But why can't you accept working with direct DC voltage CFL's rather than going through all the bother of an inverter?
Here is an extract from a set of notes I am writing about CFL's - perhaps it may be of some use to you.
"Another new discovery in the CFL line - 12 and 24 volt DC voltage CFL's
On Sunday the 31st December 2006 I made a visit to Ap Liu Street in Sham Shui Po, (Hong Kong)to update my knowledge on light bulbs. In one particular shop I was surprised to find that 12 and 24 volt DC compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL's) were on sale. They come in two colours - warm white and cool white - and are priced at HK$80 each and made in China (HK$80 is about US$10.25). The voltage figures of 12 and 24 volts will be of interest to people who are planning to turn their home into a renewable energy palace. The shop staff explained that the Wattage was as follows:-
David HK
Thurmond[ Parent ]
So, although I do have several 12VDC CFLs and also some 12V LED lamps, I still want to be able to use some of my existing 115VAC lamps (and other small devices) off the 12VDC backup power system. Not just in case of a power emergency, but everyday, so as to make some use of the output of my PV panels, which otherwise only top off the already full baterries on most days. But using up the short life of expensive DC CFLs does not seem to be a net gain. That is why it is good to have one or two small inverters that really work. [ Parent ]
At even $10.25 12v DC CFL are costly. Multi pack 120vac CFL less than $2 each.
Most of the time I want a larger CFL than the DC ones come in. Try to find a 23watter? Or 30watts. Single bulbs are more efficient than two smaller.
From what I can find, an inverter powered CFL vs 12v DC CFL are a 1watt apart in efficiency. An inverter/CFL cost less with more options for lights and other loads. When the CFL fails I buy a standard CFL to replace it, not another $10+ hard to find specialty bulb.
Last search the best deal for a 12vcd CFL was $145.95 including shipping. USA
Recently added motion sensing LED lights from HFT for $5, lets me get around without tripping on things.
Have fun, Scott.[ Parent ]
