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Dimmers and Compact Fluorescents: Pros and Cons
Author: Chris Bacavis Posted Date: 3/27/2008 8:53:14 PM
Compact fluorescent (CF) bulbs can be found, especially recently, in a number of fixtures. If these are a part of your lighting setup, you may have questions about the usefulness of dimming switches.
We all know what dimmers are for. Basically, dimmers are great devices for energy savings, money savings, and adjustment of light to suit various applications. Reduced energy consumption means lower electric bills. According to the Leviton institute, for example, a light bulb at 50% brightness uses approximately 40% less electricity. This will in turn make it last up to 20 times longer. A bulb at the same brightness can also create a desired mood, accent artwork or any standout items in a room, and offer a host of other benefits.
Since most compact fluorescents are incompatible with dimmers, however, you should approach any kind of CF/dimmer setup with caution. Dimmers will actually decrease bulb life for most CFs. With this being the case, it is important that you buy bulbs which are specifically noted (on packaging, for example) to work with dimmers. Such models are also meant to work with multiple lighting levels.
One important thing to always keep in mind is consistency. Make sure the CF bulbs you're using are of the same wattage, brand, and age. Ballasts should be given this consideration as well.
We'd like to hear from you: Can anyone tell us what brands and manufacturers offer dimmer-compatible CF bulbs? Or, on the other hand, are there any dimmers that you know to work well with compact fluorescents?
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12/31/2008 8:36:36 PM
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