FAQ

CFLs and Global Warming
Q: How does the use of light bulbs affect Global Warming?
A: Light bulbs use electricity. Electricity comes from power plants. Electric power plants burn coal, petroleum, and natural gas, all of which result in CO2 emissions. CO2 accounts for 72% of the total man-made Greenhouse gas emissions.

Q: What impact does using CFLs have on Global Warming?
A: CFLs use over 75% less electricity than their incandescent counterparts, which results in 75% less CO2 emissions.

Using CFLs
Q: Can any of the The Bulb CFLs be used in dimmers?
A: Unfortunately, we do not currently sell any dimmable CFLs at this time. We have found that the technology used for dimmable CFLs is somewhat unreliable. As soon as we feel we can provide a quality dimmable product, we will start to carry them.

Q: Can any of the The Bulb CFLs be used outdoors?
A: Yes, as long as they are not directly exposed to the elements or exposed to extreme temperatures. The optimum operating temperatures for our products are between -4 degrees F and 122 degrees F. Any use outside of this range may result in a decrease in the life of the bulb

Q: Can the The Bulb CFLs be used with timers or photocells?
A: Some timers and photocells are not incompatible with compact fluorescent light bulbs. Using CFLs with an incompatible device may result in a shorter life of the light bulb. To find out if a timer or photocell is compatible with compact fluorescent bulbs, check with the manufacturer of the timer or photocell.

Q: Can the The Bulb CFLs be used with 3-way lamps?
A: Ecofuture does not currently make a 3-way CFL. However, regular CFLs can be used in a lamp with a 3-way switch and should not damage the bulb.

Q: Why does my compact fluorescent light bulb appear dim when I first turn it on?
A: Compact fluorescent light bulbs require a short warm-up period to completely excite the gas contained inside the bulb. Once the gas is fully excited, the CFL will reach full brightness.

Q: Can I use a compact fluorescent light bulb in an enclosed light fixture?
A: Yes, compact fluorescent light bulbs can be used in enclosed fixtures as long as the enclosed fixture is not recessed. Totally enclosed recessed fixtures (for example, a ceiling can light with a cover over the bulb) create temperatures that are too high to allow the use of a compact fluorescent bulb.

Mercury Content and Recycling
Q: Is it true there is Mercury in CFLs?
A: Yes, all compact fluorescent light bulbs contain a tiny amount of mercury. According to the EPA, the average CFL contains 5mg (1/1000th of an ounce) of Mercury (Energy Star).

Q: How much mercury is in THE Bulb CFLs?
A: The bulb CFLs contain up to 50% less Mercury than the average CFL. Here is a summary of the amount of mercury contained in each of our light bulbs:

Q: Should I recycle my spent CFLs?
A: Yes, If thrown away, the bulbs will most likely become broken, and the Mercury will escape and contribute to water and air pollution. Recycling is the best option, and is what ECOfuture strongly recommends.

Q: Where can I recycle my CFLs?
A: For more information on recycling CFLs, please go to www.earth911.org or www.lamprecycle.org. Each of these sites contain resources for finding recycling facilities in each state. If a recycler is not available in your area, services the spent CFLs can be sent to ECOfuture, and we will be happy to recycle them for you. Our corporate policy is to properly recycle ALL spent and non-functioning CFLs returned to us. Please contact us for more information.

Q: Can I recycle THE Bulb packaging?
A: Yes, our packaging is recyclable and is made from 100% recycled materials, not the petroleum-based plastic clamshells used by most other CFL manufacturers.