Incandescent Alternatives F.A.Q.:-
taken from www.environment.gov.au

Contents:-

1. What are the alternatives to inefficient incandescent light bulbs?
2. Will special purpose bulbs be affected?
3. Do compact fluorescent lamps (CFL's) work with dimmer switches?
4. Can compact fluorescent lamps be used with movement sensors, sunset swithces and timers?
5. Can compact fluorescent lamps be used in touch lamps?
6. Can compact fluorescent lamps be used in recessed downlights?
7. Are light emitting diodes (LED's) also energy efficient?

What are the alternatives to inefficient incandescent light bulbs?:

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and halogen bulbs can be used in the vast majority of fittings that take common incandescent bulbs. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are the more energy efficient option, however both are readily available on the market.

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) use the same technology as linear fluorescent tubes - common in our schools, hospitals and workplaces - but are designed for use in homes. Not only do compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) only use around 20 per cent of the energy to produce the same amount of light as an incandescent light bulb, but they last between four and 10 times longer.

Globe conversion table

This globe conversion table is designed to assist you in your selection of a more energy efficient lighting alternative that best suits your lighting requirements.

Will special purpose bulbs be affected?:

Initially only traditional pear-shaped general purpose light bulbs will be phased out. Specialty bulbs such as oven lights, bathroom heat lamps, and medical lights will not be affected until viable, cost effective, and efficient alternatives are available.

The phase-out will mean that once the measure is implemented, people will be unable to buy new inefficient incandescent bulbs to replace their old ones. However, people will not be required to remove working incandescent bulbs.

There are different types of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) to suit most common applications in the home, and new compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are being developed to suit some less common applications.

For more information on specialty lighting products, please contact the manufacturer. They can help you find the right lighting products to suit your needs - be sure to ask them about their energy efficient lighting product range.

Do compact fluorescent lamps work with dimmer switches?:

Some compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are not compatible with all existing dimming circuits. It is recommended that you refer to product packaging at the time of purchase, or alternatively contact the manufacturer for product specific information. However, more dimmable compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are expected to become available as the phase-out progresses.

Mains voltage halogen bulbs provide a more efficient dimmable alternative to common incandescent bulbs and are readily available in the market place.

Can CFL's be used with movement sensors, sunset switches and timers?:

Currently, some compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will not work in all existing lighting systems including, movement sensors and other switches.

It is recommended that you refer to product packaging at the time of purchase, or alternatively contact the manufacturer for product specific information.

Mains voltage halogen bulbs provide a more efficient alternative to traditional incandescent bulbs in situations where compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are not the preferred option. However, more CFL products suitable for use in these technologies will continue to become available as the phase-out progresses.

Can CFL's be used in touch lamps?:

Currently, some compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will not work in existing touch lamps. It is recommended that you refer to product packaging at the time of purchase, or alternatively contact the manufacturer for product specific information.

Mains voltage halogen bulbs provide a more efficient alternative to common incandescent light bulbs. However, more CFL products suitable for use in touch lamps will continue to become available as the phase-out progresses.

Can CFL's be used in recessed downlights?:

Some CFLs are designed to be used in recessed downlight fittings. However, those that are not, can be exposed to excess heat which may lead to premature CFL failure. Manufacturers' packaging and instructions should be carefully consulted.

Are light emitting diodes (LED's) also energy efficient?:

LEDs are another potentially efficient alternative to traditional pear-shaped incandescent bulbs, however LEDs for general lighting purposes are a new technology that is still being developed.

LEDs are part of a family of 'solid state' electronic components that only allow electricity to flow in one direction. They have the distinctive side effect of creating light when current is passed through them.

LEDs are currently used in countless applications including lighting displays in household appliances, mobile phone screens and traffic signals. Many lighting companies are developing LED bulbs for direct replacement into a range of fittings - some are already available, while many more are expected to be available in the next few years.

The benefits of LEDs include lifetimes of up to 100,000 hours and potentially very high efficiency levels. While some general lighting LEDs have issues with poor light quality and low light output, they are rapidly improving. The main barrier for the widespread adoption of LEDs is cost, but as the technology improves and demand increases, costs will come down.

LEDs have the most immediate potential in applications where the long life and hence very low replacement and maintenance schedules is of most benefit, and also helps to offset the high initial capital cost, for example in car parks and other public areas where lighting is required.

Reference:
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. (2008). Frequently Asked Questions. Phase-out of Inefficient Light Bulbs.  Retrieved 12 May 2009 from http://www.environment.gov.au/settlements/energyefficiency/lighting/faq-alternatives.html