Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs)

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are an energy-efficient alternative to traditional incandescent light bulbs. CFLs are designed to fit into sockets that are also used for incandescents. Compared to incandescents that give off the same amount of light, CFLs use less power and have a longer rated life. As a result, they can provide cost savings over the lifetime of the bulb, even though the initial purchase price of a CFL is generally higher than for an incandescent. Governments in the United States and several other countries are strongly encouraging the widespread adoption of CFLs, even to the point of phasing out incandescents. CFLs do have certain disadvantages: they generally are not recommended for outdoor lighting, or situations in which they would be rapidly turned ...