Don't be left in the dark about compact fluorescent lighting (CFL).

Don't be left in the dark about compact fluorescent lighting (CFL). Recently, a member had to replace her ceiling fan motors when she used a CFL in a light fixture wired with a dimmer switch. Some CFLs are designed for lights on dimmer switches. Be sure to check the packaging before purchasing to be sure. 

Also, if your CFL box says "don't use in enclosed fixtures or use only in an upright position" or "don't use outside," be sure you follow the instructions. Incandescent fixtures produce light by heating a filament. With dimmer switches, bulbs dim as the filament produces less heat. Regular CFLs produce light by regulating power to and through a glass tube rather than through heat. Placing a regular CFL in the light fixture may work at first; however, it will eventually either go out or cause the lamp to malfunction.

Several companies are now making CFLs for dimmer switches, just be sure you read the packaging first, and follow the instructions to protect your light fixtures.