Frequently Asked Questions

What is induction lighting?

Induction lighting is fluorescent based technology that operates without the use of an electrode. Energy is transferred to the lamp by an inductively coupled high frequency magnetic field which reacts with phosphors to create illumination. The absence of an electrode eliminates the common failure point found in most lamps, therefore providing an extremely long lasting light source. 

What is the rated life of induction lighting? 

Induction lamps and ballasts are rated at 100,000 hours. Five times the rated life of traditional light sources.

Is induction lighting energy efficient?

Yes, electronic induction ballasts operate at a high frequency rate for improved performance and a higher level of efficiency. Full spectrum, high kelvin induction lamps contain high grade phoshors to increase color rendering (CRI). Compared to traditional light sources, induction lamp and ballast systems provide better quality, highly visible white light for superior illumination with reduced wattage. For comparisons on HID replacement, please review our Induction to HID Conversion Chart

Other benefits of induction lighting include:

• Extremely Long Life - 100,000 Hours, up to 5 times the rated life of other lamps on the market. 

• Highly Sustainable- Dramatic reductions in re-lamp cycles and scheduled maintenance. 

• Energy Efficiency - On average of 33% to 67% energy savings over HID. 

• Better Quality Light - High color rendering (80+ CRI) provides crisp white full spectrum light. 

• Instant Restrike - No warm up period. May also be controlled with a photo or motion sensor. 

• Lumen Maintenance - Better light output over the life of the system....no color shift or extreme degradation.

• High Efficacy - A higher level of light output per watt emitting from the fixture. 

• Cold Temperature Performance - 100 and 150w systems operate down to -40*F. 

• Green Technology- Energy savings  plus long life equate to less mercury released into the environment.

Which brand of induction is used in 1st Source Lighting Fixtures? 

1st Source Lighting proudly offers the Sylvania Icetron lamp and ballast system in our induction ligh fixtures. Superior in quality with proven performance over import induction brands, the Icetron induction line of products has consistently shown to meet or exceed rated life in many successful applications. Quality engineering with a higher grade phosphor ensures high lumen maintenance. Click here for the Sylvania Icetron Product Bulletin. 

American made 1st Source Lighting induction fixtures equipped with Sylvania Icetron lamps and ballasts qualify for projects funded or partially funded by ARRA money. A utilized Sylvania NAFTA made lamp and ballast prevents back order issues associated with overseas import delays. All 1st Source Lighting induction fixtures are are backed by Sylvania's Quick 60 5-Year Warranty. 

Please visit our warranty page for complete details.

High Output Linear Fluorescent FAQs

For information on T5 high output and T8 linear technology, please review the following links:

• Fluorescents: Photopic vs. Scotopic (PDF)

• Are high output fluorescents more energy efficient than HID? (PDF)

• Do high output flourescents perform better than HID? (PDF)

• T8 or T5 HO? What is fixture efficiency? (PDF)

• Is it true T5 HO ballasts suffer from heat issues? (PDF)