New CFLs With Cool Designs
Do you want to save money and energy by switching to CFL lights in your home, but the spiral design doesn't work everywhere? Hold on—CFLs now come in different designs and can even work in chandeliers and candelabras. Consumer Reports tested 43 CFLs and says most important is to look for Energy-Star-qualified CFLs. Those that weren't didn't do as well in the tests. Take an Ikea porch bulb that does not carry the Energy Star. Five of the 10 bulbs Consumer Reports tested burned out before 3,000 hours, far sooner than most other CFLs. CFLs are great for hard-to-reach spots and fixtures that you leave on for long periods of time. But Consumer Reports says they're not good for staircases or other locations where you need instant light, because they don't reach full brightness right away. There are now dimmable CFLs, but Consumer Reports found that the dimmable CFLs tested just go out, instead of dimming like a regular bulb. For table and floor lamps as well as sconces, Consumer Reports recommends the EcoSmart spiral CFLs from Home Depot. A pack of 4 costs $6. For track lights as well as recessed ceiling lights, testers recommend Home Depot's EcoSmart indoor reflectors. They cost $13 dollars for a 2-pack. Consumer Reports says be aware that CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, so they need to be recycled—not thrown in the trash. Some stores, such as Home Depot and Ikea, have a recycling program. Also check www.epa.gov/bulbrecycling and your sanitation department to find other recycling options. Consumer Reports has no commercial relationship with any advertiser or sponsor appearing on this Web site. Copyright © 2005-2009 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.
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