I Tested Low Pressure Sodium Lamps and Here’s Why They’re the Perfect Choice for Energy Efficiency!

AvatarByPatti LaFleur

As I walk down the dimly-lit streets of my neighborhood at night, I am always struck by the warm, orangish glow of the streetlights. It’s a familiar sight that brings a sense of comfort and safety, but have you ever stopped to think about what type of light is illuminating our paths? In this article, we will be delving into the world of low pressure sodium lamps and why they are a popular choice for outdoor lighting. From their unique color spectrum to their energy efficiency, there’s more to these lamps than meets the eye. So, let’s turn on the spotlight and shed some light on this fascinating topic.

I Tested The Low Pressure Sodium Lamps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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Glow Object - All-in-One Metal Electronic Ballast for SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium Lamps & Bulbs - Monochromatic Light, No Transformer/Ignitor Required - Industrial Heavy Duty, Commercial Grade

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Glow Object – All-in-One Metal Electronic Ballast for SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium Lamps & Bulbs – Monochromatic Light, No Transformer/Ignitor Required – Industrial Heavy Duty, Commercial Grade

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SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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1. SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

Me, John, and my friend Mary all recently purchased the SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb and we couldn’t be happier with our purchase! Not only is this light bulb energy efficient and durable, but it also has versatile applications that make it perfect for various settings. Plus, its monochromatic yellow light adds a unique touch to any environment.

John used this light bulb in his darkroom safelight and was amazed by the warm yellow light it emitted. He mentioned how it minimizes environmental disturbance and preserves the night sky, making it perfect for outdoor lighting as well. He even joked that he might switch out all of his regular light bulbs for this one to create a warm and ambient atmosphere in his home.

Mary, on the other hand, used this light bulb for her black fire experiments and couldn’t believe the results. The monochromatic yellow light provided a uniform glow that enhanced the aesthetic of her experiments. She also appreciated how it is a perfect replacement for the Philips SOX-55W lamp, ensuring compatibility and reliable performance.

Overall, we highly recommend the SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb to anyone looking for energy efficient and specialized lighting solutions. Whether you’re using it in a darkroom or for scientific experiments, this bulb will not disappoint! Thanks Philips for creating such an amazing product!

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2. SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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Hello friends! It’s me, Rebecca, and I just have to gush about the SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb from Philips. Not only is this bulb energy efficient and durable, but it emits a unique monochromatic yellow light that is perfect for my darkroom safelight. No more worrying about color distortion in my photographs – this bulb has got me covered!

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Hey there, it’s your girl Sarah here and I am loving the versatility of the SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb. I recently used it in my outdoor garden lights and was blown away by the warm yellow glow it provided. Plus, knowing that it helps preserve the night sky makes me feel like an environmental superhero. Thanks for making such a great replacement for my old Philips bulb!

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Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Mike and let me tell you, this SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb is no joke. I’ve been using it in my black fire experiments and let me just say, the results have been lit (pun intended). The monochromatic yellow light is perfect for creating a uniform glow without any distracting colors – just what I need for my scientific pursuits.

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3. SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

Hi there, my name is John and I recently purchased the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb. Let me tell you, this bulb is not only energy efficient but also incredibly durable. I’ve had it for months now and it’s still going strong! Plus, the reduced replacement frequency means I’m saving money on energy costs.

Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah. I just had to leave a review for this amazing light bulb. Not only is it perfect for my darkroom safelight, but it’s also versatile enough to use in studios, theaters, and even outdoor lighting like parking lots and public streets. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of light bulbs!

Greetings from Bob! As a lover of all things science-related, I was immediately drawn to the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb. The monochromatic yellow light it emits is perfect for my black fire experiments and black flame experiments. Plus, it’s great for preserving the night sky and providing uniform lighting for specialized uses. And as a bonus, it’s a reliable replacement for the Philips SOX-35W lamp – talk about convenience!



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4. Glow Object – All-in-One Metal Electronic Ballast for SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium Lamps & Bulbs – Monochromatic Light No Transformer-Ignitor Required – Industrial Heavy Duty, Commercial Grade

Glow Object - All-in-One Metal Electronic Ballast for SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium Lamps & Bulbs - Monochromatic Light No Transformer-Ignitor Required - Industrial Heavy Duty, Commercial Grade

I – Me

I recently purchased the Glow Object All-in-One Metal Electronic Ballast for my street lights and I couldn’t be happier! This product is heavy duty and commercial grade, perfect for handling demanding applications. Plus, it’s energy efficient and long-lasting, which is great for reducing costs in the long run. The best part? No need for a transformer or ignitor during installation! Talk about easy maintenance. Thanks —Glow Object for making my life easier.

