Mar 14 2007
Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
Whilst we are very keen to do our bit for the environment the current furore over energy efficient light bulbs is enough to put anyone off especially as there are some major myths around these devices. Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFL) are available in a number of forms and some are more efficient than others. All of them are more expensive so you need to ensure you get the type (or types) most suitable for your application. One of the issues is that CFLs last longer than normal light bulbs provided they are left on for longer periods i.e. switching on and off reduces their life. However, this consumes more electricity thus defeating at least part of the objective. In addition, CFLs contain mercury and are more expensive to recycle than conventional light bulbs.
The good news is that better designs are on the way which last longer and cost less so don’t rush out and buy yet - just watch this space 
Just a quick update. I’ve been checking in my local City Electrical Factors and there’s a huge range of lamps available now for all sorts of fittings including miniature spots, edison screw etc. The cost around £6 each so they’re not cheap but you should recoup the cost within a year then it’s lower electricity bills forever
You should also check out the LED range for downlights as they use considerably less power and generate a lot less heat. The heat from standard halogen lamps leads to premature failure giving them a hidden cost which makes energy efficient lamps much more attractive.
[...] A recent news item on BBC Breakfast revealed that there is a higher recycling cost for Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL) due to the mercury content. But you knew that as we revealed it in March 2007! [...]