Environment-friendliness and economy are the two main arguments in favor of fluorescent light bulbs as opposed to the "old" bulbs. The fluorescent bulbs are friendly to your pocket in several ways: they can be used up to ten times a longer time than the "normal" bulbs, and the amount of emanated warmth is smaller, therefore there is less air conditioning necessary, which is significant mostly for large offices. Besides, one traditional light bulb needs as much energy as three fluorescent ones. This is both environment and pocket friendly as well.

Except for running a Toronto real estate agency, I'm always looking for quick and easy tips to make my lifestyle a bit more Earth-friendly. The variety of fluorescent light bulbs in the stores is very rich, and if you are not an experienced buyer, you might get a little puzzled to help you choose the right bulb for you.

The right bulb

If you are not certain about the right type of bulb you need, the best idea would be to bring your old light bulb with you so that you can make sure the shape and size matches. When using the fluorescent bulbs, check the wattage - the new bulbs use up only one quarter of the energy needed by the traditional ones (60 watt traditional bulb = 15 watt fluorescent bulb). If you need a bulb for a dimmer light, make sure your new bulb works in these - it should be mentioned on the label.

The right place

For rooms with high temperature and insufficient ventilation, such as recessed ceiling fixtures, it would be a bad idea to use a fluorescent light bulb. The bulb takes anything between one and three minutes to light up and doesn’t like to be switched on and off frequently. Therefore use in rooms where the bulb can stay lit for at least 15 minutes at a time to prevent early damage.

The right light

After your light bulb has served you its time, you should always recycle it at your local recycling spot. Be very careful if you smash an environmental bulb. There is some mercury in it, which is a poisonous heavy-metal. Do not try to clean it with a vacuum cleaner. Do not touch with bare skin and first remove bigger pieces with a cardboard. Then apply some sticky tape to remove the remaining tiny bits and wipe the area with a wet cloth. It is also a good idea to open the window in the room for at least 15 minutes so that you prevent mercury poisoning.

Tagged with: •