I previously published a somewhat negative article about compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs). Brantl left a comment on the article saying:
So, based on your non-scientific research, you’re dissing CFLs. Try again when you’ve got real data. And by the way, get a light meter.
Bulb Life
At the time, I was disappointed that a CFL bulb I purchased burned out sooner than incandescent bulbs in the same light fixture despite the fact they are marketed as lasting longer than conventional bulbs. I thought perhaps it might just be a fluke related to generic brands of CFLs. However, I have now had three CFLs burn out while old incandescents are still working. These fast-failing CFL bulbs include name-brands like Sylvania.
Good Light
My other main complaint was that low wattage CFL bulbs do not provide the same light as traditional incandescent light bulbs despite being marketed as equivalents. Commenter brantl suggested that I need to get a light meter prior to making a complaint. However, the inferior lighting power is revealed simply by reading the fine print on the CFL packaging. The Sylvania micro-mini CFL 60 watt replacement (13 watts) packaging states in tiny print:
For almost as much light (825 lumens vs 850 lumens)
Obviously, almost as much light is not the same thing as the same light.
The Future of Light Bulbs
I’m all for conserving energy and saving money, but so far CFLs have not delivered good results in my home. Perhaps in the future, improved CFLs or next-generation LEDs will provide excellent results. In the meantime, I am going back to incandescents in high-use areas.
Have you had negative experiences with CFLs? …or do you recommend CFLs?
See Also: