CFLs can burn out early if not used properly. Here are some reasons why a CFL might not last as long as advertised.
CFL bulbs continue to be one of the most popular types of energy-efficient lighting out there, despite recent advancements in the LED field. CFL bulbs are cheap, long-lasting, and come in every color temperature, however, they tend to burn out before their typical 8,000 hour life. Luckily, there are some ways you can ensure your CFL bulbs live up those long-life claims!
CFLs are admittedly more finicky than incandescent bulbs. Some of the factors that can cause them to burn out early include vibrations, temperature, enclosures, use with incompatible dimmers, poor base contact with the fixture, and fluctuations in power. Whether the bulb is installed upside down or right side up also plays a part in determining if the bulb will burn out early or not. Also, using a bulb that is too large for the fixture it’s in can cause excessive heat, which is a top reason for early CFL deaths.
One of the simplest ways to ensure your CFL doesn’t burn out early is just by making sure it’s installed correctly. Always make sure you hold the base, not the bulb itself, when screwing the bulb into your fixture. Also make sure you don’t use CFLs in overhead fans or other sources of vibration, like garage door openers. The rough service application is another cause of shorter CFL life.
Do not use CFL bulbs in three-way sockets or with dimmers—some CFLs can work in these applications, but only the ones that are specially designed to do so. Always check the packaging of your CFLs to see if they can be used in three-way sockets or with dimmers! And if you do everything right and your bulb still burns out early, try contacting the manufacturer for a replacement.
