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There are several factors that should be taken into consideration when purchasing compact fluorescent light bulbs. There are a large amount of benefits associated with the purchase of compact fluorescent light light bulbs.

1. Choose the right color temp is the information is available.
E.g. approximately 2700k = Warm light (looks like incandescent bulb)
5000k = Cool White (white/blue offer higher CRI)

2.Match lumens to incandescent lumens. (Lumens indicate the amount of light generated. Watts measure energy use, not light strength.)

40 incandescent watts = 8-10 CFL watt range =450 Lumen Range; Charts are available online and on some packaging.

3.Models come in variety of shapes and sizes. Chose shape and size best suited to fit the socket it is being placed into.

Spiral Lamps are designed as continuous tube in a spiral shape. The light cast is similar in quality to that of incandescent bulbs.

Triple Tube Lamps contain more tubing in a smaller area generating even more light in a shorter bulb. This packs a high light output into a very small space such as reading lamps.

Standard lamps are designed to look like traditional light bulbs. These are basically spirals with a dome cover.

Globe lamps are commonly used in bathroom vanity mirrors which require a multiple number of lights. They reduce heat build up while still providing the right amount of light for those delicate morning makeup applications.

Flood lamps are good for recessed and track lighting fixtures both inside and outside. They are designed for these uses, produce less heat and the light is not as harsh as other lights.

These all come with standard sockets for easy installation in common household appliances.

Candelabras are designed for smaller light fixtures. Socket reducers can be used if you would like to install them in regular fixtures.

There are several benefits to using compact fluorescent light bulbs.

1.Four times more energy efficient than incandescent light bulbs.
2.less expensive (purchase price is more but they pay for themselves in a short time with energy savings and fewer replacements.)
3.reduces water and air pollution
4.give off high quality light

There are some limitations to the use of compact fluorescent lights that mean they are not always going the best choice for all lighting applications.

1.Compact fluorescent light bulbs are sensitive to frequent on/off cycling. The average rated lifetimes of 10,000 hours is reduced in applications where the light is switched on and off frequently.

2.Not all compact fluorescent bulbs can be used in dimmer switches. There are bulbs available for this though.

3.Outdoors- bulbs should be protected from the elements.

4.Not good for retail lighting since the light is not concentrated in one spot. They are better used for area lighting.

5.The bulbs contain small amounts of mercury which is a toxic metal so proper disposal is important.

This should help with the act of purchasing compact fluorescent light bulbs.

Works cited:
http://www.eartheasy.com /live_energyeff_lighting.htm

Learn more about this author, L. Beall.
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