Difference Between Fluorescent & Incandescent Lights

An incandescent bulb produces more heat than a fluorescent one.

Fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs both provide illumination, but with significant differences in cost, energy usage and operation. According to Eartheasy.com, compact fluorescent bulbs can last 10 times as long as incandescents, and offer four times greater energy efficiency.

How They Work

Fluorescent bulbs produce light when an electric current flows between electrodes and reacts with a fill gas. An incandescent bulb produces light when its tungsten filament is heated to high temperatures.

Output

A lightbulb's light output is measured in lumens. A fluorescent bulb can produce up to 100 lumens per watt of power, while incandescent bulbs produce about 15 lumens per watt.

Costs

A fluorescent light bulb can cost more than $5, while an incandescent bulb can may cost 65 cents or less.

Fill Gas

Both types of light bulbs feature fill gases to make them operate properly or more efficiently. Fluorescent bulbs typically contain mercury and argon, while incandescent bulbs can contain halogen.

Efficiency

Fluorescent lightbulbs are much more efficient than incandescent lights. Much of the energy used to power an incandescent bulb is wasted by producing heat. Fluorescent bulbs burn much cooler.

Disposal

Incandescent bulbs that have burned out can be thrown in the garbage. Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, so they must be properly recycled.

References

• Other Power: Efficient Lighting
• The Great Internet Light Bulb Book: Incandescent Including Halogen Light Bulbs
• Buildings: Fluorescent Lamps 101
• Earth Easy: Energy Efficient Lighting
• U.S. Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station: Typical Lumen Outputs and Energy Costs for Lighting