Ready for a change? Environmental light bulbs

If you ask for explanations for starting to use the environmental light bulbs instead of the traditional ones, you usually get two answers: the new type of light bulbs is 1) Earth-friendly and 2) wallet-friendly at the same time. The environmental bulbs are economical in several ways: they can be used up to ten times a longer time than the “normal” bulbs, and the amount of emanated warmth is smaller, therefore there is less air conditioning necessary, which is significant mostly for large offices. Another fact is that the environmental bulbs use only one-third of the energy usage of the traditional bulbs, which is good both for the environment and also your pocket.

Except for running a Toronto real estate agency, I’m always looking for quick and easy tips to make my lifestyle a bit more Earth-friendly. The range of environmental light bulbs in the stores is very rich, and if you are not an experienced buyer, you might get a little decide while shopping for light bulbs, we have summed up some easy tips for you.

Mr. Bulb Right

If you are not sure about the right type of bulb you need, the best idea would be to bring your old light bulb with you so that you can make sure the shape and size matches. When using the environmental bulbs, check the wattage – the new bulbs use up only one quarter of the energy needed by the traditional ones (60 watt traditional bulb = 15 watt environmental bulb). It is important to read the label carefully, especially if you want to put your new bulb in a dimmer light – not all kinds of light bulbs are suitable for dimmers.

The perfect spot for your new bulb

These environmental bulbs are not suitable for use in hot places with little air flow (recessed ceiling fixture). The environmental bulb is not lit up immediately as the traditional one. It usually takes something between one and three minutes for it to give proper light, so it may be damaged if it is lit up and then switched off again in a short time. Therefore use in places where the bulb can stay lit for at least 15 minutes at a time to prevent early damage.

How to dispose of environmental bulbs

Environmental light bulbs should be recycled at all times. The environmental bulbs contain mercury, a dangerous heavy-metal. If broken, do not vacuum. You also shouldn’t touch it with bare hands. Instead, try to sweep the mercury bits with a piece of cardboard. Pick up smaller bits with sticky tape and wipe the affected area with a damp cloth. Open the window for at least 15 minutes to avoid mercury exposure.