Alternatives to Fluorescent Lighting in the Office
Hear that hum? Even if you’re not in a room with fluorescent lighting, just seeing the word “fluorescent” has probably filled your mind with the distinct background sound of classrooms, waiting rooms, and similar spaces. Fluorescent lighting has been the go-to lighting option in most offices for decades. However, in recent years, concerns about the health effects of fluorescent lights and their environmental impact have led many office managers to explore alternative lighting options. Today, we’ll discuss some alternatives to fluorescent lighting in the office that you can consider.
LED Lighting
LED, or light-emitting diode, lighting has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its energy efficiency, long lifespan, and lower maintenance costs. LED lights use less energy than fluorescent lights while providing brighter and more even illumination. Unlike the fluorescent tubes of old, LED lights do not contain hazardous materials like mercury vapor. This makes them eco-friendlier options. LED lights are also dimmable, making them ideal for adjusting and creating a pleasant and relaxing work environment, and flat-panel LED lights can boast impressive lifespans.
Natural Lighting
With adequate windows and the right building position, you may hardly need artificial lighting at all. The benefits of relying on sunlight in the workplace are significant, from improving the mood and productivity of workers to reducing energy costs. Office managers can install larger windows or skylights to allow more natural light into the office space. Additionally, light shelves and reflectors can redirect sunlight deep into the office where it wouldn’t reach otherwise. However, cloudy days and obstructed views could leave your office in the dark.
Induction Lighting
Induction cooking is taking stoves by storm. Induction lighting is drawing attention as well. It’s another energy-efficient and low-maintenance alternative to fluorescent lighting in the office. Unlike fluorescent and LED lighting, which require a constant flow of electric current to function, induction lighting can operate without a constant electrical supply. Induction lights use electrodes to produce a magnetic field that excites the gas in the bulb, producing light. Induction lights boast long lifespans, high energy efficiency, and low heat emission, making them safe and eco-friendly.
Halogen Lighting
Halogen lighting is a type of incandescent lighting that uses a tungsten filament in a small quartz envelope. Halogen lights produce a warm, bright light akin to natural daylight that you can dim to create a relaxing ambiance. Halogen lighting is more energy efficient than traditional incandescent lights and has a longer lifespan. However, halogen lights can get hot and require careful handling to avoid burns.
Organic Lighting
Organic lighting is a new lighting Technology that combines nanotechnology with organic materials to create ultra-thin panels that emit light. The extremely energy-efficient panels generate high-quality light that resembles natural sunlight. The panels are also thin and lightweight, making them ideal for use in a variety of applications, including office lighting. Unfortunately, organic lighting is an emerging technology that’s still in the early stages of development. It’s also expensive compared to other lighting options. Nonetheless, keep it in mind for the future—it could create a more pleasant and comfortable work environment for teams.
Originally Published on https://www.breakfastleadership.com/
