What Is the Temperature of a 100 Watt Bulb?

A 100-watt incandescent light bulb has a filament temperature of approximately 4,600 degrees Fahrenheit. The surface temperature of incandescent light bulbs varies from 150 to more than 250 degrees, whereas compact fluorescent light bulbs have a surface temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs typically last longer than incandescent bulbs and vary in color temperatures. Incandescence is a principle that results in the small production of light and a high production of heat. Although incandescent bulbs with higher wattage produce more light, they are not as efficient as fluorescent bulbs. A 20-watt CFL bulb can replace a 75-watt incandescent bulb in terms of light output.