From AsktheDecorator.com

Fluorescent Lighting Checklist

By Meghan Carter

Fluorescent lighting is a smart choice because it:
  • Uses less energy than incandescent or halogen light bulbs, which means you save money.
  • Helps the environment by using less energy.
  • Produces light that looks similar to incandescent bulbs if you purchase the right fluorescent lighting.

What to look for when buying fluorescent lighting:
  • Check your lighting fixtures to see what type of sockets they have. Do they require a light bulb with threads that screws in or do they require a light bulb with pins?
  • Look how many watts your current bulbs are.
  • Check to see if a dimmer switch operates any of the light bulbs you will be replacing.
  • Write down how many of each type of fluorescent light bulbs you will need and which ones are operated by dimmer switches.
  • Don't panic when you see the price for fluorescent lighting at the store. Fluorescent light bulbs cost more because they last much longer than incandescent light bulbs.
  • Look for 13 watt fluorescent bulbs to replace 60 watt incandescent bulbs.
  • Look for bulbs with color rendering index of at least a 27 Kelvin.
  • Read the fluorescent light bulb label to see if it is compatible with dimmer switches. Not all fluorescent light bulbs can be used with dimmer switches.


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