Compact Fluorescent Lights -
Talking Points

The Energy Star website has information on compact fluorescent bulbs, and here are some talking points:

  • Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) use only about one fourth as much electricity to produce the same amount of light as regular incandescent bulbs. Check lumens for precise comparisons.

  • Replacing three extensively-used bulbs in your home with CFLs will reduce 600 lbs. of carbon dioxide released into the air because of reduced power generation.

  • CFLs typically last from 6,000 hours up to 10,000 hours, 10 times the longevity of regular bulbs.

  • CFLs screw in like regular light bulbs.

  • CFLs do not flicker. Choose those with an electronic ballast, and bulbs will come on instantly with no flicker.

  • CFLs produce a “soft light” comparable to regular bulbs. Just as the color of the light varies among incandescent bulbs, the color varies with compact fluorescent bulbs - from warm white to cool white to daylight.

  • Although CFLs cost more than regular bulbs, they save so much in electricity and longevity that they save an average of nearly $10 per year per bulb. And CFLs are getting less expensive all the time.

  • CFLs can be purchased at many hardware stores - local, regional, or national chains. It is suggested that you patronize your locally-owned hardware store, but Home Depot is one example of a national chain that sells a good assortment of CFLs. 
    NOTE: Some cheaper brands may not perform as well as some of the national  brands. Previous bad experiences with these brands may be why some people think CFLs don't work. (See Consumer Reports magazine January 1999 for details.)

  • For outdoor use and for use with timers or dimmers, you must buy special CFLs. Regular ones will not work.

  • Check to make sure the CFL will fit in your fixture. There are many shapes and sizes available.

  • THE DEMO: Get a pair of identical lamps for comparison. Put one of each type of bulb in the pair so people can see that lighting is comparable. Display a simple sign explaining what your display is about. (Click here for a sign you can use.) The important points:

    • The lamp fixtures are identical.

    • One has a 60 watt regular bulb.

    • The other has a 15-watt CFL.

This page is adapted from the 1-2-3 Response to Global Warming Campaign developed by the 1st Unitarian Church, Portland OR