incandescents.<ref>http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/06/business/energy-environment/06bulbs.html?_r=2&pagewanted=all</ref>
In addition to the wear-out failure modes common to all fluorescent lamps, the electronic ballast may fail, since it has a number of component parts. Ballast failures are usually due to overheating and may be accompanied by discoloration or distortion of the ballast enclosure, odors, or smoke.<ref>[http://www.halifax.ca/fire/documents/CFL.pdf Compact Fluorescent Lights], Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130520234142/http://www.halifax.ca/fire/documents/CFL.pdf |date=May 20, 2013}}</ref> 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 modes 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] (requires account) {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322051655/http://www.nema.org/stds/LSD40.cfm |date=March 22, 2012 |url-status=dead}}'', white paper no. LSD 40, retrieved 2008-06-26.</ref> New North American technical standards aim to eliminate smoke or excess heat at the end of lamp life.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.csa.ca/cm/ca/en/news/article/new-household-light-standard-addresses-consumer-concerns |title=New household lamp standards, discusses co-ordinated U.S., Mexico and Canada standard UL 1993, retrieved 2009 Dec 3 |publisher=Csa.ca |access-date=2012-07-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315092721/http://www.csa.ca/cm/ca/en/news/article/new-household-light-standard-addresses-consumer-concerns |archive-date=2012-03-15}}</ref>
 
===Dimming===
== Other CFL technologies ==
[[File:Dimmable CFL.jpg|thumb|upright|Dimmable integrated helical CFL that dims 2–100%, comparable to standard light bulb dimming properties]]
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, and establishing an internationally recognized standard and problems with [[Electromagnetic compatibility|EMC]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.miserlighting.com/uploads/documents/HowItWorks.pdf |format=PDF| publisher=Miser Lighting Inc. | title=''How It Works''}}</ref> and [[Electromagnetic interference|RFI]]. Furthermore, induction lighting is excluded from Energy Star standard for 2007 by the EPA.
Only some CFLs are labeled for [[Dimmer|dimming]] control. Using a dimmer with a standard CFL is ineffective and can shorten bulb life and void the warranty.<ref>[http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm GE Lighting FAQ for CFL] retrieved 12 March 2007 {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120626145829/http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm |date=June 26, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls_warranty|title=CFL Warranty: Energy Star|website=www.energystar.gov|access-date=2019-12-18|archive-date=2020-03-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200316215517/https://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls_warranty|url-status=dead}}</ref> Dimmable CFLs are available. The dimmer switch used in conjunction with a dimmable CFL must be matched to its power consumption range;<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Education-Training/Pages/LCE/DimmingCFLsandLEDs.aspx|title=Dimming CFLs and LEDs|website=www.lutron.com}}</ref> many dimmers installed for use with incandescent bulbs do not function acceptably below 40&nbsp;W, whereas CFL applications commonly draw power in the range 7–20&nbsp;W. Dimmable CFLs have been marketed before suitable dimmers are available. The dimming range of CFLs is usually between 20% and 90%,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dimmablecfls.com/ |title=Dimmable CFLs |publisher=Dimmable CFLs |access-date=2012-07-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120621165133/http://www.dimmablecfls.com/ |archive-date=2012-06-21 |url-status=dead}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|failed=y|date=October 2011}} but many modern CFLs have a dimmable range of 2% to 100%, more akin to that of incandescent lights. There are two types of dimmable CFL on the market: Standard dimmable CFLs, and "switch-dimmable" CFLs. The latter use a standard light switch, and the on-board electronics chooses the light output level based on the number of times the switch is turned on and off quickly. Dimmable CFLs are not a 100% replacement for incandescent fixtures that are dimmed for "mood scenes" such as [[Sconce (light fixture)|wall sconce]]s in a dining area. Below the 20% limit, the lamp may remain at 20% or flicker or the starter circuitry may stop and restart.<ref name=Yau2001>{{Cite book |last1=Yau |first1=E. K. F. |last2=Wing-Hung Ki |last3=Mok |first3=P. K. T. |last4=Sin |first4=J. K. O. |chapter=Phase-controlled dimmable CFL with PPFC and switching frequency modulation |title=2001 IEEE 32nd Annual Power Electronics Specialists Conference (IEEE Cat. No.01CH37230) |volume=2 |page=951 |year=2001 |isbn=978-0-7803-7067-8 |doi=10.1109/PESC.2001.954241 |s2cid=109878618}}</ref> Above 80%, the bulb may operate at 100%. However, recent products have solved these problems so that they perform more like incandescent lamps. Dimmable CFLs are more expensive than standard CFLs due to the additional circuitry.
 
[[Cold-cathode fluorescent lamp|Cold-cathode CFL]]s can be dimmed to low levels, making them popular replacements for incandescent bulbs on dimmer circuits.
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 document scanners and also 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).
 
When a CFL is dimmed, its color temperature (warmth) stays the same. This is counter to incandescent light sources, where color gets redder as the light source gets dimmer. The [[Kruithof curve]] from 1934 described an empirical relationship between intensity and color temperature of visually pleasing light sources.{{citation needed|date=June 2012}}
A few manufacturers<ref>www.nexstarlighting.com retrieved January 5, 2009</ref><ref>http://www.maxlite.com/PDFs/FocusSheets/HighMax.pdf retrieved March 29, 2009</ref> make CFL-style bulbs with mogul Edison screw bases intended to replace 250 watt and 400 watt [[metal halide lamp]]s, claiming a 50% energy reduction; however, these lamps require slight rewiring of the lamp fixtures to bypass the lamp ballast.
 
