Do you use compact fluorescent bulbs?

We’re working on a report on compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) for our October 2007 issue, and we’d like to hear from you. If you use CFLs in your home, tell us about your experiences with them. If you haven't installed any CFLs, let us know us why.

We’re eager to learn about how you use CFLs and help you benefit from this energy-saving lighting. Please take a few minutes to answer the questions below, and send your answers directly to us at home@cro.consumer.org. Thanks in advance, and look for story in the October issue.

Do you use CFLs in your home?
Yes
No

If yes, how long ago did you first start using them?

1. Last 6 months
2. 1 year
3. 2 years
4. 3 years
5. 4 years or more

How many have you installed in your home?

1. Fewer than 5
2. 6-10
3. 11-15
4. 15-20
5. 21 or more

If you haven't used CFLs, why? (please provide details)

Is the higher upfront cost of CFLs a factor in your using them?
Yes
No

What has your experience been with CFLs? (please provide details)

What issues do you have with CFLs (e.g., light quality, humming noise, odd bulb shapes, cost etc.)? (please provide details)

How do you dispose of CFLs?

1. I throw them out with the trash
2. I bring them to municipal recycling center or other facility
3. I’ve got a boxful of old bulbs since I don’t know what to do with them
4. Other (please provide details)

More information: If you have any questions about CFLs—how to use them, where to install them, how much to pay for them—please send them to us.

Comments

[Ed Burke]

I have not always been able to use the compact florescents because the large round base can interfere with the light fixture and prevent it from being screwed into the socket. Many light fixtures were just not designed for these bulbs.

I do use them when I can , and the outside lights have improved. They used to have a problem lighting up in cold winter weather, and they seem to be much better now than just a few years ago.

[Lynne Brown]

I have been using CFLs in table lamps for over a year. The higher cost seems more than justified by the longer life span of the lights. There are CFLs on the market now that fit most fixtures. I've not noticed any difference in quality between the CFLs and conventional bulbs in the table lamps.

To save electricity, I recently replaced the six recessed flood lights in my kitchen with CFL floods. The initial result was not pleasing - the overall lighting was dimmer and colder. My solution was to replace two of the CFLs with conventional flood lights over the cabinets. Their warmer light bounces off the cabinets and give the kitchen a warmer feel.