Saving energy has indirect benefits, too. Depending on how the power is generated, using less energy also reduces air pollution, greenhouse gases, nuclear waste or fish deaths. But you may not know that compact fluorescent lamps often contain small amounts of toxic compounds, such as mercury, cadmium or radioisotopes.
Some ballasts can degrade power quality or interfere with other electric appliances.
Lighting experts sometimes question manufacturer's claims of lamp life. If compact fluorescents are to achieve their promise as a major energy resource, consumers will need to select products with confidence. Green Seal makes the consumer's job easier by establishing a rigorous set of environmental standards and then testing products to see if they measure up. Electronic Double Biax and 15 watt Electronic Double Biax. All six certified products have built-in ballasts with screw bases that fit typical light sockets.