Compact Fluorescent Lamps and Their Effect on Power Quality and Application Guidelines

The compact florescent lamp (CFL) is becoming an increasingly popular light source for households replacing the commonly used incandescent lamps. CFLs have advantages and disadvantages; among those advantages are cost savings, energy reduction, increased efficacy, and longer life expectancy. Appearance, poor power factor and harmonic impact on distribution systems are some of their disadvantages. This paper discusses the various application issues related to the CFL's.