==Spectrum=Power of lightfactor===
[[File:CFL Positive power.png|thumb|right |Voltage and current for a 120 V 60 Hz 30-watt compact fluorescent lamp. Because the current is heavily distorted, the [[power factor]] of this lamp is only 0.61. The lamp takes 29 watts, but 39 [[volt-ampere]]s due to this distortion.]]
[[Image:CFLspectrum.agr.jpg|thumb|upright=1.00|Spectrum of a CFL bulb]]
The input stage of a CFL is a rectifier, which presents a non-linear load to the power supply and introduces [[harmonic distortion]] on the current drawn from the supply.<ref>{{cite journal |first=Ph. N. |last=Korovesis |title=Influence of Large-Scale Installation of Energy Saving Lamps on the Line Voltage Distortion of a Weak Network Supplied by Photovoltaic Station |journal=IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery |volume=19 |issue=4 |pages=1787–1793 |year=2004 |doi=10.1109/TPWRD.2004.835432 |s2cid=19975088 |display-authors=etal |bibcode=2004ITPD...19.1787K }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |first1=J. |last1=Cunill-Solà |first2=M. |last2=Salichs |title=Study and Characterization of Waveforms from Low-Watt (<25 W) Compact Fluorescent Lamps with Electronic Ballasts |journal=IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery |volume=22 |issue=4 |pages=2305–2311 |year=2007 |doi=10.1109/TPWRD.2007.899551 |s2cid=11439733}}</ref> The use of CFLs in homes has no appreciable effect on [[power quality]], but significant quantities of them in a large facility can have an adverse effect. The [[power factor]] of CFLs does not significantly affect their energy-saving benefits for individual consumers, but their use in large numbers, such as in commercial applications or across millions of homes in a distribution system, could require infrastructure upgrades. In such cases, CFLs with low (below 30 percent) [[Harmonics (electrical power)|total harmonic distortion]] (THD) and power factors greater than 0.9 should be selected.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mge.com/business/saving/madison/pa_2.html |title=Compact Fluorescent Lamps |publisher=Mge.com |access-date=2012-07-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120314091500/http://www.mge.com/business/saving/madison/pa_2.html |archive-date=2012-03-14 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>Anibal T. De Almeida: ''[http://www.homeenergy.org/archive/hem.dis.anl.gov/eehem/93/931113.html Understanding Power Quality] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726153320/http://www.homeenergy.org/archive/hem.dis.anl.gov/eehem/93/931113.html |date=2011-07-26 }}'', ''Home Energy Magazine''</ref><ref>{{Cite report |url=http://www.energy.ca.gov/2007_energypolicy/documents/2007-06-19_workshop/comments/1-Fernstrom_PGE_Residential-Lighting-Improvement-Opportunities.pdf |title=Residential Lighting Improvement Opportunities |last=Fernstrom |first=Gary B. |date=June 19, 2007 |publisher=[[California Energy Commission]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120723091715/http://www.energy.ca.gov/2007_energypolicy/documents/2007-06-19_workshop/comments/1-Fernstrom_PGE_Residential-Lighting-Improvement-Opportunities.pdf |archive-date=July 23, 2012 |quote=Joint Committee Workshop on Policies to Improve Residential Lighting Efficiency in California}}</ref>
The [[light]] of CFLs is emitted by a mix of [[phosphor]]s on the inside of the tube, which each emit one color. Modern phosphor designs are a compromise between the shade of the emitted light, energy efficiency, and cost.
 
===Infrared signals===
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 CRI ([[color rendering index]]) of around 80, where 100 represents the appearance of colors under daylight or a black-body (depending on the [[correlated color temperature]]).
Electronic devices operated by [[infrared remote control]] can interpret the infrared light emitted by CFLs as a signal; this may limit the use of CFLs near televisions, radios, remote controls, or [[mobile phone]]s. [[Energy Star]] certified CFLs must meet FCC standards, and so are required to list all known incompatibilities on the package.<ref name=autogenerated1>[http://blogs.consumerreports.org/home/2007/11/cfl-problems.html Can CFLs interfere with electronic equipment?] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101029161424/http://blogs.consumerreports.org/home/2007/11/cfl-problems.html |date=October 29, 2010}} at ConsumerReports.org. Accessed 1 January 2008.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_crit_cfls |title=Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Key Product Criteria: Energy Star |publisher=Energystar.gov |date=2008-12-02 |access-date=2012-07-15 |archive-date=2012-07-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120713030505/http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_crit_cfls |url-status=dead }}</ref>
 
===Outdoor use===
[[Image:CFBulbs.jpg|thumb|upright=0.83|A photograph of various lamps illustrates the effect of color temperature differences (left to right):
[[File:A CFL Light Bulb on a wall in a black lantern in South Carolina.PNG|thumb|upright|A CFL used outside of a building]]
<ol><li>Compact Fluorescent: General Electric, 13&nbsp;W, 6,500&nbsp;K</li>
CFLs are generally not designed or rated for outdoor use and some will not start in cold weather. CFLs are available with cold-weather ballasts, which may be rated to as low as −28.8&nbsp;°C (−20&nbsp;°F).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cleanairpartnership.org/cleanairguide/terms_definitions.htm|title=Coming to Terms with Energy Efficiency and the Environment|publisher=The Clean Air Partnership|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011064253/http://cleanairpartnership.org/cleanairguide/terms_definitions.htm|archive-date=October 11, 2007}}</ref> Light output during the first few minutes of operation is limited at low temperatures before reaching full brightness.<ref>U.S. Dept. of Energy, Greening Federal Facilities, 2nd Edition, '[http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/pdfs/29267-5.4.3.pdf Compact Fluorescent Lighting] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110511132153/http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/pdfs/29267-5.4.3.pdf |date=May 11, 2011}}'. DOE/GO=102001-1165 page 87. Retrieved 22 February 2007. "Even when low-temperature ballasts are used, lamps will not reach full brightness for several minutes in cold weather."</ref> [[Cold-cathode fluorescent lamp|Cold-cathode CFL]]s will start and perform in a wide range of temperatures due to their different design.
<li>Incandescent: Sylvania 60&nbsp;W Extra Soft White</li>
<li>Compact Fluorescent: Bright Effects, 15&nbsp;W, 2,644&nbsp;K</li>
<li>Compact Fluorescent: Sylvania, 14&nbsp;W, 3,000&nbsp;K</li></ol>]]
[[Image:Black light bulb.jpg|thumb|upright=1.00|right|A [[blacklight]] CFL.]]
[[Color temperature]] can be indicated in [[kelvin]] or [[mired]]s (1 million divided by the color temperature in kelvin).
 
===Starting time===
{| class="wikitable"
Incandescent lamps reach full brightness a fraction of a second after being switched on. {{As of|2009}}, CFLs turn on within a second, but many still take time to achieve full brightness.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm#flicker |title=Why does my compact fluorescent light bulb flicker or appear dim when I first turn it on? |work=Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb (CFL) FAQs |publisher=GE Lighting |access-date=2009-06-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090228044819/http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm |archive-date=February 28, 2009}}</ref> The light color 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&nbsp;— Compact Fluorescent (CFL): 4. Can I use a CFL in applications where I will be turning the lights on/off frequently? |access-date=2007-04-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070329191437/http://www.gelighting.com/na/business_lighting/faqs/cfl.htm |archive-date=March 29, 2007}}</ref> Some CFLs are marketed as "instant on" and have no noticeable warm-up period,<ref name="EnergyStarFaq-WarmUp">{{cite web |url=https://energystar.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/212110657-I-ve-noticed-some-CFLs-need-a-few-minutes-to-warm-up-or-reach-full-brightness-Is-there-a-way-to-determine-which-warm-up-fastest- |title=I've noticed some CFLs need a few minutes to warm up, or reach full brightness&nbsp;... |work=Customer Help FAQ |publisher=Energy Star |access-date=2009-06-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324083650/https://energystar.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/212110657-I-ve-noticed-some-CFLs-need-a-few-minutes-to-warm-up-or-reach-full-brightness-Is-there-a-way-to-determine-which-warm-up-fastest- |archive-date=2017-03-24 |url-status=bot: unknown }}</ref> but others can take up to a minute to reach full brightness,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fcgov.com/conservation/lighting-faq.php |title=Why does it take time for CFL bulbs to come up to full brightness? |work=Efficient Lighting FAQs |publisher=City of Fort Collins |access-date=2009-06-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081210045249/http://www.fcgov.com/conservation/lighting-faq.php |archive-date=December 10, 2008}}</ref> or longer in very cold temperatures. Some that use a mercury [[amalgam (chemistry)|amalgam]] can take up to three minutes to reach full output.<ref name="EnergyStarFaq-WarmUp" /> This and the shorter life of CFLs when turned on and off for short periods may make CFLs less suitable for applications such as motion-activated lighting. Hybrid lamps, combining a halogen lamp with a CFL, are available where warm up time is unacceptable.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ledsmagazine.com/home/article/16700874/ge-lighting-to-promote-halogen-cfl-hybrid-bulb-with-target | title=GE Lighting to promote halogen-CFL hybrid bulb with Target | date=5 September 2013 }}</ref> The halogen lamp lights immediately, and is switched off once the CFL has reached full brightness.
![[Color temperature]] !! kelvin !! mired
|-
|'Warm white' or 'Soft white' || ≤&nbsp;3,000&nbsp;[[kelvin|K]] || ≥&nbsp;333&nbsp;[[Mired|M]]
|-
|'White' or 'Bright White' || 3,500&nbsp;K || 286&nbsp;M
|-
|'Cool white' || 4,000&nbsp;K || 250&nbsp;M
|-
|'Daylight' || ≥&nbsp;5,000&nbsp;K || ≤&nbsp;200&nbsp;M
|}
 
