Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) are designed to be a more energy-efficient alternative to standard incandescent bulbs as they use less electricity and usually last longer compared to incandescent bulbs. A great choice for you if are looking for an easy way to save energy and reduce the cost on your electricity bills.
CFLs come in several different shapes. There are 4 main bulb shapes of CFL that you can find in shops.
1. Globe shape
Fluorescent globe bulbs are specialty bulbs that have a short base and extremely round top like a “globe”. This type of bulb is suitable to be installed in a pendant fixture, ceiling fan lamp or even in a wall scone.
2. 2 U-tube
2U CFL bulbs have two parallel tube, sometimes known as “double tube” or “dulux lamp”. They are usually used with downlight.
3. 3 U-tube
3U or triple tube CFL bulbs are easy to spot due to their three light tubes, usually used with chandelier and wall lamp.
4. Twisted
Twisted CFL bulbs emit 10-20% more light compare to 2U, and are used with wall lamp, downlight and chandelier.
You might wonder, how long will CFLs last? To answer that, CFL bulbs have an average lifespan from 6,000 hours and up to 15,000 hours of usage, so they rarely need replacements. In comparison, traditional incandescent light bulbs usually last up to 1,000 hours.
Of course, the actual lifetime of the bulb will be affected by the frequency of on-off cycles as well as the operating environment. For instance, if the bulb is installed in an extremely cold or hot environment, it may result in a shorter lifespan.
