I thought these were supposed to be long lived, but I seem to have to replace them at least as often as regular filament bulbs. Given that they are more expensive, and have mercury in them, I am not keen on using them if they are so short-lived.

Can you send them back? What sort of proof of purchase do you need?

Mr Fed Up, Oxfordshire

We've noticed the same, as has our next door neighbour. Once again the eco propaganda appears flawed.

Our old cfl bulbs are nearly 15 years old. about 6 years back i brought. 3 bright ones at 20 quid each they seem fine.

Deffontly a quality difference between branded expensive ones and the cheaper ones I have bought. The Philips ones are 5 years old and don't seem like they need to warm up where as the cheep ones I got 6 months ago have all bar one gone pop and flicker on start up and take ages to kick out full light.

I have GE ones, Philips and Tescos -they have all gone within short, though differing times