Ask A Scientist© Engineering Archive

Index Key:   ENG027
Author:      williamh
Subject:     Is it more efficient to turn off fluorescent ...
Text:        Is it more efficient to leave fluorescent lights on or to turn 
them off for a short period of time?

Response #:  1 of 1
Author:      dipper
Text:        It is always better to turn off any light if you do not need 
them.  However, I think what you want to know is -- is it better to turn off a 
fluorescent light when leaving a room for only a short time?  The answer is 
dependant upon several factors, but generally, for  most household 
applications, it is better to leave the fluorescent lights on if they will be 
off for a period of 3 minutes or less.  The surge current to start the lamp is 
higher than the maintaining current to keep the lamp running.