Re: Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs – A Tale From Dust to Dust

Thanks for the contribution to an evolving debate of CFL and incandescent light “bulbs”.

In this analysis of "energy input required during production", the components listed are: glass, plastic, electronics, brass, operation, and recycle; not mentioned is the cost of mining of rare earth phosphors; these phosphors are an essential component of all fluorescent lamps and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL). It is the mixing of the phosphors which coat the inside surface of the bulb that provides the color and quality of light that is acceptable for use. The mining of these materials surely has significant impact on the environment and should be considered into the energy input equation.

Also not included in the analysis is the production and shipping of CFLs versus incandescent lamps.

On a subjective level, sometimes compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) are too bright, especially in the later evening hours when lower light levels are more conducive to relaxing. Dimming ballasts are available for CFL pin-base configurations, and they are expensive for the user. (I’m not aware of screw-base dimming ballasts –but they could be out there).

Lamp life seems to be the deal breaker in this analysis. However, the life of incandescent lamps are increased significantly with the use of “dimmer” switches; also available are desk/credenza dimmers which can be used with any incandescent table or floor lamp. I have lived in my condo for six years and last week I replaced my first light bulb – all my light fixtures are on dimmer switches.

Since the writer didn’t include the mining of rare earth phosphors, the production and shipping of CFLs versus incandescent lamps, and the use of dimmer on incandescent lamps in the analysis, I disagree with the boxed note at head of this page: “Note: If you don’t want to read all of this, here is the key point. If a CFL bulb lasts longer that 50hrs, then the total life cycle energy consumption of the CFL will be lower than that of an incandescent bulb even though they are more complicated to make.”