View Full Version : Energy saving bulbs
vyki
Sep 27, 2006, 03:01 PM
Some lampshades have a max wattage you can use with them which is based on normal light bulbs, what happens with the energy saving ones?
e.g. I have a shade that says to use 60 watts max can I use a 15 watt energy saving one that is the equivalent of a 100 watt normal bulb? :confused:
tkrussell
Sep 27, 2006, 04:07 PM
The wattage rating on a lamp or socket is based on the amount of heat created by an incandescent lamp. Using a 15 watt compact fluorescent lamp in a socket rated for 60 watts is fine.
The CF lamp light output at 15 watts is equivalent to the light output of a 60 watt incandescent lamp.
Fr_Chuck
Sep 27, 2006, 04:15 PM
I will note that the new bulbs work great, we changed our entire house a few months ago and love them.
Agree with tkrussell on the heat issue
letmetellu
Sep 27, 2006, 08:37 PM
Tkrussel... I have a question regarding light bulbs mounted under fans. I have bought the expensive bulbs that are the vibration resistance type and they go out just as fast. Is it a wise idea to buy higher voltage bulbs, say 135 volts, if I buy a higher wattage to get the same amount of luminesce
tkrussell
Sep 28, 2006, 07:50 AM
What kind of fans? Paddle ceiling fans? There is that much vibration?
Are you referring to "Rough Service" lamps as the vibration resistance?
These lamps are designed for drop lights, for example, and usually hold up very well.
Yes, going to 130 Volt rated lamps will help with hours or operation, if used on 120 volt.
If the lamp you are using is found rated higher than 130 volts, I know some lamps are rated at 145 volts, light output will be diminished, and the next size or so lamp may be needed to achieve the amount of light needed.
Will compact flourscent lamps work in the fixtures you have?
Premature failure of incandescent lamps can be caused by any one or combination of voltage higher than lamp rating, entrapped heat of the lamp, and excessive vibration.