Health Canada says CFL bulbs are safe
The Canadian government will be phasing out non-energy efficient lighting by the year 2012. As a result, this will lead to increased sales of energy efficient lighting including Compact Fluorescent lamps (CFL), Halogen lamps and new LED light bulbs as alternatives to incandescent bulbs. There have been some recent concerns raised about CFL bulbs and the possible health hazards they may pose.
In December 2009, Natural Resources Canada conducted a study, the “Report on Health Canada Survey of Ultraviolet Radiation and Electric and Magnetic Fields from Compact Fluorescent Lamps”, that examined the health implications of using CFLs. The conclusion of the study is that CFLs do not pose a health hazard to the general population from either the ultraviolet radiation or the associated electric and magnetic fields.
Builders endorse green features
Builders today expect to hear upgrade requests for advanced technologies and efficiencies. Forward-thinking homeowners want to be assured of the healthiest, most durable, least wasteful materials—and if possible, they want to live in the smartest house on the block.
“All you have to do is ask,” says Todd Blyth at Nudura, a leading name in building system technology. “For example, more and more builders have already discarded the traditional wood-framing method—now seen as inefficient and wasteful—in favour of concrete walls.”
Programs reduce greenhouse gases and cut costs
With the rising cost of natural gas, oil and electricity, buying a high-efficiency furnace, central air conditioner or heat pump is an economically and environmentally-responsible decision to make. The HVAC EnerGuide® and ENERGY STAR® programs help homeowners make energy-wise purchase decisions. The goal of these programs is to reduce Canada's energy consumption and therefore reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Before purchasing a new furnace, central air conditioner or heat pump, you should consider the benefits of energy efficient equipment. A somewhat higher upfront investment can provide significant savings over time.