Pros and Cons of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

If you've ventured into the world of eco-friendly living, you've no doubt heard of the compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL). According to ENERGY STAR, compared to standard incandescent bulbs, CFLs can last up to 10 times longer and use about 75% less energy. CFLs can also save you an estimated $30 in energy costs over the bulb's lifetime. All of this sounds great, but before you run out and equip your home with these eco-friendly bulbs, there are some not-so-friendly facts you should know about CFLs.

CFLs contain mercury, which apparently is what allows it to be an efficient light source. Because of the mercury contained within the bulbs, they must be disposed of properly. Until now, homeowners' primary option for disposal was local hazardous waste companies. Home Depot recently announced that it will offer recycling for CFLs. And since 75% of the nation's homes are within 10 miles of a Home Depot, this should make recycling CFLs much more convenient.

So what happens if these bulbs break?

Mercury is a toxic pollutant, so you should naturally be concerned about breaking a compact fluorescent light bulb. The Environmental Protection Agency outlines steps for the safe cleanup of broken CFLs, which include leaving the room that contains the broken bulb and refraining from vacuuming or sweeping spilled mercury.

Doing what I can to make certain you're an informed consumer,