Initial Research
In 2002, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) completed technical and market research on Reflector CFLs (R-CFL) and identified a number of challenges to increased use of R-CFLs installed in insulated ceiling rated airtight (ICAT) housings:
- Mean overall length (MOL). Few R-CFLs fit in recessed can fixtures designed for incandescent R-lamps when the program started, although several smaller models are now available.
- Delivered light output. Total light output for R-CFLs was often significantly less than their incandescent counterparts, and R-CFLs installed in high ambient temperature environments generally produced lower light levels compared to CFLs installed in "open" fixtures at room temperature. This continues to be a challenge.
- Beam angle.(1) The beam angle of R-CFLs was generally much wider than that of incandescent R-lamps, and significant amounts of light could be lost in the recessed can fixture. The only category where R-CFLs compare to the beam angle of incandescent R-lamps is the very wide flood category, and R-CFLs should not be considered for spotlight applications.
- ENERGYSTAR compliance. Very few R-CFLs were ENERGYSTAR compliant at the start of this program.
- Longevity. Operating life was often much shorter than the manufacturer rated life when installed in insulated ceiling environments. This continues to be a challenge.
- Availability and affordability. Prices for R-CFLs, when you could find them, were high and often upwards of $15 per lamp. Prices have since come down, but first cost remains an impediment to increased market penetration.
- Operating temperature was often above manufacturer guidelines when operated in an ICAT can. Operating temperature of R-CFLs tested by PNNL were often above the manufacturer's maximum operating temperature when used in an ICAT can.
(1) The total angular spread of light cone intercepting the 50%-of-maximum intensity.