Electrical Info Requested.?

Question

I am considering updating a light fitting to make use of 3 seven watt fluorescent type bulbs ( energy saving ) rather than using 3 fithty watt filament bulbs. I have an electronic dimmer fitted. The advantage is that on full brightness the operating cost is less. Do I have to install anything else for this to work. Please do let me know. Thankyou. Gaz

Answer 1

You need the right type of dimmer to work with fluorescent bulbs.  Dimmed, they flicker like mad.  And remember, fluorescent bulbs take about 5 minutes to come to full brightness.

Answer 2

You need to make sure that the bulbs that you buy are dimmable. Most fluorescent bulbs are not. Also if you do get dimmable fluorescent bulbs they will only be able to dime down to 20% or 30% brightness not all the way like incandescent bulbs. In the end that is only a small price to pay when you are saving that much power.