What's new
Car Wash Forum

This is a sample guest message. Register a free account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members through your own private inbox!

How will these CFL bulbs measure up?

I.B. Washincars

Car Washer Emeritus
I have some 400W MH lights that I am considering converting to CFLs. The problem is that they are on poles 25' in the air. I will have to hire a bucket truck to swap them so I would like to have some idea if I will be pleased with the results. I have found three at 1000 bulbs that seem like they may cut the mustard, but would like the opinions from people smarter than me. How do you think any of these do?

https://1000bulbs.com/product/1573/FC200-FEIIB200W.html

https://1000bulbs.com/product/71818/FC180-S50.html

https://1000bulbs.com/product/8375/FC200-35871.html
 
I'd go with the Global - the EnergyMiser brand has the lowest light output (both in overall lumens and light per watt) and the shortest expected life. The Global unit has nearly the same lumens as the Maxlite for 20 less watts, and is a lot less expensive up front.
 
At one wash we have a pair of 1000w MH lights on a 25' pole and it gives great light. I have a 400w MH in another wash and it does OK. Phillips shows the lumens at 39000 on a 400w MH bulb. The CFL at 61 lumens per watt only gives you 10980 lumens, so not real bright. I got the impression that the global CFL was a grow light intended for the Home horticulturist or 4:20
crowd.
 
I'd go with the Global - the EnergyMiser brand has the lowest light output (both in overall lumens and light per watt) and the shortest expected life. The Global unit has nearly the same lumens as the Maxlite for 20 less watts, and is a lot less expensive up front.

How do you think it will compare to the 400W MH?
 
I.B. Washincars said:
How do you think it will compare to the 400W MH?
If you're expecting comparable light output to a 400W metal halide, I'm sure you'll be disappointed.
 
I.B. I started this thread about 2 years ago. Check it out.

http://forum.autocareforum.com/showthread.php?t=6668

I posted some pics of my bays in that thread. Some with 175w Metal Halides side by side with 85w CFL Full Spectrum Bulbs. There is a huge difference. The 85w CFLs were much brighter and a lot whiter. I don't know if you'll get the same results with your pole lights, but I can't see why it won't be compareable. You could try one to compare to the others, thats what I did....I'm going on 2 years and haven't had a single failure. Let alone the amount of money I've saved by doing the conversion.
 
Back
Top