District of Columbia CFL Campaign
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CFL?
A CFL -- or compact fluorescent light bulb -- is an energy-efficient light bulb. These light bulbs last about 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs, and use about 75 percent less energy. A 15-watt CFL provides the same amount of light as a 60-watt incandescent. They are available at home improvement, hardware and other retailers.
What is Pepco’s CFL program?
Pepco CFL program offers ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs to District of Columbia and Maryland residential customers at a discount purchase price. The price of a single CFL will be discounted $1.50 and the price of a multi-pack of bulbs will be discounted $3.
What is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR helps us all save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. ENERGY STAR sponsors the “Change a Light, Change the World” campaign - a national call to action encouraging all Americans to help change the world one light at a time.
Why does changing light bulbs make such a big difference?
Lighting can account for up to 20 percent of the average home’s electric bill. That can amount to a huge chunk of change.
Why should I replace my incandescent light bulbs with ENERGY STAR CFLs?
ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs provide a quick and easy solution to help you save energy, especially in high-use light fixtures. CFLs are a great alternative to standard incandescent light bulbs because they use 75% less energy while providing the same amount of light. When you use less energy, you not only save money on energy costs, but you also help protect our environment. Using CFLs is one of the simplest ways to start saving!
What’s the difference between an ENERGY STAR CFL and others?
ENERGY STAR CFLs are different from the other CFLs because they meet strict governmental operation standards. To earn an ENERGY STAR, light bulbs and fixtures must pass extensive tests to ensure high quality light production. Use the chart below to help select the right CFL bulb for your needs.
Energy Use for Incandescent Light Bulb (Watts) |
ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs (Watts) |
25 |
4 to 9 |
40 |
9 to 13 |
60 |
13 to 15 |
75 |
18 to 25 |
100 |
23 to 50 |
125 |
28 to 40 |
150 |
30 to 52 |
Why were China-manufactured CFL bulbs selected for the discount program rather than CFLS made here in the U.S.?
The discount CFLs are Energy Star ® qualified. Currently there are no ENERGY STAR qualified CFL bulbs manufactured in the United States.
Why did Pepco choose CFLs for the Energy Efficiency Lighting Program rather than LED lights?
CFLs are the most energy-efficient lights available. Pepco chose CFLs over LEDs because of the recommendation by the U.S. government (Energy Star). PHI relies on the U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star program as the expert regarding energy-efficiency.
Are CFLs safe?
Yes, CFLs are safe. They do however, contain a small amount of mercury, are made of glass and can break - if dropped or roughly handled. Therefore, it is important to use care when removing the bulb from its packaging, installing it or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base (not the glass), and never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket. CFLs are safe to use and no mercury is released while the bulbs are in use. If a CFL breaks in your home, learn more about the EPA’s clean-up and disposal recommendations.
Note: Do not dispose of CFLs in an incinerator, fireplace or other burning device. Never use household cleaners to cleanup mercury spills
