Nine Problems with Fluorescent Backlighting

Fluorescent tubes were patented in 1901. They are essentially last century’s lighting technology.

Things have moved on:

• Fluorescent tube systems waste energy
  Only 7 - 10% of the energy input is turned into light.
• They create hazardous waste
  Hazardous to manufacture and expensive to dispose of. They release mercury gas vapor into the environment.
• They demand costly, regular maintenance
  They fail suddenly and unpredictably. Forcing annual replacement – further waste and cost.
• They generate heat
  That is often removed with air conditioning (more cost and carbon).
• They lose efficiency if turned off and on
  Forcing 24/7 use even if not required
• The illumination is uneven
  Causing striping, hot-spots and dark zones.
• They are prone to hum and flicker
• They’re inherently fragile
• They’re hard to start in cold environments (<10ºC)

In short, fluorescent backlighting is unsustainable – environmentally, operationally and financially.

One day, no advertising will be backlit with tubes. We’re here to make that day arrive sooner.