Modular CFLs are generally slightly more expensive initially and they will generally only accept a particular kind of replacement lamp. Many CFLs have locking, theft-resistant bases available to protect the investment, which can be particularly helpful in the case of outdoor floodlights. Any item purchased from this web site has a 30 day money back guarantee, and most companies offer multi-year warranties, even up to 10 years. As with incandescent bulbs, CFLs should not be crushed during disposal. They have a microscopic amount of mercury in the tubes, but, unlike with linear fluorescent lamps, it is not enough to qualify for regulated disposal.
Incandescent bulbs produce light by heating a tungsten filament until it glows.
Halogen lamps are even worse and present a serious fire hazard. The popular halogen torchieres have caused many fires and burn extremely hot. Thus CFL torchieres present a life and property-saving alternative for ambient light. CFLs consist of a ballast and tube. According to the Department of Energy, electricity in the ballast causes a gas in the tube to glow with ultraviolet light, which causes a white phosphor coating on the tube to emit visible light.