Re: [VACList] Amps

[Matt Worner <wornmatt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Kathy,

They kinda sorta don't.  More watts = more candle power as long as you are
comparing the same type of lamp.  Fluorescent and incandescent lamps ain't the
same, however, so the comparison becomes more esoteric.

Basically, fluorescents give off about 5-7 candlepower per watt.
Incandescents are good for about 1 or less cp/w.  Ignoring such things as
color values, directionality of the light, etc., fluorescents give more "bang
for the buck" in the wattage department.

The most efficient users of battery power are light emitting diodes.  The
white ones are VERY white, shifting into blue.  Some may find the color too
uncomfortable to live with.  Replacement lamps are made for 12 volt
applications but they cost around $35 per lamp.  Start replacing them 6 at a
time (that's what the fixtures in my Sovereign take) and see how much money
you have left for corn flakes.  Talk about LEAN cuisine, we're talking
starvation here!

All told, if you can live with the color, fluorescents will give longest
battery life at reasonable cost.

Matt