I know those CF bulbs are supposed to harbour poisons. But the rest of it doesn't compute with my experience.

Take my kitchen (please, take it!): I have two double-bulb fixtures on the ceiling there. Four years ago I paid twelve dollars for a six-pack of curly bulbs and put four of 'em in the kitchen. Those lights are on all day every day because the kitchen is under the roof slope and has no windows (please take it?).

When I used incandescents, I replaced all four bulbs about once every two months - that adds up. Since I replaced 'em, I've changed two bulbs - in four years. I replaced a lot of other incandescents over the following year, as they burned out. Bought the CFs on sale. I've had to replace one of those - in the bathroom we use most which also has no window, (same reason as above, please take it too). Without even considering the power bill, those things have saved me a fair amount.