Does low ballast factor instant start operation reduce fluorescent lamp life?
Concerns over early failure of T8 fluorescent lamps operated with instant-start low ballast factor (LBF) ballasts have led some users and utilities to discount the technology, perhaps prematurely. These ballasts cost less and are more efficient than rapid-start LBF ballasts, and even if they reduce lamp life substantially, are more cost-effective in many retrofit applications. While early lamp failure may occur with existing instant-start LBF installations, recent improvements to lamp designs, backed by stronger manufacturer warranties, should reduce degradation of lamp life in the future. For those applications where lamp replacement is especially costly or undesirable, rapid-start LBF ballasts are preferable, because they cause no reduction in lamp life. LBF ballasts save energy by under driving the lamp and reducing light output and power. Some utilities exclude these ballasts from their incentive programs out of concern that they will be misapplied to create underlit spaces, particularly in cases where the incentive is based on overall reduction in power demand. DSM programs can avoid such problems by requiring that any installation eligible for rebates, including those using LBF ballasts, must meet the lighting levels recommended for that application by the Illuminating Engineering Society.
- OSTI ID:
- 55541
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Compatibility testing of fluorescent lamp and ballast systems
Fluorescent ballast and lamp disposal issues