View Full Version : Watt conversion on fluorescent lights
BigRed1500
May 30, 2007, 05:58 PM
Trying to confirm my thinking on the wattage conversion on fluorescent lights versus standard incandescent bulbs. Example - I have a 2-bulb porch light fixture that is rated for 60 watt bulbs (120 total). I have some fluorescent bulbs that pull 19 watts but are equivalent to a 75 watt incandescent bulbs. If I use these 2 fluorescent bulbs, I'm only pulling 38 watts, correct? I'm pretty sure I'm OK here, but I want to make sure I'm not overloading this fixture. Thanks
JPM71299
May 30, 2007, 06:54 PM
You are correct in your thinking! Pull will be 38 watts which is less than 1/3 the pull of your two 60 watt bulbs. Less draw at the fixture, less draw on your wallet when the electric bill comes!
tkrussell
May 31, 2007, 02:52 AM
When a compact fluorescent lamps states "equivalent to an incandescent lamp" ,it means it is equal to the lumen, or light, output, but at a much lower wattage of that incandescent lamp.
The fixture can handle up to 60 watts, does not matter if incandescent, fluorescent, or any other load that does not exceed 60 watts.