In , MIKE wrote:
These bulbs are supposed to last much longer than incandescent types. I
have had several of them give up the ghost way too soon (the last was a
Philips brand). Has anyone else had this problem?

There are some reasons this happens - mostly from using them where they
do not do well.

1. Avoid the dollar store ones - I have found them to be stool specimens.

2. Their life will be shortened by being turned on and off a lot. Do not
use them in motion sensor lights. (One exception is the N:Vision 3-watt,
if I am not mistaken about that one being a cold cathode version.)

3. Compact fluorescents easily overheat in small enclosed fixtures,
recessed ceiling fixtures, and other downlights such as ceiling fan
fixtures. This occurs more with higher wattages, especially over 23 watts
(slightly dimmer than a 100W incandescent). Philips SLS ones (not spiral)
of 15, 20 and 23 watts (and not the dimmable one) are specifically rated
to take the heat buildup of recessed ceiling fixtures.

- Don Klipstein )