Power reducers include a diverse group of products that reduce the active power demand of a fluorescent lighting system. This issue of Specifier Reports focuses on those that reduce the power demand of a fluorescent lighting system by a fixed amount. In this type of power reducer, a reactive current-limiting element is connected in series with the lamp circuit. This electrical element reduces the lamp current, which reduces lamp power. Power reducers also reduce a lamp's light output, although not quite as much as they reduce power demand. Power reducers should only be used in retrofit situations where illuminance is excessive for the visual task being performed. Inappropriate applications include new installations and retrofit situations where existing illuminances are satisfactory or where ballasts or luminaires are being replaced. |