Fluorescent Lighting Recommendations

Where to Use Fluorescents

• Use fluorescent light for general or ambient light, such as overhead tube lights, ceiling or wall-mounted fixtures and chandeliers. Fluorescent lighting also works well for task lighting, such as lamps for reading or sewing.

Where to Avoid Fluorescents

• Fluorescent lights don't dim as well as incandescent lights, so if you need high-quality dimmed light, choose incandescent or halogen lights. Fluorescents also don't work well with timers, especially electronic timers. In addition, don't use fluorescent lights when you need directional light; incandescent or halogen lights work better as directional lights.

Choosing Fluorescents

• Look at the color rendering index (CRI) on the label when choosing fluorescent lights. CRI refers to how effectively and attractively the light portrays objects. Early fluorescent lights had low color rendering, but today's fluorescent lights illuminate objects more attractively. For best results, choose lights with a CRI of 80 or higher.