Compact fluorescent lighting
A bright idea for savings
Compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) uses one-third to one-quarter the energy to produce the same amount of light as an incandescent bulb. And it will last 10 times longer. An average CFL used approximately four hours a day every day of the year would last more than 4 ½ years!
Why buy compact fluorescent lighting?
- CFLs use 1/4 to 1/3 the energy to provide the same level of light as an incandescent bulb, which loses most of its energy as heat.
- In household applications, a CFL can save up to $50 in energy costs during its life compared with an incandescent bulb.
- CFLs last 10 to 13 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs. The typical life of a CFL is 9,000 to 10,000 hours. Standard incandescent bulbs last 750 to 1000 hours.
- CFLs are available in warm, neutral white, or cool white colors.
- CFLs fit in most standard light sockets.
- CFLs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Get the most from your compact fluorescent lighting
- Use CFLs in areas where lights are left on for two or more hours.
- Use outdoor-grade CFLs to light areas such as porches and walkways and in security lights and enclosed outdoor fixtures.
- Use CFLs in table lamps, down lighting, wall sconces, corridors, and in hard-to-reach places where changing bulbs frequently is difficult.
Compare for yourself
Compact fluorescents are available to replace incandescent bulbs of 40, 60, 75, 100, and 150 watts. The following chart displays common wattage equivalents. Compact fluorescent bulbs have lower wattages because they require less electricity to produce the same amount of light.
Fluorescent lamps contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing that is harmful to the environment. Call the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency at 800-657-3864 for proper disposal information. Read what the EPA recommends for clean-up and disposal if a fluorescent bulb breaks.
Wattage equivalents |
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|
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60 watt |
15 watt |
75 watt |
20 watt |
100 watt |
28 watt |
150 watt |
39 watt |
