Circular Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Circular fluorescent light bulbs, which can be considered a part of the Compact Fluorescent Tube, CFT, family has been in existence since approximately 1976 when the spiral CFT was invented. The circular fluorescent light bulb is also a part of the non-integrated power source lamp or bulb. It is a bi-pin tube which contains an integrated starter which thereby obviates the need for external pins for heating. This does however create some compatibility issues with electronic ballasts.

CFT and CFL Lifetime

The life of a CFL is rated between 8 and 15 times that a regular light bulb or incandescent bulb. Although there are many factors that determine the lifetime of a bulb, such as operating voltage, voltage spikes and other factors it is usually considered a longer operating bulb then it's counter part. One thing that dramatically reduces the lifetime of the CFT is turning the bulb of and on frequently. It is possible to reduce the operating life of the CFT by 70 to 85% by cycling the bulb in shorter durations. It is suggested that the bulb be left on for at least 15 minutes to halt this degradation. Although the initial cost of the CFT is greater, over a 5 year period, it is estimated that there would be an approximate savings of 12 to 15% in utility expenditures.