There are many different types of light bulbs on the market, but the one I am going to talk about and explain today is the fluorescent type.

These bulbs are gas discharge lamps that use electricity to excite mercury vapor; they require a ballast to keep the power flow running properly throughout the bulb. These bulbs tend to be more expensive than regular bulbs, but then they make up for it with lower energy costs. They tend to last longer than other types of equivalent bulbs, fluorescent tubes are usually larger than others but they work very well.

Fluorescent tubes give off much less heat than other types of lights, which means that in hot weather or hot weather you won’t get as hot just turning the light on.

Another advantage of fluorescent tubes is that they have a much longer lifespan than many other light bulbs, this lifespan can last up to 20 times longer than the standard equivalent, which will definitely help with running costs and replacement costs as well. of the bulbs. They don’t need to be replaced as often as other bulbs.

Even though fluorescent tubes can have a very good lifespan, there is a downside: If you frequently turn lights on and off, the bulb’s lifespan will be drastically reduced, which can end up costing you more money in the long run when buying further. Therefore, if you are using fluorescent tubes, it is recommended that you use them in locations where, once you turn on the light, you expect to have the light on for over an hour at a time.

Another disadvantage of fluorescent tubes is that they can be a health and safety risk. If they break, they can leak small amounts of mercury, which can be very dangerous. Therefore, if the tube breaks, it is recommended to remove the glass. it is wiped up with damp paper towels and then disposed of in sealed plastic bags to prevent anything from being contaminated with mercury.

Fluorescent tubes work best when in rooms at room temperature and if exposed to higher or lower temperatures this efficiency is severely affected which can mean that in places that are cold enough the bulbs may not turn on at all. absolute.

Another problem with these tubes is that they are subject to flicker, which can become very annoying or dangerous for people who are sensitive to flicker, for example people with epilepsy. Flickering occurs if your fluorescent tubes use mains frequency magnetic ballasts that not only put out normal constant heat, but flicker very fast to maintain their illumination. So if there are interruptions in the ballast, flickering can occur.