What are the advantages and disadvantages of Compact Fluorescent Lamps?

The advantages are

· CFLs are up to four times more efficient than incandescent bulbs

· While initially they may cost more, CFLs are less expensive in the long run as they last much longer than incandescent bulbs

· CFLs are highly versatile and can be used in any setting that you would normally use incandescent bulbs

The disadvantages are

· CFLs when used outdoors need to be covered and protected from the elements. They are also sensitive to temperature

· While CFLs are supposed to last about 10,000 hours, turning them on and off too frequently can reduce that lifetime substantially

· CFLs are not suitable for focused or spot lights or where narrow beams of light are required. They are meant only for ambient light.