Can I use a 23 watt flourescent bulb in a small lamp made for a 40 watt incandescent bulb?

Question

I needed a couple of small lamps for the house, but I didn't want to spend much. These lamps were super cheap, but look nice. The only catch was, that they are limited to 40 watt bulbs. I had the bright (ha ha) idea that maybe I could use those flourescent bulbs that replace your normal lightbulbs, because they are only 23 watts. At the same time, I get the same light output as if it were a nice 100 watt incandescent bulb.

Then, I started wondering if I might be running a fire risk anyway.

Anyone have any idea about this? Is it safe? How does the heat output compare? Flourescent is more efficient than incandescent, and if a 40 watt incadescent is ok, then a 23 flourescent should be too, no?

I'm kind of sure about this, but I'd rather pick other minds than start an electric or lamp shade fire in my house.

thanks
Kevin

Answer 1

As long as the rated wattage of the bulb is less than that of the lamp you are fine. The equivalent wattage that is printed on the box for the fluorescent does not matter, it simply tells you how much light to expect.

So the short version is you can do this without any problem.

Answer 2

If the bulbs fit in the lamp with the shade on, they will not cause a problem from heat. Most problem arises from the size of the energy saver bulbs. You need not worry about a lampshade fire if the shade is rated for a 40-watt incandescent bulb.

Answer 3

A 60 watt fixture can handle a 32 watt bulb just fine. The 120 rating is the amount of light compared to a conventional bulb, not how much power it draws.

Answer 4

It should be fine-- my kitche requires 40 watt indoor flood lights, impossible to find in town.. so i get some flourescent ones, use 23 watts and produce 60 some watts worth of light..they work great

Answer 5

I would say it can be used. The wattage consumption is less than the 40 watt bulb, thus less heat.

Answer 6

I bought alot of those new bulbs and I love them, they are much cooler and the heat is the fire hazard as I understand it so I would do that. Oh yes, I already have..

Answer 7

absolutely