Compact Fluorescent (CFL)

Compact CFL Bulbs – Energy-Efficient Fluorescent Lighting Solutions

Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs are energy-efficient alternatives to traditional incandescent lamps, offering reduced power consumption, longer lifespan, and reliable light output. CFL bulbs are widely used in residential, commercial, and facility lighting applications where fluorescent systems are already in place or where cost-effective retrofit solutions are required.

At Lighting and Supplies, our Compact CFL Bulbs category is organized by bulb type, pin configuration, and application to simplify replacement and bulk purchasing for maintenance teams, contractors, and everyday users.

What Are Compact CFL Bulbs?

Compact CFL bulbs are fluorescent lamps designed to fit into standard fixtures or dedicated plug-in sockets. Unlike linear fluorescent tubes, CFLs use folded, spiral, or twin-tube designs combined with either an integrated or external ballast.

CFL bulbs typically offer:

• Lower energy usage than incandescent bulbs
• Longer service life
• Reduced heat output
• Consistent light distribution

While LED lighting has become dominant, CFL bulbs remain essential for existing fluorescent fixtures and commercial systems that require direct replacements.

CFL Bulbs by Type and Configuration

Decorative CFL Bulbs

Decorative CFL bulbs are designed for fixtures where the bulb is visible. These bulbs balance energy efficiency with appearance and are commonly used in chandeliers, wall sconces, and accent lighting.

Best for:
Decorative fixtures, hospitality lighting, and visible applications

LED CFL Bulbs

LED CFL bulbs are retrofit lamps designed to replace traditional CFLs while maintaining the same form factor. These bulbs deliver higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance compared to standard CFL technology.

Best for:
Energy upgrades, reduced maintenance, and CFL-to-LED conversions

PL Bypass 2-Pin Plug-In Bulbs

PL bypass 2-pin CFL bulbs are designed to operate without a ballast. These bulbs require direct wiring and are commonly used when upgrading older CFL fixtures to a ballast-free configuration.

Best for:
Retrofit projects, maintenance upgrades, and simplified wiring systems

PL Direct 4-Pin Plug-In Bulbs

PL direct 4-pin CFL bulbs are engineered to work directly with compatible electronic ballasts. These bulbs provide reliable performance in fixtures designed for 4-pin operation.

Best for:
Commercial fixtures with existing electronic ballasts

2-Pin Plug-In CFL Bulbs

2-pin plug-in CFL bulbs include an integrated starter and are commonly used in compact commercial fixtures. These bulbs are easy to replace and widely used in downlights and wall-mounted luminaires.

Best for:
Hospitality, office lighting, and compact commercial fixtures

4-Pin Plug-In CFL Bulbs

4-pin CFL bulbs rely on an external ballast and are commonly used in professional and commercial lighting systems. They offer improved efficiency and longer lamp life compared to 2-pin designs.

Best for:
Office buildings, healthcare facilities, and commercial installations

Spiral CFL Light Bulbs

Spiral CFL bulbs feature a twisted tube design that maximizes light output while fitting into standard screw-base sockets. They are among the most commonly used CFL formats for general lighting.

Best for:
General-purpose lighting and screw-in fixtures

CFL Double Tube Bulbs

CFL double tube bulbs use a compact twin-tube design for efficient light output in small fixtures. These bulbs are often used in commercial downlights and enclosed luminaires.

Best for:
Recessed fixtures, compact housings, and commercial downlighting

Why Buy CFL Bulbs from Lighting and Supplies?

Lighting and Supplies is a U.S.-based authorized distributor supporting both small orders and large-scale lighting projects.

We provide:

• Bulk and wholesale CFL bulb pricing
• Trusted commercial-grade products
• Support for maintenance and retrofit needs
• Fast nationwide shipping
• Expert assistance for product selection

Whether you’re replacing existing CFL lamps, sourcing plug-in bulbs for facility maintenance, or transitioning to LED CFL replacements, Lighting and Supplies delivers dependable solutions backed by experience and service.