Compact Florescent Bulbs or CFL’s are a variation of the fluorescent tube. CFL’s work the same way, only are designed to fit into a standard incandescent bulb socket. They operate on a quarter of the energy used by incandescent, and can last up to ten times longer.
Choosing the correct CFL brightness is easy. Manufacturers of CFL bulbs list on the product packaging equivalency information to help consumers choose a bulb that produces enough light.
For example, if you are looking for a CFL to replace your 60-watt incandescent, look for the words “60 Watt Replacement” on the packaging. The CFL will be rated at 13-watts but give off the same light as a 60 watt incandescent bulb.
“Warm” or “Soft” CFL light is also the best to use for residential lighting.
“Cool white, or daylight” CFL bulbs give off a bluish white light that most people prefer for reading or detail work.
The majority of CFLs available in the market offer soft or warm white light (2700K–3000K), which is comparable to an incandescent bulb. When changing out multiple bulbs in one room, select ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs with the same color and the same manufacturer to help ensure more consistent light color.
| Energy Use for Incandescent Light Bulbs (Watts) | Minimum Light Output (Lumens) | Energy Use for common ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs (Watts) |
| 25 | 250 | 4 to 9 |
| 40 | 450 | 9 to 13 |
| 60 | 800 | 13 to 15 |
| 75 | 1,100 | 18 to 25 |
| 100 | 1,600 | 23 to 30 |
| 125 | 2,000 | 28 to 40 |
| 150 | 2,600 | 30 to 52 |