on 8/19/2007 12:17 PM ** Frank ** said the following:
wrote in message
ups.com...

I have understood that switching fluorescent lamps - tubes - on and
off was not a good idea and that they should be switched on and left
on. Unlike filament lamps which do not seem to mind.


Not good for filament lamps too. In fact, too many switching operations are
not good for most things like computers, motors, TVs, etc. Switching
transients (both switching on and off) could have many thousand volts and
could draw 10x or more rated current across the device which could results
in electrical, mechanical and thermo shock. Note many lamp failures are at
the moment of switching either on or off.

My own experience is CFLs (and Circle Lines) are much more susceptible to
switching than incandescent or the 4' and 8' fluorescent lamps. YMMV.


Yes, MMDV (no, not 2505. My Mileage Did Vary)
I've had the spiral CFL bulbs installed in all of my formerly
incandescent bulb lamps, wherever the lamp took a regular bulb. The
exceptions are mini spots, and decorative candelabra bulbs.
The CFLs in my basement stair lights have been operated for the past 4
years, and at least 4X a day, and more.
The others have been changed over the past couple of years
None have not failed yet. They only take a few seconds to full
brightness, and when first turned on, they are about 80% bright.
They are GE, if that makes a difference.



How do the modern CFLs compare/suffer etc etc?? I know that they can
take a minute or two to warm up and maximise their light output.
If they should be switched on and left on, then they begin to defeat
the very purpose of having energy saving CFLs fitted.








--

Bill
In Hamptonburgh, NY
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