CFL (Compact Fluorescent light bulbs) are the new style energy saving bulbs that screw into a regular light socket or lighting fixture. They come in many shapes and sizes and can also be an alternative to the standard incandescent globe. In comparison to incandescent light bulbs, fluorescent bulbs last between four and fifteen times longer (depending on model and brand) and use approximately one fifth less energy. While they are more expensive initially, the cost is paid back between three and twelve months (depending on the types of bulb in question and the hours of use per day). This means that the typical homeowner, or many renters, would do better with CFL fluorescent bulbs as they wouldnt have to change the bulb as frequently, have 80% energy saving and help the environment at the same time. They also run a lot cooler so therefore reduce cooling costs as well.
A CFL Fluorescent Globe can replace just about any incandescent bulb. Because they put out less heat than incandescents, these globes can be used to provide more light in enclosed fittings, where a 60 watt globe is the maximum recommended (most enclosed household fittings). Add to that the long life (many times that of a normal bulb) and the fact you can save up to 80% off your power bill (good for the environment) and there is no good reason not to change. Most are available in a choice of colours warm white (similiar to colour as a standard incandescent light), cool white or daylight (kitchens and work areas). Available in a choice of wattages. 10 watt (= to 50 watt standard globe), 15 watt (= to 75 watt standard globe) and 18 watt (= to 90 watt standard globe). Edison Screw (E27 or ES) , Small Edison Screw (E14 or SES), Bayonet Cap (B22), Small Bayonet Cap (B15 or SBC) and GU10 base.
12 volt spiral compact fluorescent lamp, for use with low voltage DC power supplies are suitable for battery and solar power supplies. Super long life - 8,000 hours with a 80 % energy saving. Warm white (3000K) colour. Available in 15 watt (= to 75 watt standard globe) and 20 watt (= to 100 watt standard globe), in either Edison Screw (E27) or Bayonet Cap (B22).
Compact Fluorescent Candles will replace most incandescent candle bulbs, as long as a dimmer switch is NOT in use. Get a huge 80% power savings by using only 5 watts of power with the equivalent light output of a standard 25 watt globe. These globes are long life - 5,000 hours, which for the average user means many years between globe changes. Available in bayonet cap (BC / B22) and Small bayonet cap (SBC / B15) base and Small Edison Screw (SES / E14) and warm white and daylight colours.
GU10 Compact Fluorescent are the newest addition to the CFL family. They come in a range of wattages and sizes from 7 watts to 18 watts. There is also a choice of warm white or daylight colour temperature in most models. These can be a great replacement for Halogen GU10 Lamps.
FAQ - Do CFL Compact Fluorescent Bulbs Flicker and Buzz?
The first generation of fluorescent light bulbs used magnetic ballasts rather than electronic. What this basically meant was that it took longer for the charge to get to the bulb causing it to flicker, make noise and take a bit to warm up. The powering up process was not as strong or consistent. Similarly, the CFL globes also used halo-phosphors in the fluorescent tube rather than multiple-phosphors, causing the light emitted to have a bland yellowish tint. Since then, the technology has made leaps and bounds. While once they were the very definition of institutional gloom, they now come in even more variations of white (and colour) than the older generation bulbs.
FAQ - Are all CFL Compact Fluorescent Bulbs stark white colour like a hospital that makes you look pale?
No but if you dont know what you are buying the chance are you will but the wrong colour globe and hate it. A lot of people tell me that they hate CFL globes as the colour is too white and not nice to live under. This is not true. Fluorescents come in many colours but the 3 main colours are warm white (a yellowy colour white), cool white and daylight (which is white white - almost blue). If you pick the daylight colour the chances are that when you put it in your fitting at home you wont like it. Daylight colour though has its place and a lot of people love them but 90% of the time you should be looking for a warm coloured globe for your house. Sometimes colour is shown as.
FAQ - Do Fluorescent Bulbs Flicker and Buzz?
The first generation of fluorescent light bulbs used magnetic ballasts rather than electronic. What this basically meant was that it took longer for the charge to get to the bulb causing it to flicker, make noise and take a bit to warm up. The connection was not as strong or consistent. Similarly, they also used mono-phosphors in the fluorescent tube rather than multiple-phosphors, causing the light emitted to have a bland yellowish tint. Since then, the technology has made leaps and bounds. While once they were the very definition of institutional gloom, they now come in even more variations of white (and color) than the older generation bulbs. |
