Shopping Tips

• CFL brightness decreases over time, but higher-watt CFLs maintain a higher lumen output for a longer period of time.

• To provide sharp contrast in workspaces and under reading lamps, buy a CFL labeled “daylight,” or with a higher Kelvin temperature.

• Repeatedly turning CFLs on and off shortens their lifespan: Install CFLs in fixtures or rooms you keep lit for more than 15 minutes at a time.

• Because CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, call your sanitation department or visit www.earth911.org to find out the best way to dispose of bulbs in your area. For tips on cleaning up a broken CFL, see "Concerned About Quicksilver."