Can I use a CFL bulb in a fixture with little airflow?

Question

There is a light in my house that we use excessively, six hours a day. We must replace the bulb at least 3 times a year, so this is an ideal place to save energy. Problem is, its a close fixture. Can I use a CFL bulb there, and will it function with no air flow?

Answer 1

I have quite a few CFLs in non-ventilated enclosures.  They do fine.

Answer 2

There are some that are fine to use, but most still are not.  Mu husband was unaware of this, and put one in an enclosed fixture in our bedroom.  After about three months or so, there was a continual buzzing sound which grew louder until almost unbearable, and blew.  The bulb didn't break, it just stopped working.  We were fortunate as I have come across cases in which fires were started (thus far small, but always an inconvenience,) by doing just that.  

1)  Just because they do not emit as much heat doesn't mean that there is no fire risk.  

2)  Look on bulb or package.  I have GE CFLs which state right on the base of the bulb that they are not intended for use in fully enclosed fixtures.

3)  There are (I have heard) some that are specially made for enclosed fixtures.  I am still searching for them, as it seems far more practical to get those than to replace the three remaining light fixtures in my home still on incandescents.

Answer 3

Yes as they have low or little heat.

Answer 4

Well sure. It'd be better as it puts out very little heat. That's it's energy saving feature.

Answer 5

As long as the wattage of the CFL does not exceed the wattage rating for the fixture.