A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), also known as a compact p or energy saving light (or less commonly as a compact fluorescent tube (CFT)), is a type of fluorescent lamp. Many CFLs are designed to replace an incandescent lamp and can fit into most existing light fixtures formerly used for incandescents.
Compared to general service incandescent lamps giving the same amount of visible light, CFLs use less power and have a longer rated life.
In the United States, a CFL has a higher purchase price than an incandescent lamp, but can save over US$40 in electricity costs over the lamp's lifetime.[1]
Like all fluorescent lamps, CFLs contain mercury, which complicates their disposal.
CFLs radiate a different light spectrum from that of incandescent lamps. Improved phosphor formulations have improved the perceived color of the light emitted by CFLs such that some sources rate the best 'soft white' CFLs as subjectively similar in color to standard incandescent lamps.[2]
120 watt light bulb to 32 watt CFL: 43/100
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Saves over 860 pounds of CO2, 172 gallons of H2O, 14,319,000/17 btus of energy, 7,955/1,122 pounds of Al, gain almost 559/5 pounds of O per year
100 watt light bulb to 23 watt CFL: 19/50Edit
75 watt light bulb to 19 watt CFL: 27/100Edit
60 watt light bulb to 14 watt CFL: 11/50Edit
40 watt light bulb to 9 watt CFL: 3/20Edit
15 watt light bulb to 3 watt CFL: 1/20Edit
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