What's the Difference Between LED and CFL Bulbs?

In the world of lightbulbs, compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are neck and neck in terms of energy efficiency and long life. However, each bulb has its own set of pros and cons.

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If you're in the market for some new bulbs, understanding the difference between CFLs and LEDs can help you determine the best way to illuminate your space.

What Is a CFL Bulb and How Does It Work?

A CFL bulb is a type of lightbulb that uses inert gas and mercury vapor to create ultraviolet light. While incandescent and LED bulbs have distinct circular outer casings, CFLs consist of spiral-shaped fluorescent tubing. However, some CFLs are covered with plastic or glass outer shells to look more like traditional bulbs.

When you switch on a CFL bulb connected to a lamp or overhead lighting, electric current flows through the spiral tubing and connects with mercury vapor and a type of inert gas called argon. This connection generates ultraviolet light. While the UV light is invisible, it interacts with phosphor on the inside of the glass tube and creates visible light.

What Is an LED Bulb and How Does It Work?

LED lightbulbs are similar in appearance to traditional incandescent bulbs, with a few small differences. The inside of an LED bulb houses a microchip, LED light sources and a heat sink that collects heat and pushes it out into the surrounding air.

Incandescent bulbs light up when electric current reaches the filament inside the bulb and creates a glowing light. With LED bulbs, the electric current created when you flip a switch or turn on a lamp connects with and passes through the microchip instead of filament. This connection illuminates the LED light sources, creating visible light.

What Are the Pros and Cons of a CFL Bulb?

As one of the earliest energy-efficient lightbulbs, a CFL bulb has a lot to offer, including a long lifespan and versatile lighting options. While CFLs are often preferred over classic incandescent bulbs, it's still important to weigh out the pros and cons of this alternative lighting option.

Pros

• Energy efficiency: CFL bulbs are highly energy-efficient, using between 25% and 80% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs.

• Long-lasting: Standard incandescent bulbs last up to 2,000 hours, while CFLs can last 10,000 hours or longer.

• Versatile lighting: CFLs offer versatile lighting options, including warm light, cool light and white light.

Cons

• Contain mercury: CFL bulbs contain small amounts of mercury. The bulbs don't release mercury when fully intact, but they may release both vapor and mercury beads if the glass shatters. While research has shown the risk of mercury poisoning is minimal with CFL bulbs, some consumers prefer to use LEDs or incandescents for optimal safety.

• Emit UVA and UVC rays: Some research has shown CFLs may emit high levels of UV radiation, and prolonged exposure may harm the skin.

• Performance changes in extreme weather: Standard CFL lightbulbs have difficulty operating in extreme cold temperatures. It can take a long time for the bulbs to warm up, and the light produced is generally much dimmer than the listed wattage.

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What Are the Pros and Cons of an LED Bulb?

From energy efficiency and safety features to extended lifespans, there are many benefits to using LED lightbulbs. However, just like CFL bulbs, LEDs aren't for everyone. Here are some pros and cons of these popular bulbs:

Pros

• Energy efficiency: LED lightbulbs offer excellent energy efficiency, using up to 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs.

• Long life expectancy: While specifications can vary depending on the specific bulb model, LED bulbs can last up to 14 years while providing up to 50,000 hours of light.

• Mercury-free and recyclable: LED bulbs don't contain mercury, and they're fully recyclable.

Cons

• Higher purchase costs: The average cost of an LED bulb ranges between $5 and $7, while the average cost of an incandescent bulb is around $2 to $3.

• Not all bulbs are compatible with dimmers: While it's possible to use certain LED bulb models with dimmer switches, not all bulbs are dimmer-compatible.

• Potential for overheating: LED bulbs can be used in certain enclosed fixtures, but they may overheat when used with fixtures they're not compatible with. Overheating can also occur when the bulb portion is too large for the fixture, even if the base portion fits.