The Six Primary Types of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Written by Amy on June 18, 2008 | Comments (1)

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) can save the consumer as much as $30 over the life of the bulb when compared to incandescent lighting. While many consumers may be familiar with the energy savings, few are aware of the variety of CFLs that are available on the market.

CFL Bulb Choices Abound

Ranging from the popular spiral to the decorative candle bulb, there is a compact fluorescent light bulb that will fit any situation in residential construction.

Spiral CFL bulbs

The most popular type of compact fluorescent light bulbs, a spiral shape can be used anywhere a traditional incandescent light once was. If you wish to replace the light in a dimmer or three way switch, check the packaging so that you can choose one made specifically for that purpose.

The Incandescent-Shaped A-Shape CFL bulb

If you are concerned about the aesthetics of compact fluorescent light bulbs, the A-shape bulb may be the perfect solution for your home. Essentially a spiral bulb with a dome of clear glass that mimics an incandescent light, A-shaped bulbs give a good approximation of more traditional lighting.

Globe CFL's Have Their Place in the Home

Globe CFLs are made to be on display, such as in a bathroom vanity fixture. These CFLs mimic globe incandescents, making them a great choice for a more retro look.

Tube CFLs

Tubed CFLs were some of the first compact fluorescent light bulbs available to consumers. If you have a fixture with a long space for an incandescent bulb that is long and narrow, this is the bulb you should seek. There are also specialty tubed CFLs that provide a much more compact shape than spiral bulbs.

Decorative Candle Shaped CFLs

Shaped like an incandescent candle bulb, these CFLs are appropriate for decorative lighting tasks. They come in varying sizes and colors to fit many different lamps and holiday novelty items.

Bright, Circular CFLs Get the Job Done

These CFLs, fashioned into circles of varying diameters, can produce traditional white fluorescent light or a warmer light if an electrical ballast is included in the bulb.[even more varieties of CFL bulbs]

Which Type of CFL Bulb is Right For You?

It is important to determine which type you need for your fixture and the lighting situation you wish to create. With this variety of options and energy savings, choosing a compact fluorescent light bulb is the best choice for homeowners.

Are CFLs Cost-Effective?

The U.S. government estimates that if every household in America replaced a single incandescent with a CFL, the United States would save $600 million dollars in energy costs annually. For those people concerned about the initial cost difference between the two bulb types, try purchasing a few CFLs at a time to replace the most used incandescents in your home.

Related

The OLED - Organic Light Emitting Diode - a bulb on the cutting edge of efficiency

Still not sure which CFL bulb is right for your specific needs? The Energy Star Light Guide walks you through it to make the right choice (very cool web tool).

Concerned about the mercury content if you break a CFL bulb?

Where To Use CFLs with Visual Aids

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