scope:

Introduction

Switching off fluorescent lamps whenever a room is unoccupied saves energy. Energy codes mandate automatic shutoff of non-residential buildings. Occupancy sensors mandated switching off lighting when leaving a room, and automated building systems save energy by removing lighting load when not being used. Frequent switching of lamps, however, may shorten their operating life. It is the intent of this paper to give some guidance in the selection of ballast type as a function of lamp switching rate to achieve the desired energy savings while maintaining acceptable lamp life.