Roy: Fluorescent lights are a more efficient technology than incandescents (about four times the light output of an incandescent for the same wattage. In other words, you can get the same light output for one fourth the wattage. Very nice, indeed, when you are drawing power from your battery. A fluorescent lamp has greater longevity as well. I assume the light you are looking at is a 12 volt lamp. The color of the light emitted from fluorescence has generally been in the blue color range, which is disconcerting to some peoples eyes. Many of the newer compact fluorescence have a warmer (i.e., red coloration) and give a very nice color rendition. Fluorescence do not have a filament like an incandescent, so they aren't as susceptible to damage from vibration or impact. A fluorescent does operate with a "ballast" that if magnetic can create an audible buzzing sound. Newer electronic ballast fluorescence do not buzz. Take a look at the wattage on the light you're interested in. If it is above 12 watts it may be too bright for your conditions. (I have a 12W fluorescent outdoor light above my garage door and it easily lights all of the driveway.) I'm sure you'll do a test run before you install the lamp permanently, right? Well, hope this general discussion is of assistance. - - George Chapman, 91 GL Lake Almanor, CA |
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