== Health and environmental impact ==
Color temperature is a [[Quantitative data|quantitative]] measure. The higher the number in kelvin, 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 3,500&nbsp;K, while most other lamps with a 'daylight' label have color temperatures of at least 5,000&nbsp;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.
{{Main|Fluorescent lamps and health}}
[[File:Closed double envelope compact fluorescent lamp.jpg|thumb|right|Closed double-envelope CFL]]
 
=== General ===
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 kelvin. For example, a CFL with a CRI of 83 and a color temperature of 2,700&nbsp;K would be given a code of 827.<ref>[http://www.eejitsguides.com/environment/esbulbs.html Color Temperature and CRI of Energy Saver Lamps]</ref>
According to the European Commission [[Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks]] (SCENIHR) in 2008, CFLs may pose an added health risk due to the [[ultraviolet]] and blue light emitted. This radiation could aggravate symptoms in people who already suffer skin conditions that make them exceptionally sensitive to light. The light emitted by some single-envelope CFLs at distances of less than {{convert|20|cm|abbr=on}} could lead to ultraviolet exposures approaching the current workplace limit set to protect workers from skin and retinal damage. However, industry sources claim the UV radiation received from CFLs is too small to contribute to skin cancer and the use of double-envelope CFLs "largely or entirely" mitigates any other risks.<ref name="GreenFacts">{{cite web |title=Energy-Saving Lamps & Health |publisher=GreenFacts site |access-date=2009-06-10 |url=http://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/energy-saving-lamps/}}</ref>
 
Tests have shown that radiation exposure from CFLs is negligible at 150 centimeter distance from the source. At closer distances, comparisons show that CFLs emit less UVA (long wavelength) radiation than incandescent light bulbs. They do, however, emit higher levels of UVB (short wavelength) radiation.<ref name="PubMed">{{cite journal|title=Ultraviolet light output of compact fluorescent lamps: comparison to conventional incandescent and halogen residential lighting sources |pmid=19395458 |doi=10.1177/0961203309103052 |volume=18 |issue=6 |journal=Lupus |pages=556–60 |last1=Nuzum-Keim |first1=AD |last2=Sontheimer |first2=RD |year=2009 |s2cid=206597819}}</ref> UVB can penetrate deep into the skin while sufficient levels of UVA can burn superficial layers. Closed (double-envelope) CFLs are shielded and emit a lower total UV radiation compared to incandescent or halogen bulbs of a similar wattage.
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
 
For the average user, UV radiation from indoor lights does not appear to be a concern. For those with skin sensitivity long term indoor exposure may be a concern, in which case they may want to use a bulb with lower UV radiation output. There seems to be more variability within bulb types than between them, but the best option is shielded CFLs.
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.
 
A 2012 study comparing cellular health effects of CFL light and incandescent light found statistically significant cell damage in cultures exposed to CFL light. Spectroscopic analysis confirmed the presence of significant UVA and UVC radiation, which the study's authors conjectured was attributable to damage in the bulbs' internal phosphor coatings. No cellular damage was observed following exposure to incandescent light of equivalent intensity. The study's authors suggest that the ultraviolet exposure could be limited by the use of "double-walled" bulbs manufactured with an additional glass covering surrounding the phosphor-coated layer.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Mironava |first1=T. |last2=Hadjiargyrou |first2=M. |last3=Simon |first3=M. |last4=Rafailovich |first4=M. H. |date=20 Jul 2012 |title=The Effects of UV Emission from Compact Fluorescent Light Exposure on Human Dermal Fibroblasts and Keratinocytes In Vitro |journal=Photochemistry and Photobiology |doi=10.1111/j.1751-1097.2012.01192.x |pmid=22724459 |volume=88 |issue=6 |pages=1497–1506|s2cid=2626216}}</ref>
==Health issues==
{{seealso|Light sensitivity}}
According to the European Commission [[Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks]] (SCENIHR) in 2008, the only property of compact fluorescent lamps that could pose an added health risk is the [[ultraviolet]] and blue light emitted by such devices. The worst that can happen is that this radiation could aggravate symptoms in people who already suffer rare skin conditions that make them exceptionally sensitive to light. They also stated that more research is needed to establish whether compact fluorescent lamps constitute any higher risk than incandescent lamps.<ref name="GreenFacts"/>
 
When the base of the bulb is not made to be flame-retardant, as required in the voluntary standard for CFLs, overheating of the electrical components in the bulb may create a fire hazard.<ref>[http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml05/05005.html CPSC, Teng Fei Trading Inc. Announce Recall of Energy Saving Light Bulbs] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130108185759/http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml05/05005.html |date=January 8, 2013}}. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission press release. Accessed 1 January 2008.</ref>
If individuals are exposed to the light produced by some single-envelope compact fluorescent lamps for long periods of time at distances of less than 20&nbsp;cm, it could lead to ultraviolet exposures approaching the current workplace limit set to protect workers from skin and retinal damage.<ref name="GreenFacts"/>
 
