Lighting III: Lamp Families: Incandescent and Low Pressure Discharge

At the heart of lighting performance is the lamp or light source. Lamps are the key determinant in the amount, quality, and distribution of light from a luminaire. Additionally, power consumption, maintenance and lifecycle are lamp characteristics a facility owner will live with long after the initial purchase is made.

In this class, we will learn about the key characteristics of incandescent (including halogen) and low pressure discharge lamps, particularly fluorescent. We’ll learn about the advantages and disadvantages, and the appropriate applications of each lamp family. As we look at fluorescent lamps, we’ll also examine ballast factor and see how ballasts contribute to energy efficiency. Certain lamps can also contribute to an effect called “low power factor”. We’ll look at this briefly and see how it can impact your energy bill.

The course link will take you to the Energy University landing page; if this is your first Energy University course, click “Join” and complete the form. Returning students can “Login” from the landing page. You can search for each course by title.

This course is accredited by: USGBC, BOMI, CIBSE, ACORE, REEP, FIRE, AFE, CPD, IAAT, and FENITEL