It is generally well known that fluorescent lights are more energy efficient and also that lower energy use results in lower electrical bills. However, there are still some questions about fluorescent lights that nag at consumers. These questions include whether or not to leave them on all the time and if it is a problem to have too many in one area. This article will address those issues.
Warm-up Time
A common question is about the energy fluorescent lights need when turned on. This is both a valid and inaccurate question, because people refer to the warm-up period. People want to know if this process requires a lot of energy each time and the only good answer is that it does a little bit. Studies prove that the process of starting-up a fluorescent light requires more energy after being switched on.
Leaving Fluorescent Lights On
However, that doesn’t mean that they expend energy in huge amounts though, and it also doesn’t mean that leaving the fluorescents on will save lots of energy either. It’ll certainly expend more energy if you keep the bulb on for a very long period. Compared to the small but noticeable increase in the energy usage of the bulb, leaving it on will certainly take more energy and power from the fluorescent’s lifespan.
Turning On and Off
Another concern that many users of fluorescent lights have is whether or not the lifespan is affected by frequently turning the light on and of. This is definitely a valid concern and it is also true for all types of lights, not just fluorescent ones. This has been proven by studies and so if you want your fluorescent lights to last longer, don’t constantly turn them on and off.
Energy Saver Bulbs
The following two types of lights are examples of newer, more efficient fluorescent light designs:
Compact Fluorescent Lamps: These replaced the old incandescent lights and one improvement is that the plugging ends are similarly shaped to incandescent bulbs and therefore they fit into any bulb fixture without problems.
Electrodeless Lamps: These were basically designed to have a longer lifespan than other types of fluorescent lights. These lights do not have electrodes in them and since fluorescent lights all burn out because of the electrodes, the removal makes the lamps last longer.
To sum things up, always turn lights off if you are not using then and if you purchase fluorescent lights always first compare price, quality and wattage of the lamp before making a decision. That way you know you are ensuring energy efficiency.
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