Fluorescent Lighting Saves Energy

In a traditional (incandescent) light bulb, the resistance of the filament to the electrical current passing through causes the filament to become hot, thus producing light. However, heat is not light, so energy is wasted.

On the other hand, fluorescent lighting uses a tube with electrodes at each end, filled with a gas. A stream of electrons flows from one electrode to the other, exciting gas atoms. The gas atoms must then release photons to return to an unexcited state. The photons hit the phosphor coating of the tube, thus creating visible light. A fluorescent bulb produces less heat, so it is up to four to six times more efficient than a traditional light bulb.

We are going to install fluorescent lighting in our new shed and carport. Inside the house, we have replaced all our light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights. Replacing your incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent tubes is a very easy way to save money and energy.

Tags: fluorescent lighting, save energy, save money, efficient lighting