Fluorescent Cost Benefit Analysis

Supposedly, the “great” thing about fluorescent lighting is their long life span and low energy usage. The Energy Star web site tells us that compact fluorescents use 2/3rds less energy than standard incandescent bulbs, last up to 10 times longer, and save $30 or more in energy costs over each bulb’s lifetime.

Well, last up to 10 times longer is not the same as last 10 times longer. For one group of lights in my kitchen, the compact fluorescent was the first to go out. I guess that one won’t be saving me $30.

4 comments… add one
  • Joan Link

    I just had the same thing happen to me with two of those bulbs in my kitchen. I’ve since heard that for lights where you’re constantly turning them on and off, the CFLs are not so economical.

  • Chad Link

    Read the warranty, i installed 80 fluorescents lights in my house and also had the same break downs happening. But.. there is a 6 year warranty on my 290.oo bulb investment and i have already replaced about 10 with in 3 years?? Good Customer service!! The bulbs do help the Pg&E bill.

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