Are they changing the incandescent Light Bulbs to Fluorescent ?

Question

Do they look the same? Do they fit in a standard lamp? And what is the price range?

Answer 1

You're likely taking about compact fluorescent (CF). There are bulbs that are made to fit in standard light bulb sockets, and therefore don't require new fixtures. They are typically either "sticks" or "spirals."

They use less energy and are cooler. The latest crop of them are more-or-less instant start. While not as bad as tubes, most still have a flicker effect for some people. And they give off "fluorescent" coloring instead of incandescent. This isn't necessarily bad, though.

They are MUCH more expensive. Where as regular light bulb is under $1, one of these will run you $5 or so. However, they last much longer, so the cost/year ends up about the same.

If you break one, however, you've lost $5 instead of $1.

While they fit in standard sockets, they are not exactly the same size or shape. So, some fixtures won't work, if they rely on the bulb being exactly shaped/sized correctly (e.g., clip on lampshades).

Answer 2

Some incandescent bulbs do have a fluorescent bulb that will fit. It is more expensive to purchase but lasts longer. The 40 watt incandescent is brighter than the Fluorescent. A larger Fluorescent nullifies the power savings. It is all up to you.

God Bless You :)

Answer 3

Yes, and believe it or not, incandescent lamps are beginning to be outlawed in some states!http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/02/09/bulb.ban.ap/index.html

Although it sounds bad at first, it's really not that big of a problem! Many of these 'bulb bans' involve a free exchange program where participants can return one bulb and get one CF in return.

The new bulbs are an incredible improvement over the old ones, with every feature of incandescent plus much more!http://www.sunshinelighting.com/bulbs-compact_fluorescent.htm

Some of the newest CFL's are actually SMALLER than their incandescent counterparts. With new technology, these bulbs can last up to 10x longer, use up to 4x less electricity and can even be dimmed!
Even with all of the wonderful advances, it really isn't all that expensive!
Prices can go from the cheap valu packs at Wal Mart ($3-4 per bulb) to the scientific grade,also dimmable, used in upscale lighting applications ($15-40 per bulb!!)http://gallery.bcentral.com/GID5132153DD476546-Dimmable-CFLs.aspx