How to Choose Between Incandescent and Fluorescent Lightbulbs

What should you look for in deciding between incandescent and fluorescent? Learn everything you need to know, now.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lightbulbs to browse through

1. What kind of feel do you want the bulb to give? Incandescent most often provides a warm white or full spectrum light, while fluorescent--depending on the bulb--can give off anything from a warm white to white, full spectrum, or daylight. Warm white goes best with warmer colors like brown or red, while cooler white goes better with cooler colors like blue or green. Full spectrum tends to bring out all colors.

2. Decide how long you want the bulb to last. Incandescent usually lasts a much shorter amount of time than fluorescent. If you don't like changing lightbulbs, fluorescent is the way to go.

3. How much power do you want to use? Incandescent bulbs use a lot more power than fluorescent, but incandescent is cheaper to buy. This makes them inexpensive in the short-term, but expensive in the long-term. Fluorescent is the opposite. You pay more for them initially, but pay less over the long-term since they use less power.

4. Decide if you want a dimmable bulb. Both incandescent and fluorescent offer this option. If getting a fluorescent, look into whether your dimmer will support the bulb before buying.

Tips & Warnings

• Fluorescent bulbs are given two watt ratings--the amount of power they actually consume, and the amount of power they would consume if they were incandescent bulbs producing the same amount of light.
• Make sure the light socket supports the bulb wattage. If the socket is rated for a lower wattage than the bulb, it could cause a fire.

[kenl123]

on 3/8/2009 There are many places where a compact fluorescent bulb (CFL) should NOT be considered:1. Outdoor fixtures in cold weather. Most CFLs do not work well when cold. They sometimes do not work at all, or take a long time to warm up.2. Don't bother with a CFL where it will only be used a few minutes a day, for instance in a closet. If it's not used much, it's not saving any money.3. Don't use CFLs in enclosed ceiling fixtures, or where it is used base-up. The CFL will work for a while, but will burn out quickly and not save any money. (Note - this warning is usually on the CFL package.)4. Don't use a CFL where it will easily get broken, such as in a child's room.5. Don't use a CFL in an oven or refrigerator for obvious reasons.

[bethjess39564]

on 12/6/2008 I did not know about the choosing for your wall color. Good info.