Efficiency of Low Voltage Halogen Vs. Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Halogen bulbs give off more light than fluorescent bulbs.

As traditional incandescent light bulbs are being replaced by more advanced bulbs, consumers are considering the efficiency of each available type. While some types save more energy, they may have to be replaced more often than others.

Lifetime

Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) have a longer lifetime than halogen bulbs. The average CFL lasts 10,000 hours compared to upwards of 2,500 hours for halogen bulbs. Therefore you will have to purchase about four halogen bulbs for every CFL bulb.

Lumens per Watt

A 75 watt halogen bulb will produce about 1,300 lumens, while a 75 watt CFL will produce about 1,100 lumens. Halogen bases are also designed to reflect more light, making them brighter than their CFL equivalents, which are often placed in older bases.

Cost

A 75 watt low voltage halogen bulb typically costs $3 to $4 per bulb at the least expensive retailers. Most CFL bulbs of equivalent power cost about the same.

References

• Eartheasy: Energy Efficient Lighting
• N Vision: Life of CFLs Compared to Standard Incandescent Light Bulbs
• The Family Handyman: The Pros and Cond of Halogen Bulbs
• Utilities Consumer Advocate: Compact Fluorescent Lamps
• CSN Lighting: Halogen Bulbs, 10V-19V