What Is Difference Between Halogen & Fluorescent Bulb?

Fluorescent lighting works quite well in large spaces.

There has never been a greater variety of light bulbs for everyday use than there are today. Two of these types are halogen and fluorescent bulbs. Each uses a different method to produce light and has its own particular advantages.

Halogen Bulb Basics

Halogen bulbs use a gas from the halogen group of elements, typically bromine or iodine. Halogen bulbs operate at much higher temperatures than fluorescent bulbs.

Halogen Bulb Uses

Halogen bulbs should be used where a discrete, focused, pure white light source is desired. Halogen is also a good choice where excellent color reproduction is needed.

Fluorescent Bulb Basics

The inside of a fluorescent light bulb is coated with phosphor. Mercury vapor encased in the linear fluorescent tube gives off ultraviolet (UV) energy when an electric current is run through the tube. The phospor coating transforms the UV light into visible light.

Fluorescent Bulb Uses

Fluorescents are best where diffused light is wanted. They work especially well in large spaces such as offices and stores.

Energy Efficiency

Fluorescent bulbs are more energy efficient than halogen bulbs.

References

• Underwriter Laboratories
• US Department of Energy Offoce of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy