Full Spectrum Fluorescent Lamps - 11/22/2004 - House Systems Electrical

Full Spectrum Fluorescent Lamps

Improved fluorescent products achieve aesthetically appealing lighting.

Historically, fluorescent lighting’s bluish hue has turned people away from using the energy-efficient lighting in living spaces. However, the warm tones of newer fluorescent lighting make it almost indistinguishable from incandescent lighting. Manufacturers have introduced “full-spectrum” fluorescent products that have a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) and Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) that mimics natural daylight.

"Full spectrum" lighting refers to light that attempts to mimic natural lighting by having a CCT of about 5,000 to 6,000 K and providing light in wavelengths across the visible spectrum. Full spectrum lamps typically have color rendering indices above 90 (incandescent lamps are typically over 95; old “blue” fluorescents are about 70). Although not marketed as full spectrum, fluorescent lighting having a color temperature of about 2,700 to 2,800 K produces a warm light that mimics incandescent lamps.

A full spectrum fluorescent lighting system typically consists of: an electronic ballast, control wiring, power wiring, a wallbox switch and fixtures with full spectrum fluorescent lamps. Full-spectrum lighting is available to fit hard-wired (pin-type) fixtures as well as lamps that screw in to conventional lighting fixtures.

The lighting quality of a fluorescent lamp depends on the combination of chemical phosphors used. The two main types of phosphors are halophosphate, for warm and cool white lamps, and triphosphate which contains one phosphate for each primary color. These are mixed in the proportions necessary to achieve the high CRI associated with full spectrum fluorescent lighting. Triphosphate fluorescent lamps can be tuned to vary color output across the spectral range, by adjusting the type and amount of phosphors within.

Compact fluorescent lamps emit electromagnetic frequency wavelengths, which can interfere with household signals such as television and radio. For this reason, manufacturers recommend positioning these lamps at least eight feet away from such devices. There has been concern that the disposal of fluorescent components may allow toxic chemicals into our environment because all fluorescent lamps contain mercury. Alternatives include low-mercury lamps and lamp recycling.

	Fluorescent lamps use about one-quarter the electricity of an equivalent incandescent lamp. In hot climates, they provide a further benefit by reducing the heat output from the lamp.
	Fluorescent lamps last about five or more times longer than incandescent lamps. Their high-quality light output improves the lighting quality within the home over standard fluorescent lighting.

Full spectrum fluorescent lamps cost about three times as much as conventional fluorescent lamps.

Energy cost will be slightly higher than conventional fluorescent lamps (because the efficacy of full-spectrum lighting is slightly lower) and about one-quarter the operating cost of standard incandescents. Lamp life is about five times that of incandescent lighting, potentially savings on replacement cost.

Check with the local utility or manufacturer for rebate or credit programs that may be available.

Not Applicable

Full spectrum fluorescent lamps work with the same ballasts and wiring that ordinary fluorescents do. Compact fluorescent lamps may be self-ballasted. For other lamps, ballasts can be bought separately to be used with full spectrum lamps, or purchased as a system. And like ordinary fluorescents, ballasts can be mounted in various places but it is best to keep the wiring runs short.

Not Applicable

Full spectrum fluorescents are usually at least two to three times the cost of quality cool white fluorescent lamps. But because the light is pleasant enough to replace incandescent lighting, savings can eventually be recouped in lower electric bills and fewer bulb changes, depending on the frequency of switching. Photosensors, occupancy sensors and/or time clocks can also be used to further increase energy savings.