CFL bulbs are an energy efficient type of bulb amongst the most environmentally friendly options available.

By switching to CFL bulbs – or alternative energy efficient light bulbs – you will do more good for the environment than if you use standard incandescent bulbs. Why? Because standard incandescent light bulbs burn far more energy, and whether this is produced by coal-fired or geothermal power plants, mercury is emitted into the environment. CFL bulbs are good for the environment because as they reduce our energy consumption, they are delaying the necessity for new power plants, and thereby reduce the amount of mercury released from the production of energy.

CFL bulbs and mercury
One CFL bulb contains less than 1% of the mercury in an old thermometer. Compact fluorescent lamps (as well as linear fluorescent tubes) contain very small traces of mercury, a toxic element found in nature that we are all exposed to in some way. The amount of mercury contained in a typical CFL bulb - typically less than 5mg - is significantly less than that found in your watch battery (25mg), your amalgam fillings (500mg) or an old thermometer (1000-2000mg).

A study commissioned by the Ministry of Health assessed the risk from mercury exposure following breakage of CFL bulbs. The study found that because of the very small amount of mercury contained in a CFL, adverse health effects were considered unlikely even in the first scenario where ventilation was inadequate and the broken bulb was not cleaned up immediately. In the second scenario, adequate ventilation and clean-up resulted in lower mercury concentrations and adverse health effects were considered even less likely.

CFL Bulbs
Today's efficient bulb technology is far advanced from that you may have trialed 10 or even 5 years ago. So much so that past concerns surrounding performance, aesthetics, price and safety are no longer valid......

Energy Savings Calculator
Use our energy savings calculator to calculate the total cost savings you would benefit from by using efficient bulbs instead of ......

Light Bulbs
Different types of light bulbs......