Thursday, September 17, 2009

Benefits Of Fluorescent Lights

By Gregory Caddles

If you need new lights for your home, then you will be faced with several options. One of them, fluorescent lighting, should definitely be considered. This type of lighting is not new and has benefits, but also some drawbacks which fortunately can be addressed with some simple tricks.

Benefits of Fluorescent Lights

The biggest benefit of using fluorescent light bulbs is that they are energy efficient and use about 25% less energy in comparison to regular incandescent light bulbs. Also, fluorescent light bulbs last on average 4 - 10 times longer than regular bulbs.

Since fluorescent light bulbs use so much less energy, you will also save money. This means that you will cover the added initial purchasing cost of a fluorescent bulb in just three to twelve months time. Assuming that you will live in the same place for longer than that time period, fluorescent bulbs are cost effective for both homeowners and renters.

Another big advantage is that fluorescent lighting made today is also compatible with your eyes and won't cause any strain. This is especially beneficial for those that like to read. The lights also don't become hot and this means they are safe to touch and even children won't be harmed if they come into contact with a fluorescent light by accident. On top of that, fluorescent lights also are quiet and don't make any annoying noises.

If you're concerned about how your choice of light bulbs will impact the environment, then you'll be pleasantly pleased about fluorescent lighting. As mentioned, in the long-term they use less energy than incandescent light bulbs. More efficient light bulbs mean that they waste less of the Earth's resources.

Another bonus of fluorescent lighting is the longer lifespan which means you won't have to be pulling out the stool constantly to change bulbs, unlike the incandescent light bulb. This is a convenience to enjoy and the new type called CFL which stands for Compact Fluorescent Light screw directly into most standard light fixtures.

Drawbacks of Fluorescent Lights

Like with most things, fluorescent lighting does have a few drawbacks along with its benefits. When you first buy fluorescent light bulbs they will be more expensive than their incandescent counterparts but will return the extra spent on them in roughly 3-12 months due to the substantial energy savings.

Secondly, fluorescent light bulbs contain a small trace of mercury, so it's highly advisable to recycle them, to help preserve the Earth. Take them to a recycle center yourself, or return them to the store where you purchased them, for recycling.

The only other disadvantage of fluorescent light bulbs is actually no longer a problem. The new generation of fluorescent bulbs no longer flicker, need a long time to warm up, emit yellowish coloring or make strange buzzing sounds, things that the first generation of this type of lighting did do.

Anyone looking for cost effective, energy efficient and environmentally friendly lights should seriously consider purchasing fluorescent light fixtures and bulbs. Not only do they light up your home, but also will leave more money in your wallet.

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