Spiral Lightbulbs?

[mr_pikachu]

Okay, so most of you have probably heard of the new, energy-efficient lightbulbs by now. For those who haven't, a brief recap...


The new lightbulbs cut energy use and reduce emissions. The U.S. government recently passed legislation to phase out the old version in 2009. Some other countries have already switched to the spiral.

Many preliminary users, however, have complained of problems with the new bulbs. Some say they provide less light than the original; others claim they cause migraines for those nearby. Perhaps most alarming is the mercury they contain (fun fact: mercury thermometers were all but outlawed in the U.S. years ago because of the danger that mercury poses). This means that old bulbs cannot simply be thrown in the trash; theoretically, one might have to call a HAZMAT team to clean up a broken lightbulb.

Still, for many proponents the benefits of reduced emissions and energy costs outweigh the detriments. Such inconveniences, they say, are inconsequential compared to the future of earth.


What do you think about the new spiral lightbulbs? Have you used them before? Or are you preparing for the change? Sound off, people!