Lighting for any space can be in a variety of forms. Fluorescent lighting is a type of lighting that is known for its energy-saving tendencies. It depends on a chemical reaction between gases and Mercury vapor within a glass tube to produce an invisible UV light, illuminating phosphor power to emit or have the White fluorescent lights that we see.

Developed by scientists way back in 1934, the fluorescent lighting system has seen its share of praises and critics like almost everything produced for human use. Some people think that fluorescent lights are usually low maintenance and highly environmentally friendly than traditional light bulbs, while others believe that fluorescents are hazardous and cost more.

For a clearer weigh-in of the situation, a list of upsides and downsides to fluorescent lighting has been compiled in this article.

Cons / Disadvantages of Fluorescent Lighting

1. Color shifting and frequent switching: When the chemicals in the glass tube of a fluorescent lamp shift over time due to usage, there is usually a shift from the standard white lights to sometimes orange or dimmer light. Also, frequent switching on and off of the fluorescent lamp can shorten the lifespan.
2. Hazardous waste and recycling costs: Because fluorescents contain Mercury and phosphorus, which are dangerous to the health of humans when inhaled or ingested, it is essential that used or expired lamps be disposed of appropriately through recycling which will, of course, lead to extra costs.
3. Warm-up period and harsh light: For older fluorescent lamps, you might experience a 10-30 second delay before illumination whenever they are turned on. Another thing is intense light which is terrible for people with photosensitivity due to the UV lighting which the fluorescent uses to produce light.
4. Cost of fixture: Initially, ballasts are used to regulate current when installing fluorescent lamps overheads in large spaces. It can be pretty expensive; therefore, installing fluorescent lights in offices or hospitals may cost a lot more at the beginning.

Pros / Advantages of Fluorescent Lighting

1. Energy efficiency: One primary reason fluorescent lamps are popular is that they do not produce much heat when used, which is not familiar with incandescent light bulbs. They save between 25 and 60% of energy as opposed to traditional bulbs.
2. Cost-saving: Replacing traditional bulbs with fluorescents would reflect on your bank balance at the end of the month in a good way. It is because your energy bill will not be stacked up as much as it would if you had been using traditional bulbs.
3. Long-lasting light life: Most fluorescent lamps would last between 10,000 and 50,000 hours. It is a long time to compare it to traditional light bowls, which might last between 800 and 1,500 hours. Essentially it means that you will not have to change light bulbs frequently, and you can also use fluorescent lamps in places that are high up without having to worry about going up a ladder to change them now and then.