Compact fluorescent lamp


Compact fluorescent lamp

Compact fluorescent lamp

compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), also called compact fluorescent lightenergy-saving light, and compact fluorescent tube, is a fluorescent lamp designed to replace anincandescent lamp; some types fit into light fixtures formerly used for incandescent lamps. The lamps use a tube which is curved or folded to fit into the space of an incandescent bulb, and a compact electronic ballast in the base of the lamp.

Compared to general-service incandescent lamps giving the same amount of visible light, CFLs use one-fifth to one-third the electric power, and last eight to fifteen times longer. A CFL has a higher purchase price than an incandescent lamp, but can save over five times its purchase price in electricity costs over the lamp’s lifetime.[2] Like all fluorescent lamps, CFLs contain toxic mercury[3] which complicates their disposal. In many countries, governments have established recycling schemes for CFLs and glass generally.

CFLs radiate a spectral power distribution that is different from that of incandescent lamps. Improved phosphor formulations have improved the perceived color of the light emitted by CFLs, such that some sources rate the best “soft white” CFLs as subjectively similar in color to standard incandescent lamps.[4]

Efficiency comparison

Comparison
Incandescent Halogen Fluorescent LED (Generic) LED (Philips) LED (Philips L Prize)[100]
Electricity usage 60 W 43 W 14 W 10 W 12.5 W 9.7 W
Lumens 860 620 800 800 800 910
Lumens/Watt 14.3 14.42 57.14 80 64 93.4
Color Temperature Kelvin 2700 3100[101] 2700 3000 2700 2727
CRI 100 100 >75 >85 85 93
Lifespan (hours) 1,000 2,500 8,000 25,000 25,000 30,000

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_fluorescent_lamp