It is a common
misconception that the energy-saving light bulb is a
relatively new invention. It was, however, first invented back in the 1940s in collaboration
between George Inman and General Electric. Known as a ‘compact fluorescent
bulb’ or a CFL, these energy-efficient bulbs work on entirely different
principles than the incandescent bulbs invented by Thomas Edison. As they begin
to come to prevalence over the conventional older bulbs, it is important for
the public to understand how CFLs differ from incandescent bulbs, and why they
are a more efficient lighting solution for the vast majority of homes and businesses.
CFL bulbs function as a
result of an electric current passing through a mixture of argon gas and
mercury vapour. As the current passes through the mixed substance, the mercury
vapour emits an ultraviolet light, which then interacts with a layer of
phosphor on the side of the CFL. This emits photons in the visible light range
and illuminates the area. This is why CFLs initially need more electricity and
take a few seconds to ‘warm up’; the electric current flow must be generated to
an appropriate level before the bulb hits its full brightness. Once this flow
has reached its maximum amount a CFL uses a good deal less energy than an
incandescent bulb to provide the same level of illumination.
The main difference
between energy-efficient light bulbs and
incandescent light bulbs is that the newer, more eco-conscious models have no
filament. Incandescent bulbs rely on heating this filament to produce light, so
without such a process in place, the new bulbs reduce the amount of heat energy
wasted by massive amounts. The lack of filament also means that there are less
parts to ‘burn out’ or falter as time goes on. CFLs have life spans that can
reach into the decades depending on their usage; the initial price of the CFL
is slightly higher than an incandescent bulb, but their longevity ensures they
will outlive their energy-wasting predecessors and end up saving money in the
process.
The energy-saving bulbs
that are on the shelves today come in a vast variety of shapes and wattages,
with different bases to ensure that those wishing to install them need not make
wholesale changes to their electrical configurations. They are available for
use with dimmable switches as well as spotlights and other decorative or
feature lighting, making them one of the most diverse ways to light up a room. Their
cost-effective nature combined with their green credentials, which are always
being improved upon in the latest technological advancements, are just two of the
many reasons why the switch to CFLs and energy-saving lighting
solutions cannot be ignored.
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