OPINION:
I was disappointed when I read that we are going to be stuck with another law that forbids us to do what we think is best in our own homes (“Light bulb ban repeal bill fails in the House,” Web, July 12).
A couple of years ago, I switched to fluorescent bulbs, thinking they might be better. I’m truly sorry that I wasted my money and effort. The bulbs I changed ranged from 60-watt curlicues to 6-foot-long ceiling bulbs for my garage, ranging in cost from about $4 to more than $12 apiece, plus the cost of wiring in the case of my garage lighting. All have failed to live up to their promises.
One garage ceiling bulb has failed and had to be replaced because the end, which plugs into the fixture, simply broke off. Luckily, it did not fall off and damage my car, an antique.
Among the curlicues, most of which were installed about 18 months ago, five have failed. One bulb separated from its socket in the lamp and the others simply died and had to be replaced.
In addition to the poor quality, there are other problems, too. When first turned on, they take up to five minutes before reaching full brilliance, which can make reading emergency instructions difficult.
There is, of course, a solution to the problems of poor-quality, dim lights and the possibility of mercury poisoning: the incandescent bulbs we already use. They have a 10-year shelf life, shine brightly and don’t have mercury. I’m using them to replace all my curlicues as they break.
JAMES R. CAMPBELL
Arlington
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