=== Mercury content ===
The UV received from CFLs is too small to contribute to skin cancer and the use of double-envelope CFL lamps "largely or entirely" mitigates any other risks, they say.<ref name="GreenFacts">{{cite web | title=Energy-Saving Lamps & Health| publisher=GreenFacts Website | accessdate=2009-06-10 | url=http://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/energy-saving-lamps/index.htm}}</ref>
[[File:Mercury emissions by light source EPA 2008.svg|thumb|upright|Net mercury emissions for CFL and incandescent lamps, based on EPA FAQ sheet, assuming average U.S. emission of 0.012 mg of mercury per kilowatt-hour and 14% of CFL mercury contents escapes to environment after land fill disposal]]
CFLs, like all [[fluorescent lamp]]s, contain [[Mercury (element)|mercury]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.informinc.org/fact_P3NJlampcontract.php |title=Mercury Content Information Available for Lamps on the 2003 New Jersey Contract T-0192 |access-date=2007-05-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051230010537/http://www.informinc.org/fact_P3NJlampcontract.php |archive-date=2005-12-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ccme.ca/assets/pdf/merc_lamp_standard_e.pdf |title=Canada-Wide Standard for Mercury-Containing Lamps |access-date=2007-03-23 |date=2001 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060812071611/http://www.ccme.ca/assets/pdf/merc_lamp_standard_e.pdf |archive-date=August 12, 2006}}</ref> as vapor inside the glass tubing. Most CFLs contain 3–5&nbsp;mg per bulb, with the bulbs labeled "eco-friendly" containing as little as 1&nbsp;mg.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/Fact_Sheet_Mercury.pdf |title=Frequently Asked Questions Information on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and Mercury June 2008 |access-date=2008-08-31 |date=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Mercury in Fluorescent Lamps |url=http://www.efi.org/factoids/mercury.html |publisher=Energy Federation Incorporated |work=FAQ |access-date=2009-07-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090810203903/http://www.efi.org/factoids/mercury.html |archive-date=2009-08-10}}</ref> Because [[Mercury poisoning|mercury is poisonous]], even these small amounts are a concern for [[landfill]]s and waste [[incinerator]]s where the mercury from lamps may be released and contribute 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 |access-date=2007-03-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070715223143/http://nema.org/media/pr/20070313a.cfm |archive-date=July 15, 2007}}</ref> In the EU the same cap is required by the [[RoHS]] law.
 
In areas where electric power is mostly generated in coal-fired stations, replacing incandescent bulbs by CFLs actually reduces mercury emissions. This is because the reduced electric power demand, reducing in turn the amount of mercury released by coal as it is burned, more than offsets the amount of mercury released from broken and discarded CFL bulbs.<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)|access-date=2007-03-19}}</ref> In July 2008 the U.S. EPA published a data sheet stating that the net system emission of mercury for CFL lighting was lower than for incandescent lighting of comparable lumen output. This was based on the average rate of mercury emission for U.S. electricity production and average estimated escape of mercury from a CFL put into a landfill.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/Fact_Sheet_Mercury.pdf |title=''Frequently Asked Questions Information on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and Mercury July 2008'', accessed 2009 Dec 22 |access-date=2012-07-15}}</ref> Coal-fired plants also emit other heavy metals, sulfur, and carbon dioxide.
==Environmental issues==
===Mercury emissions===
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
|format=PDF|title=Canada-Wide Standard for Mercury-Containing Lamps
|accessdate=2007-03-23
|year=2001
}}</ref> as vapor inside the glass tubing. Most CFLs contain 3 – 5&nbsp;mg per bulb, with some brands containing as little as 1&nbsp;mg.<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/Fact_Sheet_Mercury.pdf
|title=Frequently Asked Questions Information on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and Mercury June 2008
|accessdate=2008-08-31
|year= 2008
}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
|title=Mercury in Fluorescent Lamps
|url=http://www.efi.org/factoids/mercury.html
|publisher=Energy Federation Incorporated
|work=FAQ
|accessdate=2009-07-02}}</ref> Because [[Mercury poisoning|mercury is poisonous]], even these small amounts are a concern for [[landfill]]s and [[Incinerator|waste incinerators]] where the mercury from lamps may be released and contribute 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> In the EU the same cap is required by the [[RoHS]] law.
 
In the United States, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimated that if all 270&nbsp;million CFLs sold in 2007 were sent to landfill sites, around 0.13 metric tons of mercury would be released, 0.1% of all U.S. emissions of mercury (around 104 metric tons that year).<ref name="hgsheet">{{cite web|website=energystar.gov|url=https://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/fact_sheet_mercury.pdf|title=Frequently Asked Questions: Information on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and Mercury|quote=What are the mercury emissions caused by humans? Do CFLS that wind up in a landfill contribute to these emissions?|date=November 2010|access-date=2017-03-23}}</ref>
In areas with coal-fired power stations, the use of CFLs saves on mercury emissions when compared to the use of incandescent bulbs. This is due to the reduced electrical power demand, reducing in turn the amount of mercury released by coal as it is burned.<ref>[http://www.popularmechanics.com/blogs/home_journal_news/4217864.html Compact Fluorescent Bulbs and Mercury: Reality Check]. [[Popular Mechanics]], 11 June 2007.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/Fact_Sheet_Mercury.pdf|format=PDF|title=Frequently Asked Questions, Information on Proper Disposal of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs)|accessdate=2007-03-19}}</ref> In July 2008 the US EPA published a data sheet stating that the net system emission of mercury for CFL lighting was lower than for incandescent lighting of comparable lumen output. this was based on the average rate of mercury emission for US electricity production and average estimated escape of mercury from a CFL put into a landfill. <ref>http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/change_light/downloads/Fact_Sheet_Mercury.pdf ''Frequently Asked Questions Information on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and Mercury July 2008'', accessed 2009 Dec 22 </ref> Coal-fired plants also emit other heavy metals, sulfur, and carbon dioxide.
The graph assumes that CFLs last an average of 8,000 hours regardless of manufacturer and premature breakage. In areas where coal is not used to produce energy, the emissions would be less for both types of bulb.<ref name="hgsheet" /><!-- Surprise: same thing -->
 
Special handling instructions for breakage are not printed on the packaging of household CFL bulbs in many countries. The amount of mercury released by one bulb can temporarily exceed U.S. federal guidelines for chronic exposure.<ref>{{ cite news |url=https://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/02/26/mercury_leaks_found_as_new_bulbs_break/?page=1 |title=Mercury leaks found as new bulbs break |work=The Boston Globe |last=Daley |first=Beth |date=February 26, 2008 |access-date=2009-03-07}}</ref><ref name="maine.gov">{{cite web |url=http://maine.gov/dep/rwm/homeowner/cflreport.htm |title=Maine Compact Fluorescent Lamp Breakage Study Report |date=February 2008 |access-date=2009-03-07 |publisher=State of Maine, Dept of Environmental Protection}}</ref> ''Chronic'', however, implies exposure for a significant time, and it remains unclear what the health risks are from short-term exposure to low levels of elemental mercury.<ref name="maine.gov" /> Despite following EPA best-practice clean-up guidelines on broken CFLs, researchers were unable to remove mercury from carpet, and agitation of the carpet&nbsp;— such as by young children playing&nbsp;— created localized concentrations as high as 0.025&nbsp;mg/m<sup>3</sup> in air close to the carpet, even weeks after the initial breakage.<ref name="maine.gov" />
[[File:Mercury emissions by light source EPA 2008.svg|thumb|upright=2.00|right| Net mercury emissions for CFL and incandescent lamps, based on EPA FAQ sheet, assuming average US emission of 0.012 mg of mercury per kilowatthour and 14% of CFL mercury contents escapes to environment after land fill disposal.]]
 
