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CFL Guidelines

While some CFLs can be used on dimming circuits, others should only be used with basic on/off switches. If you attempt to use a standard CFL bulb with a dimming control, you will shorten the product life and create a potential fire hazard.

I am interested in CFL: Usage | Installation | Disposal | Frequently Asked Questions

Usage

How Much Light Do I Need?
Lumens are the measurement of the amount of light produced by the lamp. Use the table below to become familiar with the lumen or light output range for the most popular residential incandescent bulbs.

Incandescent Bulbs (watts)	Minimum Light Output (lumens)	Common ENERGY STAR Qualified Light Bulbs (watts)
40	450	9 to 13
60	800	13 to 15
75	1,100	18 to 25
100	1,600	23 to 30
150	2,600	30 to 52

A regular CFL bulb can be used in a fixture with a 3-way switch; however, it will only provide one level of brightness and will only illuminate in the second or third position. For best results in a 3-way or dimmable fixture, look for a CFL bulb specifically designed for its use.

ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs are manufactured to last a minimum of 6,000 hours under normal operating conditions. However, using them in temperatures hotter or colder than room temperature could affect their rated life.

Outdoor bulbs should be protected within a fixture rather than exposed directly to the elements. In addition, using CFLs in poorly ventilated fixtures or recessed lights could result in heat buildup. For best results in recessed cans, use CFL reflector bulbs specially designated for this type of fixture.

• Color and Bulb Choices
• Download the Brochure
• Additional Lighting Information

Installation

Installing a CFL isn’t much different than installing an incandescent bulb; however, please keep these safety tips in mind.

• Hold the CFL by its base, rather than by the glass tube, to prevent cracking (Cracked tubes shorten the bulb’s life).
• Make sure the new bulb fits easily. Do not allow the lamp shade or harp to press against the glass.

Disposal - What should I do if a CFL breaks?

Before Clean-up: Air Out the Room

• Have people and pets leave the room, and don't let anyone walk through the breakage area on their way out.
• Open a window and leave the room for 15 minutes or more.
• Shut off the central forced-air heating/air conditioning system, if you have one.

Clean-Up Steps for Hard Surfaces

• Do not use a vacuum or broom to clean up the broken bulb on hard surfaces. Carefully scoop up glass fragments and powder using stiff paper or cardboard and place them in a glass jar with metal lid (such as a canning jar) or in a sealed plastic bag.
• Use sticky tape, such as duct tape, to pick up any remaining small glass pieces and powder.
• Wipe the area clean with damp paper towels or disposable wet wipes. Place towels in the glass jar or plastic bag.3. Clean-up Steps for Carpeting or Rug:
• Carefully pick up glass fragments and place them in a glass jar with metal lid (such as a canning jar) or in a sealed plastic bag.
• Use sticky tape, such as duct tape, to pick up any remaining small glass fragments and powder.
• If vacuuming is needed after all visible materials are removed, vacuum the area where the bulb was broken.
• Remove the vacuum bag (or empty and wipe the canister), and put the bag or vacuum debris in a sealed plastic bag.

Future Cleaning of Carpeting or Rug: Air Out the Room During and After Vacuuming

• The next several times you vacuum, shut off the central forced-air heating/air conditioning system and open a window before vacuuming.
• Keep the central heating/air conditioning system shut off and the window open for at least 15 minutes after vacuuming is completed.5. Disposal of Clean-up Materials
• Immediately place all clean-up materials outdoors in a trash container or protected area for the next normal trash pickup.
• Wash your hands after disposing of the jars or plastic bags containing clean-up materials.

Disposal - Recycling

Just like batteries, telephones, TVs, computers and cell phones, CFLs should be recycled. LIPA asks that you dispose of CFLs properly. Visit www.recycleabulb.com or www.earth911.com for more information on CFL recycling.

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