Save energy and money using Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs).
Here's something you can do this summer that will save you energy and money all year long. Replace your incandescent light bulbs with new compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and you'll cut your light bulb energy usage by up to 75%. CFLs are up to 4 times more efficient than incandescent bulbs and last up to 8 times longer. In fact, according to ENERGY STAR®, if every American home replaced just one light bulb with an ENERGY STAR®; qualified bulb, we would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year, more than $600 million in annual energy costs, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars.
Be sure to recycle CFLs properly by taking them to a household hazardous waste collection center or a CFL recycling drop-off location*.
Visit store and buy CFLs today
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulb?
CFL stands for compact fluorescent lamp, and it is a small fluorescent light bulb that uses up to 75% less energy than a traditional incandescent bulb and can be screwed into a regular light socket.
What are the benefits of using CFLs?
CFLs use less electricity, last longer and are better for the environment than conventional incandescent light bulbs.
Understand the value behind the bulb
Understand the equivalency in bulbs
How long will they last?
The average ENERGY STAR® qualified CFL light bulb is designed to last 8,000 hours - more than seven years based on typical household use of 3 hours per day. In comparison, typical incandescent light bulbs are usually rated to last from 800 to 1,000 hours.
Where should I use spiral bulbs?
Spiral bulbs generally offer the most light for the least money. They are more likely to fit in common light fixtures than other styles. Use higher wattage bulbs in shaded table and floor lamps, and lower wattage spirals in multi-socket ceiling fixtures.
Where should I use capsule bulbs?
Globe and A-style bulbs look similar to their incandescent counterparts. Use these types of bulbs in fixtures where the bulb is visible, such as bath vanities, mini-pendants, or fixtures with clear diffusers. Capsules will tend to not produce as much light per watt than spiral bulbs.
More Useful Tips
ENERGY STAR® Choose a Light Guide
Discover all the different types of CFLs.
CFL Sizes and Shapes
Many CFLs look identical to the bulbs they're replacing. Find the right ones for you.
How to Choose
Now that you know CFLs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, where should you use them?
Qualified CFLs and Color
Learn about the different shades of white light produced by CFLs.
CFL Cleanup Guidelines
Learn to use and recycle your CFL bulbs safely.
CFL Purchasing Tips
Various tips when considering your CFL options.
*CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing – an average of 5 milligrams - about the amount that would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen. Mercury currently is an essential component of CFLs and is what allows the bulb to be an efficient light source. No mercury is released when the bulbs are intact or in use. CFLs are made of glass and can break if dropped or roughly handled. Be careful when removing the bulb from its packaging, installing it or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base (not the glass), and never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that consumers take advantage of available local recycling options for compact fluorescent light bulbs. Consumer can contact their local municipal solid waste agency directly, or go to www.epa.gov/bulbrecycling or www.earth911.org to identify recycling options.