The [[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) has published best practices for cleanup of broken CFLs, and ways to avoid breakage, on its web site.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.epa.gov/mercury/cleaning-broken-cfl |title=Cleaning Up a Broken CFL |date=6 June 2013 |access-date=18 June 2013 |publisher=[[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] |archive-date=7 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211207223532/https://www.epa.gov/cfl/cleaning-broken-cfl |url-status=live }}</ref> It recommends airing out the room and carefully disposing of broken pieces in a jar. A Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) study of 2008 comparing clean-up methods warns that using plastic bags to store broken CFL bulbs is dangerous, because vapors well above safe levels continue to leak from the bags. The EPA and the Maine DEP recommend a sealed glass jar as the best repository for a broken bulb.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.maine.gov/dep/rwm/homeowner/cflreport.htm |title= Maine Compact Fluorescent Light Breakage Study Report |date=February 2008 |access-date=2011-07-18 |publisher= Maine Department of Environmental Protection}}</ref>
In the United States, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimated that if all 270&nbsp;million compact fluorescent lamps sold in 2007 were sent to landfill sites, that this would represent around 0.13 tons, or 0.1% of all U.S. emissions of mercury (around 104 tons) that year.<ref>[http://energystar.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/energystar.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=5411&p_created=1220627774 ''What are the mercury emissions caused by humans? Do CFLS that wind up in a landfill contribute to these emissions?''] retrieved January 5, 2009</ref>
 
Since the end of 2018, the export, import and manufacture of CFLs within the European Union has been prohibited under the EU Mercury Regulation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bmuv.de/en/pressrelease/progressive-ban-on-mercury-containing-products |title= Progressive ban on mercury-containing products |date=January 2018 |access-date=2022-10-08 |publisher= bmuv }}</ref>
====Broken and discarded lamps====
{{main|fluorescent lamp recycling}}
 
=== Recycling ===
Due to health and environmental concerns about mercury, it is unlawful to dispose of fluorescent bulbs as universal waste in the states of [[California]], [[Minnesota]], [[Ohio]], [[Illinois]], [[Indiana]], [[Michigan]], and [[Wisconsin]].<ref>http://www.epa.gov/waste/hazard/wastetypes/universal/lamps/index.htm</ref>
{{See also|Fluorescent lamp recycling}}
Health and environmental concerns about mercury have prompted many jurisdictions to require spent lamps to be properly disposed of or recycled, rather than being included in the general waste stream sent to landfills. Safe disposal requires storing the bulbs unbroken until they can be processed.
 
In the [[United States]], most states have adopted and currently implement the federal [[Hazardous waste in the United States#Universal wastes|Universal Waste Rule]] (UWR).<ref name="epa27" /> Several states, including [[Vermont]], [[New Hampshire]], [[California]], [[Minnesota]], [[New York (state)|New York]], [[Maine]], [[Connecticut]] and [[Rhode Island]], have regulations that are more stringent than the federal UWR.<ref name="epa27">{{cite web |url=http://www.epa.gov/waste/hazard/wastetypes/universal/lamps/faqs.htm#27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090627093842/http://www.epa.gov/waste/hazard/wastetypes/universal/lamps/faqs.htm#27 |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 27, 2009 |title=How are mercury-containing bulbs (called "lamps" in the regulations) regulated? |date=10 May 2013 |publisher=[[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] |access-date=18 June 2013}}</ref> Home-supply [[chain store]]s make free CFL recycling widely available.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/24/business/24recycling.html?em&ex=1214625600&en=8ddbcb7023c75243&ei=5087%0A |access-date=18 June 2013 |title=Home Depot Offers Recycling for Compact Fluorescent Bulbs |date=24 June 2008 |last=Rosenbloom |first=Stephanie |work=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref>
Spent lamps should be properly disposed of, or 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>
 
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.
Special handling instructions for breakage are currently not printed on the packaging of household CFL bulbs in many countries. The amount of mercury released by one bulb can temporarily exceed U.S. federal guidelines for chronic exposure.<ref>
{{cite web
| url=http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/02/26/mercury_leaks_found_as_new_bulbs_break/?page=1
| title=Mercury leaks found as new bulbs break
| work=The Boston Globe
| last=Daley
| first=Beth
| date=February 26, 2008
| accessdate=2009-03-07
| publisher=NY Times Co}}</ref><ref name="maine.gov">
{{cite web
| url=http://maine.gov/dep/rwm/homeowner/cflreport.htm
| title=Maine Compact Fluorescent Lamp Breakage Study Report
| date=February 2008
| accessdate=2009-03-07
| publisher=State of Maine, Dept of Environmental Protection}}</ref> ''Chronic'' however, implies that the exposure continues constantly over a long period of time and the Maine DEP study noted that it remains unclear what the health risks are from short-term exposure to low levels of elemental mercury. The Maine DEP study also confirmed that, despite following EPA best-practice cleanup guidelines on broken CFLs, researchers were unable to remove mercury from carpet, and agitation of the carpet—such as by young children playing—created spikes as high as 25,000&nbsp;ng/m<sup>3</sup> in air close to the carpet, even weeks after the initial breakage. Conventional tubular [[fluorescent lamp]]s have been in commercial and domestic use since the 1930s with little public concern about their handling; these and other domestic products such as thermometers contain far more mercury than modern CFLs.<ref>
{{cite web
| url=http://www.gelighting.com/na/home_lighting/ask_us/faq_compact.htm#mercury
| title=Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb (CFL) FAQs: Is it true that CFLs contain mercury?
| publisher=General Electric Company
| accessdate=2009-03-07}}
</ref>
 
According to the Northwest Compact Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Project, because household users in the U.S. Northwest have the option of disposing of these products in the same way they dispose of other solid waste, in Oregon "a large majority of household CFLs are going to municipal solid waste". They also note the EPA's estimates for the percentage of fluorescent lamps' total mercury released when they are disposed of in the following ways: 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 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927040257/http://www.zerowaste.org/cfl/IMAGES_A/phase_I_rpt.pdf |archive-date=2007-09-27}}</ref>
The [[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) recommends that, in the absence of local guidelines, fluorescent bulbs be double-bagged in plastic before disposal.<ref name=EPA-broken-bulb>
{{cite web
| url=http://www.epa.gov/mercury/spills/index.htm#fluorescent
| 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 Maine DEP study of 2008 compared clean-up methods, and warned that the EPA recommendation of plastic bags was the worst choice, as vapours well above safe levels continued to leach from the bags. The Maine DEP now recommends a sealed glass jar as the best repository for a broken bulb.
 
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.{{Citation needed|date=May 2011}} The crushed glass and metal is stored in drums, ready for shipping to recycling factories.
 
