Fluorescent Tube : Consumer Guide
The advantages of fluorescent tubes lie in the fact that it is able to convert for input power into visible light. On average, a fluorescent tube is two times more efficient than most light source. For a 4 watt fluorescent tube, the efficacy is 16 lumens per watt which can increase to almost 100 lumens per watt for a 32 watt tube with modern ballast. The efficiency of fluorescent lamps also depends on the temperature and type.
To improve the color reproduction of lower quality tube lights, some commercial outlets use a combination of tube types to save energy and create a pleasant environment. In relatively colder climates, T8 lamp is used which operates effectively at 77 Fahrenheit. The T5 lamp is more suitable to warm climates that have temperatures close to 100 Fahrenheit.
Fluorescent tubes are widely used in business and other commercial location due to its lower cost in the long run. The initial cost of fluorescent tube may seem to be higher but the greater life span and reduction of lamp replacement brings the cost down in long run. It is therefore the choice of businesses, worldwide. Due to its lower luminosity, fluorescent tubes produce an evenly distributed light which does not generate a bright glare at one specific spot. Apart from other advantages, fluorescent lights are popular in large organizations due to lower heat production. The air conditioning units of big corporations operate more efficiently due to the reduction of heat. The life span of fluorescent tube diminishes rapidly with frequent on and off switching.
Mercury is an important component of fluorescent lamp which helps to increase the life cycle of fluorescent light. Consumer services have criticized the manufacturers for putting just enough mercury to last the expected life of the lamp. The fluorescent light is not without its disadvantages. If the glass breaks, very small amount of mercury can contaminate the entire surrounding. Still, the advantages far outweigh negative implications.
Due to the presence of mercury, fluorescent tube should be disposed separately. In various nations, businesses are required by law to dispose fluorescent materials in a separate container. All fluorescent tube lights contain a designated number which shows the power, length, diameter and shape of the tube. Cool white color is the most common color in fluorescent tubes. Other colors include neutral white, warm light and even bluish daylight white. Many nightclubs around the world use the blacklight lamp which creates an after dark environment. Phillips and Osram are the two most popular brands in the world.
