How does a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) produce light?
Electrical current is run through a gas-filled
tube. The stream of electrons excites mercury gas atoms in the tube. When the
atoms return to an unexcited level they release photons of light. These
photons, which are in the ultraviolet range, collide with the bulbs phospor
coating creating visible light.
How does an incandescent light work?
An electrical current is passed through a very thin
tungsten filament. Resistance in the filament turns electrical energy into
heat. The heat causes the filament to become 'white hot' producing white light.
Incandescent bulbs spend a lot of energy producing heat making it less
efficient than fluorescent bulbs.
What is the average lifespan of CFL vs.
incandescent bulbs?
Modern CFLs have a life span between 6,000 and
15,000 hours. By comparison, incandescent lights tend to have a life span
between 750 and 1000 hours.
How do incandescent lights save you money?
Incandescent lights are able to save you money
because they require much less electricity than traditional light bulbs do.
Therefore, even this minor investment can greatly reduce the amount of power
your lights are consuming. This is the thing about this type of light which
will help keep your electric bills in check. If you have recently installed a
solar energy system at your home or business, switching to incandescent lights
will even act to shorten the payback period for that system! |