=== Greenhouse gases ===
According to the Northwest Compact Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Project, because household users in the U.S. Northwest have the option of disposing of these products in the same way they dispose of other solid waste, in Oregon "a large majority of household CFLs are going to municipal solid waste". They also note the EPA's estimates for the percentage of fluorescent lamps' total mercury released when they are disposed of in the following ways: municipal waste landfill 3.2%, recycling 3%, municipal waste incineration 17.55% and hazardous waste disposal 0.2%.<ref>
In some places, such as [[Quebec]] and [[British Columbia]] in 2007, [[central heating]] for homes was provided mostly by the burning of [[natural gas]], whereas electricity was primarily provided by [[hydroelectric]] power. An analysis of the impacts of a ban on incandescent light bulbs at that time introduced the notion that in such areas, heat generated by conventional electric light bulbs may have been significantly reducing the release of greenhouse gases from natural gas heating.<ref>{{cite conference |last1=Ivanco |first1=M. |last2=Karney |first2=B.W. |last3=Waher |first3=K.J. |title=To Switch, or Not to Switch: A Critical Analysis of Canada's Ban on Incandescent Light Bulbs |conference=[[IEEE]] Electrical Power Conference |date=25–26 October 2007 |pages=550–555 |doi=10.1109/EPC.2007.4520391}}</ref> Ivanco, Karney, and Waher estimated that "If all homes in Quebec were required to switch from (incandescent) bulbs to CFLs, there would be an increase of almost 220,000 [[tonne]]s in CO<sub>2</sub> emissions in the province, equivalent to the annual emissions from more than 40,000 automobiles."
{{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>
 
== Use and adoption ==
====Mercury poisoning of Chinese factory workers====
{{Main|Phase-out of incandescent light bulbs}}
In the past decade, hundreds of Chinese factory workers who manufacture CFLs for export to first world countries were being poisoned and hospitalized because of mercury exposure. Examples include workers at the Nanhai Feiyang lighting factory in [[Foshan]] city where 68 out of 72 were so badly poisoned that they required hospitalization. At another CFL factory in [[Jinzhou]], 121 out of 123 employees were found to have excessive mercury levels with one employee's mercury level 150 times the accepted standard.<ref>[http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6211261.ece 'Green' lightbulbs poison workers], Times Online, May 3, 2009</ref>
[[File:E27 CFL Philps.jpg|thumb|upright|An E27 Philips 5 watt CFL|220px]]
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. Various [[aid agency]] initiatives exist in [[developing countries]] to replace [[kerosene lamp]]s, which have associated health and safety hazards, with CFLs powered by batteries, [[Photovoltaics|solar panels]] or [[wind power]] generators.<ref name="Kerosene_replacement">200 0000+ solar powered kerosene-lamp replacements assisted by aid agencies: http://www.ashdenawards.org/winners/mpgvm {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110511132800/http://www.ashdenawards.org/winners/mpgvm |date=2011-05-11}}, http://www.ashdenawards.org/winners/Dlight10 {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100708180531/http://www.ashdenawards.org/winners/Dlight10 |date=2010-07-08}}, {{cite web |url=http://www.unescap.org/esd/bazaar/documents/PPT-Sunlabob-LaoPDR.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2010-06-30 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110512172914/http://www.unescap.org/esd/bazaar/documents/PPT-Sunlabob-LaoPDR.pdf |archive-date=2011-05-12}}</ref>
 
Due to the potential to reduce electric consumption and pollution, various organizations have encouraged the adoption of CFLs and other efficient lighting. Efforts range from publicity to encourage awareness, to direct handouts of CFLs to the public. Some electric utilities and local governments have subsidized CFLs or provided them free to customers as a means to reduce electric demand; and so delay further investments in generation.
==Design and application issues==
The primary objectives of CFL design are high [[luminous efficacy|electrical efficiency]] and durability. However, there are some other areas of CFL design and operation that are problematic:<ref>[http://www.leonardo-energy.org/how-efficient-are-compact-fluorescent-lamps Stefan Fassbinder. How efficient are compact fluorescent lamps? Leonardo-Energy.Org]</ref>
 
In the United States, the ''Program for the Evaluation and Analysis of Residential Lighting'' (PEARL) was created to be a watchdog program. PEARL has evaluated the performance and Energy Star compliance of more than 150 models of CFL bulbs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/programs/PEARL/index.asp |title=Program for Evaluation and Analysis of Residential Lighting (PEARL): Programs: LRC |publisher=Lrc.rpi.edu |access-date=2012-07-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120724014244/http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/programs/PEARL/index.asp |archive-date=2012-07-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/resources/newsroom/pdf/2007/PEARL8511.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2010-04-20 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100613111134/http://www.lrc.rpi.edu/resources/newsroom/pdf/2007/PEARL8511.pdf |archive-date=2010-06-13}}</ref>
;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: In addition to the [[Fluorescent lamp#Mechanisms of lamp failure at end of life|wear-out failure modes common to all fluorescent lamps]], the electronic ballast may fail since it has a number of component parts. Ballast 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> New North American technical standards aim to eliminate smoke or excess heat at the end of lamp life.<ref>http://www.csa.ca/cm/ca/en/news/article/new-household-light-standard-addresses-consumer-concerns New household lamp standards, discusses co-ordinated US, Mexico and Canada standard UL 1993, retrieved 2009 Dec 3</ref>
;Incandescent replacement wattage inflation: An August 2009 newspaper report described that some manufacturers claim the CFL replaces a higher wattage incandescent lamp than justified by the light produced by the CFL.<ref>[http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/eu/6110547/Energy-saving-light-bulbs-offer-dim-future.html Energy saving light bulbs offer dim future], The Telegraph, August 29, 2009</ref> Equivalent wattage claims can be replaced by comparison of the lumens produced by the lamp.<ref>http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/09/113 Section III.3</ref> [[File:Dimmable CFL.jpg|right|thumb|upright=0.72|Dimmable integrated spiral CFL that dims 2%-100%, comparable to regular light bulb dimming properties.]]
;Dimming: Only some CF lamps are labeled for [[Dimmer|dimming]] control. Using regular CFLs with a dimmer is ineffective at dimming, 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> Dimmable CFLs are available.<ref>[http://www.bchydro.com/business/investigate/investigate3676.html BC Hydro - Power Smart for Business - Lighting Controls]</ref> The dimming range of CFLs is usually between 20% and 90%.<ref>[http://www.dimmablecfls.com/ Dimmable CFL's ]</ref> However, in many modern CFLs the dimmable range has been improved to be from 2% to 100%, more akin to regular lights. There are two types of dimmable CFL marketed: Regular dimmable CFLs, and "Switch Dimmable" CFLs. The later use a regular light switch, while the on-board electronics has a setting where the number of times the switch is turned on & off in quick succession sets a reduced light output mode. 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. However, these issues have been addressed with the latest units and some CFLs may perform more like regular lamps. 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. Cold Cathode CFLs can be dimmed to low levels, making them popular replacements for incandescent bulbs on dimmer circuits.
 
