i understand that there are some blubs that come built in with an electronic ballast as compared to the normal plc ones. these bulbs do not flicker when switched on. however, are they able to fit into the generic downlights, for example the 2X13W ones? what are the pros and cons of using either type of bulbs? thanks.

i understand that there are some blubs that come built in with an electronic ballast as compared to the normal plc ones. these bulbs do not flicker when switched on. however, are they able to fit into the generic downlights, for example the 2X13W ones? what are the pros and cons of using either type of bulbs? thanks.

The bulbs with bulit in electronic ballast are screw based, meaning the bulb socket have to be either E27 or E14. The general downlights have a standard bulb socket meant for compact fluorescent, 2 pin type. So you are unable to convert the standard bulb to the electronic type easily, as you have to take down ALL downlights and change the sockets to a E27 or E14 holder.

The pros of a electronic bulbs is that you do not require a ballast, which in turn saves you the trouble of wiring and/or replacement of the ballast when it is faulty. Electronic lamp always does not flicker, and averagely saves you more energy and last much longer. The cons is that these lamps are 3 to 5 times more expensive than the standard PLC lamp (2pin).