Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
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If every household in the U.S. replaced one light bulb with an ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL), it would prevent enough pollution to equal removing one million cars from the road. CFLs provide high-quality light, smart technology, and design, requiring less energy while lasting longer than typical incandescent bulbs.
Earning the ENERGY STAR
- ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs use 66% less energy than a standard incandescent bulb and last up to 10 times longer. Replacing a 100-watt incandescent with a 32-watt CFL can save you at least $30 in energy costs over the life of the bulb.
- ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs operate at less than 100F, they are also safer than typical halogen bulbs, which are frequently used in floor lamps or torchieres and burn at 1,000F. Due to their high heat output, halogens can cause burns and fires. CFLs are cool to the touch.
Remember, saving energy prevents pollution.
ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs provide the same amount of light (lumens) as standard incandescent bulbs, but have lower wattage ratings. This means they use less energy and cause less pollution. If you are unfamiliar with the best CFL wattage to use for your lighting needs, always refer to the lumen, or light output on the product packaging as your guide. For example, most 60-watt incandescents provide around 800 lumens, so look for ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs that provide 800 lumens or more.
Use the table below to become familiar with the lumen or light output range for the most popular residential incandescent bulbs.
| A-shaped Incandescent Bulb (Watts) | Typical Lumens (Measure of Light Output) |
|---|---|
| 40 | > 450 |
| 60 | > 800 |
| 75 | > 1,100 |
| 100 | > 1,600 |
| 150 | > 2,600 |
