What are your experiences using CFL energy saver light bulbs?

Question

1. I'm interested in knowing how much savings on your energy bill... insignificant or quite noticeable.
2. Have you experienced anything negative in comparison to the regular light bulbs?
3. What were your reasons for buying the light bulbs? Cheaper energy bill? Reduce green house gases causing global warming? or Trendy?

Answer 1

I bought some to help with being an energy efficient household. They don't seem to have too much of an impact on our bills, but then again, most of our energy consumption comes from heating our house in winter, and we don't need a lot of light in summer since it is daylight until 9ish (Canada).

I did find some serious negatives - they should never be used in low wattage closed ceiling lights - there was a weird burning smell, and we took them out, a few weeks later someone we know had a fire from them. So, only use them in lights that are not closed completely - like a stand up lamp, or a ceiling light that just has a cover.

Answer 2

Tried one once on a floor lamp but it didn't fit. Too wide for the supports that hold up the shade. Kit included some cheesy little adapters, so the manufacturer knew it wouldn't fit. Whole thing was a botch. But, I will try it again in some less critical situations. Looks economically attractive. Environmentally, the jury is still out because of their mercury content.