Compact Florescent Bulb Question?

Question

I have a lamp next to my computer and I bought a Philips a19 shape 9 watt, 40 equivalent. I was just wondering if any manufacturer makes a bulb that comes on instantly that is 40 watt equivalent that doesn't take a minute to fully light. I still like the compact florescent bulbs better because it doesn't heat up the room like my incandescents did, just want one that lights faster, but one that is also not too bright.

Answer 1

If you are talking about those compact florescent lights that are shaped like the old regular bulbs, then yes, those take longer to warm up than the spiral ones. Try the 60 watt equivalent one in the a19 shape but try the GE one and if you still don't like that one, then get the spiral style. I agree with you about the heat from the incandescents, I used to sweat using the computer, but since I switched to a 13 watt cfl, the room is much more comfortable, and doesn't feel like I am getting a sunburn at the PC. I believe they are banning the incandesent bulbs in the US in 2012, so I bet they will start making improvements in the warm up times with our cfls, that way the old grumps don't gripe when they are forced to buy them.

Answer 2

I'm sure that eventually they will be able to decrease the warmup time on cfl's. they still have the same properties and basic design of a standard fluorescent light, including the ballast, phospur, and mercury vapor, which is why they have warning labels regarding the disposal.

the "warmup time" is due to the ballast, which regualtes the required voltage. because of this, you also cannot place a regular fluorescent light. however, they do make special cfl's that can be used with dimmers but they normally run twice the cost.

Answer 3

Some brands seem to light up faster then others, some seem to take forever to reach full brightness.

Answer 4

I think GE is the best.  Walmart GV brand is also good.