Do CFL bulbs work outdoors?
CFL bulbs generally work acceptably outdoors. They should always be protected against rain and snow. Many of today’s CFLs will start at temperatures as low as zero degrees Fahrenheit and some at 20 degrees below zero (read the packaging). CFL performance is temperature-sensitive. Light output is greatest at typical room temperatures and falls off at low and high temperatures. CFLs used outdoors in cold temperatures will take longer to reach brightness and won’t produce as much light as when used indoors. When used in an enclosed fixture, the bulb’s heat warms the fixture, and the light output is generally acceptable even when it’s quite cold.
