BULB PLACEMENT FAQ
CFLs provide the greatest savings in fixtures that are on for a substantial amount of time each day. At a minimum, install qualified CFLs in fixtures that are used several hours per day or at least 15 minutes at a time.
The best fixtures to use qualified CFLs in are usually found in the following areas around your home:
- Family and living rooms
- Kitchen
- Dining room
- Bedrooms
Here are some points to consider when choosing CFLs for your home:
Where will the CFL be used?
Remember, CFLs save more money when they're in the fixtures you use the most. These include fixtures in the kitchen, living or family room, porch or post lamp. They are the best places to start converting from incandescents to CFLs. Certain types of fixtures, like 3-way lamps and those on dimmer switches, require special types of CFLs. Be sure to find the right style and type of CFL for each.
How much light do you need?
CFLs come in the same brightness levels as incandescent bulbs. Just look for the power rating you want to use. CFLs list the equivalent incandescent rating right on their package. So from reading lamps to outdoor flood lights, you'll find a range of intensities for your home.
Our retail partners can help..
Most retailers have staff on hand who are happy to answer your CFL questions. There will often be a number of CFL options for each fixture in your home. Your choice will depend on how you use each one. Don't be afraid to ask for advice.
Matching the right CFL to the right kind of fixture helps ensure that it will perform properly and last a long time.
For example:
- CFLs perform best in open fixtures that allow airflow, such as table and floor lamps, wall sconces, pendants, and outdoor fixtures.
- For recessed fixtures, it is better to use a Reflector CFL than a Spiral CFL since the design of the reflector evenly distributes the light down.
- If a light fixture is connected to a dimmer or 3-way switch, you can purchase an ENERGY STAR® qualified CFL designed to work in these applications. Make sure to look for CFLs that specify use with dimmers or three-way fixtures. A regular CFL can be used in a 3-way lamp, but you will only get light in the middle of the three on positions.
- Choose a qualified CFL that offers a shade of white light that works best for you. For example, while most CFLs provide warm or soft white light for your home, you could choose a cooler color for task lighting.
- To choose the ENERGY STAR qualified CFL with the right amount of light, find a qualified CFL that is labeled as equivalent to the incandescent bulb you are replacing. Light bulb manufacturers include this information right on the product packaging to make it easy for consumers to choose the equivalent bulb. Common terms include "Soft White 60" or "60 Watt Replacement."
- You can also check the lumen rating to find the right CFL. The higher the lumen rating, the greater the light output.
