CFLs

Compact Florescent Lights


We challenge you to replace your 5 most frequently-used lights with Compact Florescent Lights (CFLs). The energy-saving technology has been upgraded, now available in a variety of styles and wattage. When the CFL burns out, please recycle it properly. 

 

Energy Star has published useful information regarding mercury content, disposal, and technology innovations of CFLs. For more information, check out the PDFs below.


CFL recycling locations in Aspen:

  1. Ace Hardware: 300 Puppy Smith Road
  2. Saturday Farmer's Market booth: next to Ute City Building


LEDs

 

LED stands for “light-emitting diode.” This is an increasingly popular lighting technology with one of the best balances between brightness, affordability, and energy and environmental conservation. The technology for LEDs is still improving; however, manufacturers claim that LEDs have the lowest energy consumption of any lighting product, a lifespan that is 20 times more than traditional lighting products, do not have mercury, and have a light quality that is equal to superior to traditional lighting products.

 

As mentioned above, the technology for LEDs is still improving and not all LED bulbs live up to their manufacturer’s claims. For more information on LEDs and suggested consumer questions, click here.



 How do I get the most out of my CFL?


  1. Screw in the CFL by holding the ballast, NOT the glass tubing.
  2. CFLs require a break-in period ranging from 1-2 hours. This will allow the mercury to fully activate and enhances the color of the emitted light.  
  3. You will maximize the lifetime savings and effectiveness of your CFL by keeping it turned on continuously for 15 minutes or more.
  4. Use only 3-way bulbs in 3-way sockets.
  5. Only use bulbs labeled as dimmable on dimmer switches.
  6. Place your CFLs in open fixtures indoors. Placing a CFL in an enclosed fixture creates a hot environment and reduces the lifetime of your bulb.
  7. CFLs can be used outside, but they need to be in an enclosed fixture. Check the packaging for optimal operating temperatures.

 

Energy Star provides more useful information about CFLs and it can be found by clicking here.