Ask an Expert :: Lighting

Where can I find CFLs for dimmer, recessed, or other non-standard lights?

Thank you for your question. On this website you will find a list of participating retailers, who supply energy efficiency products, including compact fluorescent light bulbs. If your bulbs are a special size, you may need to ask your local provider to order them for you. Many of the larger stores such as Lowes and Home Depot are carrying a pretty comprehensive selection of CFLs at this point.

How can I buy the right size CFL when all I ever buy is 60-watt light bulbs?

All CFLs sold have the equivalent size regular bulb listed on them (60- watt = 15 watt). One of the best rules of thumb is, if replacing general lighting divide your regular bulb by 4 (60/4 = 15) and look for a CFL close to that number. For lighting needed in areas where you do close work, read, or just desire additional light, divide by 3 (60/3= 20). You will have more light than before and still save a lot of energy.