CFL's in shower trims

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mark32

mark32

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Currently in NJ
Does anyone use CFL's as a way to increase the light output in shower trims? Most shower trims (6") are rated for 40w bulbs, a friend sometimes uses a 60 or 75w cfl when customers complain about there not being enough light. Does anyone else use this approach?
 
mark32 said:
Does anyone else use this approach?
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Yes, I recommend it. I always use a reflector bulb and adjust the socket to bring the bulb as close as I can to the trim lens.

One more thing, leave the CFL on for at least 24 hours the first time you turn it on. It will brighten quicker and last longer.
 
We abandoned using those cheap shower trims that only allow up to a 40w lamp a while ago since there are better choices. Lightolier makes shower trims that can use a PAR30 75W lamp. Plenty of light standing under one of those. Can a CFL be used in an enclosed trim?
 
I use the Juno 5" cans, 50 watt PAR-30 (short neck) bulbs and flat shower trims. Provides great light IMHO.
 
mark32 said:
Does anyone use CFL's as a way to increase the light output in shower trims? Most shower trims (6") are rated for 40w bulbs, a friend sometimes uses a 60 or 75w cfl when customers complain about there not being enough light. Does anyone else use this approach?
Click to expand...

If you use a standard Halo IC can then you are limited to 40 watt. If you use an H7 non insulated can you can use a 60 watt bulb with the right trim.

Also Halo makes a H7UICT that will take a 60 watt bulb in a shower trim. I always use this config. for showers unless I don't need a IC can.
 
Okay, there are some good points being made. I didn't know that cfl's should be left on for 24hrs on their first start up, that should be listed on the packaging, thanks for the tip. Can a cfl not be used in an enclosed fixture/trim? I'd have to research that but at the HD I work almost all of the surface mount fixtures have cfl's in them and they are on around 17hrs a day. I'm unsure what the failure rate is as I don't maintain them. As you might have guessed, I don't sell Lightolier, Juno or Halo's H7UICT's so they are not an option in this scenario. Thanks.
 
I always use 5" cans unless I'm matching existing in the same area. In the past year I have started using CFL's in shower trims and have been pleased w/ the results. I honestly don't know know if the can/ trim combo I use (usually ELCO) is rated for a CFL but I am comfortable w/ the installation. They burn cooler and in case of catastrophic failure (not likely), it is an enclosed fixture so no raining glass on the shower goer.
 
mark32 said:
Does anyone use CFL's as a way to increase the light output in shower trims? Most shower trims (6") are rated for 40w bulbs, a friend sometimes uses a 60 or 75w cfl when customers complain about there not being enough light. Does anyone else use this approach?
Click to expand...

I find that when enclosed with the base up the lamp life is shortened with a CFL. I have found a few with a discolored base (after many hours of use) that looks almost browned due to heat.
Not sure I'm comfortable with it unless manufacturer list a CFL as an acceptacle lamp option.
 
I believe the 4" halos will accept the normal 45W lamp as well as a shower trimmed house.

note the 45W as they no longer make the 50W.
 
mark32 said:
Does anyone use CFL's as a way to increase the light output in shower trims? Most shower trims (6") are rated for 40w bulbs, a friend sometimes uses a 60 or 75w cfl when customers complain about there not being enough light. Does anyone else use this approach?
Click to expand...

Do it in my own home the 2 4" halo cans max at 50 watts i have a 13 watt cfl in each which i think is comparable to a 60 watt, just takes about 20 seconds for them to brighten up. The restrictions in the cans are used for heat not current so I would like to check the temp of the 13 watt cfl when running compared with the 50 watts, has anyone done this?
 
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