Compact fluorescent or "energy-saving" bulbs offer the same energy efficiency as fluorescent tubes yet are a similar size to incandescent bulbs.

COMPACT FLUORESCENT BULBS

Advantages compared to incandescent bulbs

• Lower energy consumption (- 80%)
• 10 times the lifespan (8000 - 15000 hrs)

Advantages compared to fluorescent tubes

• More compact
• Easy maintenance
• No external holder or ballast (integrated)

Although compact fluorescent bulbs are more expensive, they are becoming more and more widely used by MSF missions. The savings achieved are all the more significant for the fact that MSF pays a very high price per kWh of electricity because of the specific costs related to the use of generators.

Instructions for use

• It takes some time (several tens of seconds) for compact fluorescent bulbs to reach their optimal light intensity, which can be a nuisance when the lamp is used only for short periods (e.g. lighting a corridor or toilet).
• The fluorescent powder and mercury vapour in the tube, while not dangerous in the course of use, mean that used bulbs are dangerous waste items requiring special disposal.

LED

Energy saving bulbs are more and more becoming available in LED versions, be it mainly for the lower wattage models.

ADVISE FOR LOCAL PURCHASE

Caution: bulbs available on local markets are often of poor quality, and you can pay a lot for a bulb that will last no more than a few hours to a few weeks.

To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is therefore strongly recommended that you:

• buy only brands of known quality
• test a small number of bulbs before buying a bigger quantity, since counterfeit bulbs or those of a lower standard intended for local markets are widely sold
• in case of doubt, order compact fluorescent bulbs through the supply centres.

Only the most widespread models are included in the catalogue (E14, E27 and HG 57 type bulbs, from 7 to 23 W). Equivalents exist for other types of socket (bayonet) and in higher wattages.