Modification of Fluorescent Luminaires for Energy Conservation

Publication Title: Modification of Fluorescent Luminaires for Energy Conservation

Government Author: Commerce Department, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) .

Abstract: Reducing energy consumption in existing buildings by reducing the number of lamps presents technical problems when more than one fluorescent lamp operates from a single ballast. A preliminary investigation was made whereby capacitors were substituted for one fluorescent lamp in a two-lamp luminaire which operated with a single ballast. Under optimum conditions, lighting efficiency (foot-candles per watt) was nearly as high at reduced power input as it was with two lamps operating normally. No failures in lighting equipment or capacitors occurred and no fire hazards, other safety hazards or other unsatisfactory occurrences were observed. A more thorough investigation involving a number of parameters is needed to ascertain the feasibility of this modification.