Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Self-ballasted compact fluorescents are the wave of the future for home and commercial applications. They may be used in any standard 120-volt socket. They replace the standard incandescent bulbs that have been used for years. On all models we have tried to include the equivalent wattage. For example, a 15 watt fluorescent will give the lumens of a 60 watt incandescent light bulb. The energy savings is considerable - 45 watts of consumption.

• Compact Fluorescents have a longer life, use less electricity, and have more color options than incandescent bulbs. They are all amazing products.
• CPF lamps feature flicker-free starting and silent operation.
• These high-efficiency compact lamps pack a real punch with savings as high as 75% over standard bulbs and they last up to 10 times longer , cutting utility costs on average of $75.00 per installed unit.
• Excellent for general, task, and security lighting; can be used in most fixtures where a medium screw base is used.  These lamps operate cooler so you can put them into any fixture without overheating.
• CPF lamps feature flicker-free starting and silent operation.

Full Spectrum Compact Fluorescent Reading Lights

The Sunshine light bulbs are the newest and most advanced full spectrum reading bulbs in the world today. Each bulb has a flicker-free electronic ballast and is compact enough to fit into most household lighting fixtures.

The Sunshine bulbs with a phosphor blend was designed and developed by a team of lighting experts and led by one of the inventors of full spectrum lighting. This newly designed blend creates a glare-free light which increases visual acuity levels and can help you concentrate longer with greater comfort.

Sunshine reading bulbs can also reduce eye stress and strain while creating a color balanced and relaxing environment. As an added benefit, modern research has shown that correct full spectrum light can significantly increase students' test scores and productivity among workers.

• 93 CRI, 5550° Kelvin
• Provides Natural Color As In Sunlight
• Increases Visual Acuity
• Reduces Eye Fatigue
• Creates a Glare-Free and Comfortable Reading Environment
• Duplicates Vivid Absolute Color
• 90% Lifetime Lumen Output
• Flicker-Free Electronic Ballast
• Long Life: Rated for 10,000 Hours
• Available in 20, 23, 26 & 30 watt

Typical sizes for compact fluorescent bulbs by wattage: 20 watt is 4 1/8" long while the 23 watt is 5" long and the 26 is 5 1/8" long. This small size makes them cost effective for use in incandescent light fixtures. Ideal for replacing your current high-wattage, short-lived bulbs.

Comparison Chart to 90 Watt Incandescent Bulbs*

Compact Fluorescent Questions and Answers

Prices

Why do compact fluorescent lights cost more?
The price of high quality compact fluorescent lights has decreased recently. Part of the price relates to the costs of compact fluorescent technology. Remember that the compact fluorescent light has a built-in micro size ballast.  This makes the lamp cost more than regular light bulbs. 

Savings

Can I really save energy and save money on my electric bill?
Yes. Compare a 15 watt compact fluorescent light with a 60 watt incandescent bulb that provides an equivalent amount of light: In 10,000 hours you would pay about $17 for one compact fluorescent light and $7 for the electricity to run the light. In 10,000 hours you would need to buy 10 incandescent bulbs (they last only 1000 hours per bulb) for a cost of about $2.00 and your electricity costs would be $20 to run those bulbs. Bulbs plus electricity cost $24 when using compact fluorescent lights versus $105 when you use standard incandescent bulbs. By using a compact fluorescent light the savings is $51 for this example.

Size

Why aren't compact fluorescent lights as small as regular incandescent bulbs?
A compact fluorescent light includes a lamp and a ballast or transformer. The incandescent bulb has no ballast. While compact fluorescent lights have been larger than their incandescent equivalent bulbs, the newest lights are less than one half inch larger than the equivalent 60 watt incandescent bulb.  The new spiral compact fluorescent light will fit most fixtures, but it is wise to measure each fixture before ordering.

Applications

Where should I use my compact fluorescent lights?
As you can see by the energy savings and longevity of the CFL, anywhere the lamp will fit is a good place to use them. However, the best places for compact fluorescent lights are in frequently used fixtures that are on for at least three hours at a time. Difficult to reach fixtures are also good places to put compact fluorescent lights.

Where are some places that compact fluorescent lights should NOT be used?
Because of electronic interference compact fluorescent lights can not be used on dimmers.

Can I use compact fluorescent lights in three-way lamps?
There is no danger in doing this, but you will get light only in the middle one of the three "on" positions. 

Will compact fluorescent lights work where it's cold? Where it's hot?
Always check the light package for exact recommendations, but generally, compact fluorescent lights can be used in the 20°F-140°F range. Many new products like some compact fluorescents lamps will start at temperatures to -20°F, though the light output may be somewhat reduced at very low temperatures. When compact fluorescent lights operate at temperatures above 140°F, there may be reduced light output and premature ballast failure.

Will they work where it's damp?
Do not install compact fluorescent lights where they will be exposed to water or snow directly. You can install compact fluorescent lights in sheltered exterior places. Some compact fluorescent lights have ventilation holes to keep them cool. Do not install that type of compact fluorescent light where moisture or water can get in the holes.

Lifetime

How long will compact fluorescent lights last?
That depends on what type of compact fluorescent lights you purchase. Compact Fluorescents as one-piece units should last 10,000 hours.