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP)/Global Environment Facility (GEF) initiative has developed "The Global Efficient Partnership Program", which focuses on country-led policies and approaches to enable the implementation of energy-efficient lighting, including CFLs, quickly and cost-effectively in developing and emerging countries.
;Perceived Coldness of Low Intensity CFL: When a CFL is dimmed the colour temperature (warmth) stays the same. This is counter to most other light sources (such as the sun or incandescents) where colour gets warmer as the light source gets dimmer. Emotional Response Testing suggests that people find dim, bluish light sources to be cold or even sinister. This may explain the persistent lack of popularity for CFL's in bedrooms and other settings where a subdued light source is preferred.
;Heat: Some CFLs are labeled not to be run base up, since heat will shorten the ballast's life. Such CFLs are unsuitable for use in [[pendant]] lamps and especially unsuitable for [[recessed light]] fixtures. CFLs 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> cold cathode CFLs or to replace such fixtures with those designed for CFLs.<ref name="DealerGuide"/>
;Power quality: The introduction of CFLs may affect [[power quality]] appreciably, particularly in large-scale installations.<ref>Ph. N. Korovesis e.a., Influence of Large-Scale Installation of Energy Saving Lamps on the Line Voltage Distortion of a Weak Network Supplied by Photovoltaic Station, IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON POWER DELIVERY, Vol. 19, NO. 4, Oktober 2004</ref><ref>J. Cunill-Solà and M. Salichs, Study and Characterization of Waveforms From Low-Watt (<25 W) Compact Fluorescent Lamps With Electronic Ballasts, IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON POWER DELIVERY, Vol. 22, NO. 4, Oktober 2007</ref> In such cases, CFLs with low (below 30 percent) [[Harmonics (electrical power)|total harmonic distortion]] (THD) and [[power factor]]s greater than 0.9 should be used.<ref>[http://www.mge.com/business/saving/madison/pa_2.html Compact Fluorescent Lamps]</ref><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>
;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|format=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. Cold cathode CFLs reach their rated light output far more quickly.
;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 name=autogenerated1>[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 normally do not. Such sounds are particularly noticeable in quiet rooms, and can be annoying under these circumstances. Newer compact fluorescent light bulbs are nearly noiseless, but some poorly made CFLs may still emit a buzzing sound.
;Iridescence: Fluorescent lamps can cause [[window film]] to exhibit [[iridescence]]. This phenomenon usually occurs at night. The amount of iridescence may vary from almost imperceptible, to very visible and most frequently occurs when the film is constructed using one or more layers of sputtered metal. It can however occur in non-reflective films as well. When iridescence does occur in window film, the only way to stop it is to prevent the fluorescent light from illuminating the film.
;Use with timers, motion sensors, and other electronic controls: Electronic (but not mechanical) timers can interfere with the electronic ballast in CFLs and can shorten their lifespan.<ref name=autogenerated1 /> Some timers rely on a connection to neutral through the bulb and so pass a tiny current through the bulb, charging the capacitors in the electronic ballast. They may not work with a CFL connected, unless an incandescent bulb is also connected. They may also cause the CFL to flash when off. This can also be true for illuminated wall switches and motion sensors. Cold cathode CFLs avoid many of these problems.
;Fire hazard: When the base of the bulb is not made to be flame-retardant, as required in the voluntary standard for CFLs, then the electrical components in the bulb can overheat which poses a fire hazard.<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> The Electrical Safety Authority of Canada has stated that certified bulbs do not pose a fire hazard as they use anti-fire plastics.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.esasafe.com/pdf/Safety_Alerts/07-03-AL.pdf|format=PDF|title=THE ELECTRICAL SAFETY AUTHORITY RESPONDS TO CONSUMER CONCERNS ABOUT CFLs|date=22 March 2007|publisher=Electrical Safety Authority|accessdate=2009-01-21}}</ref>
;Outdoor use: CFLs not designed for outdoor use will not start 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}} 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> Cold cathode CFLs will start and perform in a wide range of temperatures due to their different design.
;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]].
;Lifetime brightness: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|format=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|format=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|format=PDF|title=Quality Assurance in Energy Star Residential Lighting Programmes|accessdate=2007-04-13}}</ref>
;[[UV]] emissions: Fluorescent bulbs can damage [[paintings]] and [[textile preservation|textile]]s which have light-sensitive [[dyes]] and [[pigments]]. Strong colours will tend to fade on exposure to UV light. Ultraviolet light can also cause [[polymer degradation]] with a loss in [[mechanical strength]] and yellowing of colourless products.<ref>http://www.gcrio.org/UNEP1998/UNEP98p62.html</ref>
;incompatibility with DC fixtures: a 120V incandescent bulb can run on either 120VAC or 120VDC, while a 120V CFL may require 170VDC or it may explode when connected to DC (because of DC short paths). This poses a problem when DC is needed in order to achieve absolute silence, e.g., in recording studios.
;Large inrush currents: A 100W, 120V incandescent bulb requires a 10A current when cold, and 830mA thereafter. By contrast, a 25W CFL replacement can require a 20A inrush current to charge a large capacitor in bad CFL designs. For example, look at the circuit board shown above. Clearly you can see a 10uF capacitor on the input side. Now imagine connecting 2 or 3 of these bulbs to your mains via a little 2A relay -- something you could easily do with three 100W bulbs. The relay will weld closed after about 5 uses. Then you won't be able to turn the light off! The worst inrush is when the lamp is switched on at the peak of the cycle. Even though the continous RMS current is around 500mA (because of bad power factor, which is another story) you would need at least a 10A relay to switch a mere 25W CFL. SCRs that switch at zero-crossings are not an option in high-efficiency systems because of the 1.5V drop. MOSFETs are OK but very expensive. Therefore conventional fluorescent fixtures (or very, very expensive CFLs with good inrush limiter circuits) need to be used wherever efficiency and automatic switching are required.
 
In the United States and Canada, the [[Energy Star]] program labels lamps that meet a set of standards for efficiency, 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 3 July 2008, retrieved 2008-06-25.</ref> Those CFLs with a recent Energy Star certification start in less than one second and do not flicker. ''Energy Star Light Bulbs for Consumers'' is a resource for finding and comparing Energy Star qualified lamps. There is ongoing work in improving the "quality" ([[color rendering index]]) of the light.{{citation needed|date=March 2016}}
==Efforts to encourage adoption==
{{Main|Phase out of incandescent light bulbs}}
 
In the United States, new standards proposed by the [[United States Department of Energy]] could result in [[LED lamp]]s replacing CFLs. In the opinion of Noah Horowitz of the [[Natural Resources Defense Council]], most CFL bulbs would not meet the standards.<ref>{{cite news |last=Wolverton |first=Troy |date=2016-03-12 |title=Be prepared to say goodbye to the lightbulbs you've loved |work=[[The Charlotte Observer]] |agency=[[San Jose Mercury News]] |page=1C}}</ref>
Due to the potential to reduce electric consumption and pollution, various organizations have encouraged the adoption of CFLs and other efficient lighting. Efforts range from publicity to encourage awareness, to direct handouts of 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 so delaying additional investments in generation).
 
