CFL Question

[TXHookem]

We started replacing bulbs throughout out house with CFLs about a year ago. I'm pretty much used to the difference in lighting and the cost is definitely worthwhile long-term. Here's a random question, though... let's say you have lamp that is rated for a regular 75 watt bulb. Can you use a 100 watt CFL bulb since it really only uses 26 watts but gives off 100 watts' worth? In theory, there's no issue there, right?

 

[NCAAFBALLROX]

I think you just broke the interwebs.

 

[Doughbroz]

I would install a triple socket and use three 26 watt CFL bulbs. That would give you the same amount of light as a 75 watt incandescent.

 

[jimmyjazz]

Yes. You just want to make sure the actual CFL power draw doesn't exceed the light fixture's power rating.

It's pretty hard to screw this up, since most CFL bulbs draw about 1/5 the current (and power) of a standard incandescent bulb. So, a fixture rated for 60 W could take a CFL bulb with a light output equivalent to something like a 300 W incandescent bulb. Those don't exist (as far as I know). In fact, I don't know if the CFL manufacturers make bulbs that draw more current than the typical fixture with that base allows. (Don't quote me on that.)

 

[homer]

nothing to contribute. i thought this was going to be a question on the canadian football league. yeah, its awesome.

 

[Mack Tripper]

what JJ said.