Where to use ENERGY STAR® qualified compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs
Where lights are being used for three or more hours a day, a CFL bulb can maximize your energy and money savings.
- A hard-to-reach socket makes a CFL bulb ideal – it lasts longer, so you’ll change it less.
- A CFL bulb may be an option when you need a brighter light without exceeding a fixture’s maximum-rated wattage.
- In dimmable fixtures, only use dimmable CFL bulbs.
- CFL bulbs are not recommended for motion-sensor fixtures or photo cell fixtures that automatically turn lights on at night.
Choosing an ENERGY STAR qualified CFL bulb
Select the right shape and size
Use the chart below to select the best CFL bulb for your lighting fixture.
Select the right color
CFL bulbs give off a different quality of light based on their Kelvin color temperature (K). Use the chart on the right to select the CFL bulb with the correct color for your space.
Select the right wattage
CFL bulbs use fewer watts to give off the same amount of light. Use the chart below to choose the CFL bulb that has the equivalent wattage to the incandescent bulb you are replacing.
*Assumes average 10,000 hours at $.09 kWh (9,000 hours for torchieres).
More information
For more information, read the benefits of ENERGY STAR qualified CFL bulbs flier (488 KB PDF).
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