In the [[United Kingdom]], a similar program is run by the [[Energy Saving Trust]] to identify lighting products that meet energy conservation and performance guidelines.<ref name=est>{{cite web|url=http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Energy-saving-products/Energy-saving-lightbulbs-and-fittings |title=Energy saving lightbulbs |publisher=Energysavingtrust.org.uk |access-date=2012-07-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726071543/http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Energy-saving-products/Energy-saving-lightbulbs-and-fittings |archive-date=2011-07-26}}</ref>
More controversially, some governments are considering stronger measures to entirely displace incandescents. These measures include taxation, or bans on production of incandescent light bulbs that do not meet energy efficiency requirements. [[Australia]], [[Canada]], and the [[US]] have already announced plans for nationwide efficiency standards that would constitute an effective ban on most current incandescent bulbs.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/scienceNews/idUSN2529253520070425 Canada to ban incandescent light bulbs by 2012] – Reuters Wed Apr 25, 2007 Retrieved Tue September 16, 2008</ref><ref>[http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:h.r.00006: THOMAS Record of Clean Energy Act]</ref><ref>[http://www.environment.gov.au/settlements/energyefficiency/lighting/faq-phaseout.html Phaseout of Inefficient Light Bulbs - Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) FAQs] ''Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage, and the Arts''</ref>
 
The G24 (624Q2) and [[GU24 lamp fitting]] socket systems were designed to replace the traditional lamp sockets, so that incandescent bulbs are not installed in fixtures intended for energy efficient lamps only.
At the meeting of the Ecodesign Regulatory Committee in Brussels on December 8, 2008, the [[European Union]] Member States experts approved the European Commission's proposals for a regulation progressively phasing out incandescent bulbs starting in 2009 and finishing at the end of 2012. By switching to energy saving bulbs, EU citizens will apparently save almost 40&nbsp;TWh (almost the electricity consumption of 11&nbsp;million European households), which may lead to a reduction of about 15&nbsp;million tons of CO<sub>2</sub> emission per year.<ref>[http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/08/1909&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en Member States approve the phasing-out of incandescent bulbs by 2012] – Press releases RAPID Mon Dec 8, 2008 Retrieved Wed December 9, 2008</ref>
 
==Efficiency comparison ==
===Labeling programs===
{{More citations needed|section|date=November 2015}}
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>
 
{|class=wikitable
In the [[United Kingdom]] a similar program is run by the [[Energy Saving Trust]] to identify lighting products that meet energy conservation and performance guidelines.<ref>[http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Energy-saving-products/Energy-saving-lightbulbs-and-fittings Energy saving lightbulbs]</ref>
|-
! rowspan=2 |
| rowspan=2 | Incandescent
| rowspan=2 | Halogen
| rowspan=2 | Fluorescent
| colspan=4 | LED
|-
| Generic
| Philips
| Philips [[L Prize]]<ref name="philwinPDF">{{cite web |url=http://www.lightingprize.org/pdfs/LPrize-winner_media-kit.pdf |title=LPrize-winner_media-kit.pdf |publisher=U.S. Department of Energy |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006145418/http://www.lightingprize.org/pdfs/LPrize-winner_media-kit.pdf |archive-date=6 October 2011 |access-date=11 March 2013}}</ref>
| Daylight (TCP)
|-
! Electric power ([[Watt|W]])
| 60
| 42
| 14
| 10
| 12.5
| 9.7
| 9.8
|-
! Light output ([[Lumen (unit)|lm]])
| 860
| 650
| 800
| 800
| 800
| 910
| 950
|-
! [[Luminous efficacy]] (lm/W)
| {{Formatnum:{{#expr: 860/60 round 1}}}}
| 14.42
| 57.14
| 80
| {{Formatnum:{{#expr: 800/12.5 round 1}}}}
| 93.4
| 96.94
|-
! [[Color temperature]] ([[Kelvin|K]])
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|2700|hexval}}"| 2700
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|3100|hexval}}"| 3100<ref>3100K is typical; individual bulbs vary. See [http://hypertextbook.com/facts/2003/ElaineDevora.shtml Temperature of a Halogen Light Bulb], The Physics Factbook, Glenn Elert, ed., (Retrieved 2012-05-12)</ref>
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|2700|hexval}}"| 2700
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|3000|hexval}}"| 3000
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|2700|hexval}}"| 2700
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|2727|hexval}}"| 2727
| style="background-color:#{{Color temperature|5000|hexval}}"| 5000
|-
! [[Color rendering index|CRI]]
| 100
| 100
| >75
| >85
| 85
| 93
| Not listed
|-
! Lifespan ([[hour|h]])
| 1000
| 2500
| 8000
| 25,000
| 25,000
| 30,000
| 25,000
|}
 
==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}}
 
==ExternalSee linksalso==
*[[Fluorescent lamp]]
 
== References ==
{{Reflist|30em}}
 
== External links ==
{{Commons category|Compact fluorescent light bulbs}}
* [http://www.superiorlighting.com/BULB_REFERENCE_GUIDE_s/218.htm#cfl CFL Bulb and Base Reference Guide]
*[http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=cfls.pr_cfls US government Energy Star's page on fluorescent bulbs]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160305111728/http://www.elightful.ca/pages/cfl-plug-ins Plug-In Plug-in CFL (PL Type) Lamps: Non-integrated Bulbs] – cross reference listing of non-integrated CFL bulbs
*[http://www.lamprecycle.org/ LampRecycle.org] – for information on recycling spent mercury-containing lamps
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070315115858/http://www.nxp.com/acrobat_download/applicationnotes/AN00048_1.pdf A technical description of a typical CFL circuit]
*[http://www.lamptech.co.uk/Compact%20Fluorescent.htm Evolution of Compact Fluorescent Lamps]
*[http://ledmuseum.home.att.net/spectra7.htm Spectra of Fluorescent Light Bulbs]
*[http://www.snopes.com/medical/toxins/cfl.asp Snopes Urban Legends Archive, regarding mercury exposure from a broken CFL]
*[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.elcfed.org/documents/070702_ELC%20domestic%20lighting%20strategy%20FAQ.pdf The European lamp industry’s strategy for domestic lighting: Frequently Asked Questions & Answers on energy efficient lamps]
*[http://www.nxp.com/acrobat_download/applicationnotes/AN00048_1.pdf A technical description of a typical CFL circuit]
*[http://www.elightbulbs.com/customer_service_energy_savings_calculator.cfm Determine the benefits of Compact Fluorescents with an Energy Saving Calculator]
*[http://www.banthebulb.org BanTheBulb.Org] energy efficiency campaign
{{ArtificialLightSources}}
 
{{Artificial light sources|state=collapsed}}
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[[Category:Gas discharge lamps]]
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