Using energy-saving lamps

(12/07/2007)

If you need a light source in a bulb or candle shape you can have it a an energy-saving version. There are also products that do more than “just” save energy.

• Wattages: 7 W = 35 W. Anyone with just a basic knowledge of arithmetic will tell you that equation cannot be right. But it is. Energy-saving lamps produce more light from much less electricity. If you wanted to replace a 35 W incandescent lamp you would only need a 7 W energy-saving lamp to achieve the same amount of light.

Many luminaires are designed to take bulbs with a maximum wattage of 60 W or even 40 W so they are restricted in the amount of light they can give out. With energy-saving lamps, however, these same luminaires can emit much brighter light. A 30 W energy-saving lamp, for example, produces the same amount of light as a 150 W bulb.

• Light colors: Anyone who says they are unhappy with the color of the light from their energy-saving lamps should take the trouble to check the Kelvin value of the lamp. The appearance of the light from a lamp is defined by its color temperature. The unit of measurement for this is the Kelvin (K). An energy-saving lamp, which provides a “warm” light similar to that from an ordinary light bulb, has a light color of 2700 K. Osram makes things easier for consumers by labeling this light color “warm white”.

Energy-saving lamps of poor quality often claim a light color of 2700 K but cannot display this properly. When buying energy-saving lamps it is best to choose quality and therefore the Osram brand in order to avoid disappointment. None of us want to relax at home in a bluish or even greenish light.

• Lamp types: It is a common myth that energy-saving lamps are available on in tube form. Consumers now have a wide choice of shapes, sizes, bases and wattages.

• Disposal: Energy-saving lamps fall into the category of “discharge lamps” and contain small amounts of mercury. This means that consumers cannot simply throw energy-saving lamps out with normal household waste as they do with ordinary light bulbs. Energy-saving lamps can be disposed of free of charge at community waste disposal centers or collection centers for electrical equipment. The components of the lamps, such as glass, metals and phosphors, are recycled.

Osram has released a range of energy-saving lamps. The Osram Dulux EL Dim is the world’s first infinitely dimmable energy-saving lamp and can be used with most phase dimmers. The Osram Dulux EL Vario has a two-stage dimming function which is operated using the light switch. The Osram Dulux EL Reflector is an energy-saving spotlight lamp which provides focused light for objects or walls.

The Osram Dulux EL Sensor is ideal for constant lighting that is automatic, economical and reliable. It automatically switches on at dusk and off again at dawn. The high-quality sensors provide light at the right time.

The energy-saving lamp with the most striking shape is the Osram Circolux EL. It was developed specifically for shielded and pendant luminaires. Because of its special design it distributes the light very evenly.

Related categories:  Lamps   Lighting control system   Luminaires   Office and commercial   Residential