Frequently Asked Questions

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What's the difference between a compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) and a fluorescent tube?

The main difference is their size. CFL are made to fit in standard household light sockets (eg. table lamps). Additionaly, most compact fluorescent lamps have an "integral" ballast that is built into the light bulb, whereas most fluorescent tubes require a separate ballast. Both types are energy efficient lights.

How much UV should a fullspectrum lamp contain?

Just enough to support the positive effects UV light has (like vitamin D production). A too much of UV could be harmful. Viva-Lite fullspectrum lamps contain a desireable amount of UV, the exact number is corporate secret.

How can I save energy with my general lighting?

This is simpler than you might think. Switch all light sources off when they are not in use. It is correct that energy saving lamps work best when they are not switched on and off all the time but leaving them on for no reason is not what is meant by this statement either! Fewer watts means less energy consumption. Nevertheless, it is more energy efficient to use one strong bulb instead of many weaker ones. Use indirect lighting sparingly. Arrange work places with as much daylight as possible.

What light bases of Viva-Lite are available?

For an up-to-date overview of the complete Viva-Lite® product range
Please see  Product Range & Comparison.

Why do I suffer from headaches from some fluorescent lamps?

That's a good question. The reason for headaches under some fluorescent lamps may be due to an older version of ballast used which creates a stronger electromagnetic field and also causes flickering in the range of 50Hz that may be very disturbing to our minds and bodies.

Can Viva-Lite be used to grow plants indoors?

Yes they can, and we have personally seen very good results with Tulsi and Orchids, amongst others. It is worth noting that every plant absorbs a frequency lengths (bandwidth) of the light spectrum. For some A-C and H-K is important, for others L-O and X-Z. So depending on the plant, the light spectrum requirements are different.

What lumen level should a full-spectrum light-bulb have?

A lumen is the measure of brightness and a good quality light is often thought to be around 3000-3500. However, full-spectrum bulbs have a mix of other qualities that means a lower lumen level still delivers more "light". Our speciality is that we deliver lamps with 5500 K (temperature) and 96+ CRI (colour rendering index). Typically lamps with 70-80 CRI would have the 3000+ Lumen but lamps between 91 and 95 CRI have 30% less lumen and lamps (such as Viva-Lite) with 96 CRI+ require 40% less lumen.

What is the right colour temperature for my bulbs?

Viva-Lite has CRI (colour rendering index) of 96 and color temperature of 5500 K . Normal CFLs have CRI and color temperature as follows: - CRI normally between 69 (min) and 84 (max) , mostly around 76 - there are 2 or 3 distinctive types for color temperature commonly used: 2700 (very warm color like incandescent light) 4000 (warm fluorescent tubes, very bad) 6500 (cold fluorescent tubes, better, but too cold) 5500 is the middle that is color "neutral" which is why it is the standard in international photography.