Are incandescent bulbs better than CFLs when used in short bursts?
No, not in terms of energy use. A criticism of CFL bulbs is that some can take a few minutes to achieve required lighting levels. However, alternative low energy lights exist for this type of location where light is required “instantly and for short duration, for example for the new generation of high intensity LED lights. Frequent switching off and on of any light bulb will reduce its lifetime considerably. This is as true of incandescent bulbs as it is of CFLs. The ESB is also launching a Guide to Energy Efficient Lighting, which advises on replacement choices. This will circulate in April/May 2009 bills.
