Are CFL Bulbs Better than Other Types of Lighting?

When your light is one the verge of wear out and you need to replace it, which kind of light do you buy next?

There are many types of light available around in the marketplace. However, choosing one that balances out affordability and high-quality function can give you a hit-or-miss sensation. After all, you wouldn’t want to buy the wrong kind of light, only to find out that it doesn’t light up your space the way you want it to.

It is important to do your research beforehand. Think through before weighing down your choices and then decide afterwards. Among the top choice of bulbs that customers prefer, CFLs are always on the list. It has long been a standard bulb that many look into. If you’re considering CFLs for upgrading the lighting atmosphere, Sydney North Shore Electrician can help you in achieving that.

Pros of CFLs

CFLs wouldn’t be a top choice by many consumers if it didn’t pose any advantage. CFLs have been around for a long time. Moreover, a lot of innovations changed the CFLs is currently in the market. If you’re thinking of CFL, these are the pros of a CFL:

✔︎ CFLs last 4 to 10 times much longer than Incandescent and Halogen Lamps.

✔︎ Australia puts CFLs into subjected tests and performance standards by the Council of Australian Governments to guarantee high quality and safe function.

✔︎ Every year, CFL switches from Incandescent Lights save many Australian households an average of $75.

✔︎ CFLs generally use about 25% to 80% less energy than Incandescent Lights to function.

✔︎ CFLs can come in a wide range of colours. If you want different coloured lights, CFLs won’t be a limited option in lighting design and installations.

Cons of CFLs

CFLs don’t come without its faults. No matter how efficient and cost-effective it is, it will still have disadvantages. Industries can still make more improvements to make CFLs a better choice than it was before. If you’re thinking of purchasing a CFL, look out for these too:

✘ CFLs aren’t very suited for colder temperatures. Weather conditions play a big role in its light emission performance.

✘ CFLs contain mercury. This is a big concern for environmental impact and health safety.

✘ It’s more challenging and technical to dispose of CFL bulbs. There are many guidelines in its disposal because of its mercury content.

✘ CFLs have a higher initial cost than other types of light.

✘ They aren’t suitable for dimmer switches. Using CFLs as dimmer lights can result to faster overheating and wiring wear out.

The verdict on CFLs

CFLs are widely in use right now. The real question is this: “Are they better light sources?” The answer is, it depends on the use. All kinds of lights have their suitability and appropriate use. CFL can only offer so much.

• CFL lasts longer than most types of light. An average CFL has a life span of 6000 to 15000 hours. Compare this to Incandescent Lights with a service life between 750 to 1000 hours.
• On average, CFL cost the most among all kinds of light. There is less replacement cost for each bulb you buy because of its long average life span. CFL is more cost-efficient in the long run.
• To produce the same amount of light, CFLs need less energy than Incandescent Lights, but more energy than LED Lights.
• CFL contributes to negative environmental impact by mercury emissions. Australia has set a standard limit of only 5 mg mercury per bulb of CFL. This is generally lower than the mercury level of Incandescent Lights.
• CFL doesn’t emit better light in colder weather conditions compared to LED Lights. Also, only fewer brands are good for dimmer switch options, compared to LED dimmer lights.

Conclusion

Generally, CFLs are worthy investments in lighting installations and design. It saves you a lot in the long run. If you plan to light up indoor spaces, CFLs are a better option than Incandescent Lights. However, if you want to light up outdoor spaces like gardens, LED Lights are better choices. No matter which light you choose, always have a safe home and Lighting Electricians helping you. Sydney North Shore Electrician can give you that work. Don’t hesitate to call us!

Contact us at (02) 8378 2828 or book an appointment with us here.