Lightbulb boondogle

The actual danger of the mercury isn't the point; if you read the package labels of the CFLs, you'll find these instructions that you're supposed to follow if the CFL breaks. As someone else stated, additional burden on the community for HAZMAT. Not to mention, you're supposed to evacuate your family for a couple of hours.

Somebody explain how CFLs are better?

 

That was, in large part, because DuPont's patent was due to expire. The slight difference in formula between Freon R12 and Freon R134a is miniscule as far as the environment is concerned, and in fact. R134a is a smaller molecuel so it escapes the system much easier than R12. That's why we all have to have our cars re-charched every few years after they get a few miles on them and the seals get a tad worn.

As far as lighting is concerned, LEDs are the way to go. You get light output equivalent to many watts of power with very low power usqage. As close to free lighting as there is in this universe (apart from natural, that is). Technology will catch up (or China will begin importing) and cost will drop dramatically.

Remember when the ice-cream bulbs (CFL) were $20 and we still bought them because they would last 10 years?

 

There is not much mercury in an indivudal bulb -- not enough to harm anyone -- but with the absolute ban on mercury in general, there is a zero tolerance factor that is in place.

Oh, and I bet that both of us can recall playing with a puddle of mercury in science class in junior high... :laugh: