Calculate CFL savings for yourself

Compact Flourescent Lightbulbs (CFLs) may cost more in the store than their incandescent countrerparts, but they could end up paying you back that price difference many times over because they last up to ten times longer than standard bulbs, and use up to 75% less energy.

Today's CFL bulbs come in a variety of sizes and styles and are made to fit standard lamp openings. Hard to reach fixtures and lights that are used for at least 15 minutes at a time, or stay on a for several hours each day are going to give you the maximum benefit from changing to CFLs.

There are reflector type CFLs and those specially made to work in three way lights or fixtures controlled by a dimmer. However, they're not generally recommended for use in high moisture areas like bathrooms or where exposed to rain. Also, do not use CFls in fixtures that are completely enclosed.

Not sure what to buy? CFL packages are usually marked with their incandescent equivalent on the front of the package, but there is some variation between brand names. A 13 watt and a 15 watt CFL bulb, for example, would both be equal to a "standard" 60 watt bulb.

CFL Wattage	Standard Equivalent
9-13	40
13-15	60
18-25	75
23-30	100
30-52	150