Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Best Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

The folks over at the Environmental Working Group are hopping mad over the way the Energy Star label has been turned into something less than perceived by the public.

Seems like the label is on a lot of products that aren't as efficient or environmentally friendly as they should be when compared to the best in their class.

They are asking us to join in sending a message to Energy Star asking them to lower the amount of mercury permitted in Energy Star rated compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).

They have done their own research and named the best CFL manufacturers, sizes available, mercury included, and estimated life:


Earthmate Mini-Size Bulbs (13, 15, 20, & 23 Watt) about 1 mg 10,000 hours
Litetronics Neolite (10, 13, 15, 20, & 23 Watt) about 1 mg 10,000 hours
Sylvania Micro-Mini (13, 20, & 23 Watts) less than 1.5 mg 12,000 hours
Sylvania DURA-ONE (reflector bulbs) less than 1.8 mg 15,000 hours
Feit Ecobulb less than 2.5 mg 8-10,000 hours
MaxLite 1.2-2.5 mg 10,000 hours
Philips with Alto 1.23-2.7 mg 8-10,000 hours


You can print out a handy shopping cheat-sheet at:

EWG’s Guide to Light Bulbs

Thanks EWG!

Peggy