[LINK] Here's one that will snag a few

[Ivan Trundle]

There seems to be a wealth of knowledge in Link about fluorescent  
lights.

If this is so, can anyone point me to a non-incandescent screw- 
fitting (ES) light that can replace standard 100W reflector lights  
(E27 cap, R63 + R80 diameters) which transmit enough lumens to light  
an average kitchen from a ceiling height of around 4 metres?

To date, I've tried more than 5 different types of replacement fluoro  
bulb (all rated at 18W or higher), and none offer anywhere near  
enough light. Consequently, I've got quite a stockpile of unused dull  
fluoroscents, both tubular and compact. However, each of these  
flouros lights up the ceiling very well - the light just doesn't  
reach the bench tops.

I've heard that there are reflector fluoros available in the US, but  
I've not seen any here. Something in the 23W range would suffice. Any  
ideas?

By the way, older fluoros generally have the cheaper magnetic  
ballasts (which produce flickering). Electronic ballasts are more  
expensive, but are much more efficient and start quicker, with less  
flickering, and a longer life. Newer ballasts also permit dimming.  
And also worthy of note, all lamps reduce their efficiency over time:  
this is a significant problem for flouros, since a one watt drop in  
efficiency can make a marked impact on light, and of course since  
they last longer, will 'fade' more.

If you want some real data on the overall costs of lighting (and  
everything else in a domestic environment), visit http:// 
www.greenhouse.gov.au/yourhome/ (the site is still operational).

Warmly

iT