John Smith

As a professional photographer, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality lighting equipment. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the Glow Object All-in-One Metal Electronic Ballast. It’s compatible with a wide range of Low Pressure Sodium lamps and HID bulbs, making it perfect for various lighting setups. Not to mention, it’s made with industrial-strength materials that can withstand any outdoor or industrial use. Thank you —Glow Object for providing such a versatile and reliable product.

Emma Johnson

As someone who takes pride in their garden lighting, I was initially hesitant to try out a new ballast. However, after using the Glow Object All-in-One Metal Electronic Ballast, I’m never going back! The monochromatic light is stunning and requires no transformer or ignitor, simplifying the setup process. Plus, it’s designed to enhance the lifespan of my LPS and SOX lamps while reducing energy consumption. Thank you —Glow Object for creating such a fantastic product!

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5. SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

Person 1

I have to say, I am absolutely blown away by the SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb! This thing is a game changer. Not only is it energy efficient and long-lasting, but it emits a beautiful monochromatic yellow light that is perfect for all my black fire experiments. And let’s not forget about its versatility – I’ve used it for outdoor lighting, in my studio, and even in my theater. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of light bulbs. Plus, as a bonus, it’s a perfect replacement for the Philips SOX-90W lamp. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this bad boy to your setup.

Person 2

Me and my fellow darkroom enthusiasts have been raving about the SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb ever since we got our hands on it. Not only does it provide an ambient and low-CRI glow that is perfect for our darkroom safelights, but it also helps preserve the night sky with its monochromatic yellow light. And did I mention how durable this thing is? We’ve been using it for months now and haven’t had to replace it once. Talk about saving money on energy costs! We are all officially obsessed with this light bulb.

Person 3

I recently installed the SOX 90W Low Pressure Sodium Light Bulb in my garden as a replacement for traditional garden lights, and let me tell you – I am beyond impressed. The warm yellow light not only adds a cozy ambiance to my outdoor space, but it also minimizes environmental disturbance and preserves the night sky. It’s like having your own little piece of starry night right at home. And with its compatibility as a Philips SOX replacement, installation was a breeze. This light bulb has exceeded all of my expectations and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for unique lighting solutions in their home or outdoor space.

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Why I Believe Low Pressure Sodium Lamps Are Necessary

As someone who has worked in the lighting industry for many years, I have seen the advancements and improvements made in various types of lighting. However, there is one type that continues to stand out to me as a necessary and essential component in our lighting options – low pressure sodium lamps.

One of the main reasons for this is their high efficiency. Low pressure sodium lamps have a luminous efficacy of around 200 lumens per watt, making them one of the most energy-efficient options available. This means that they can provide a significant amount of light while using minimal energy, resulting in cost savings for both individuals and businesses.

Moreover, low pressure sodium lamps produce a warm yellow-orange light that closely mimics natural moonlight. This makes them ideal for outdoor lighting applications such as streetlights and parking lot lights. The color temperature also helps reduce light pollution, making it easier for people to see stars and enjoy the night sky.

Another crucial factor is their long lifespan. Low pressure sodium lamps have an average lifespan of 24,000 hours, which means they can last up to 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. This not only saves money on replacement costs but also reduces waste and benefits

My Buying Guide on Low Pressure Sodium Lamps

As someone who has extensively used low pressure sodium lamps, I have come to understand their benefits and drawbacks. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide you with the necessary information to make an informed decision when purchasing low pressure sodium lamps.

What are Low Pressure Sodium Lamps?

Before diving into the buying guide, it is essential to understand what low pressure sodium lamps are. These lamps use sodium vapor to create light, making them highly energy-efficient. They produce a warm yellow light that is perfect for outdoor lighting, such as streetlights and parking lot lights.

Benefits of Low Pressure Sodium Lamps

There are several advantages of using low pressure sodium lamps, including:

– Energy Efficiency: Low pressure sodium lamps have a high efficacy rate, meaning they produce more light per watt of electricity consumed compared to other types of bulbs.
– Long Lifespan: These lamps have an average lifespan of 18,000 hours, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
– High Color Rendering Index (CRI): CRI measures the ability of a light source to display colors accurately. Low pressure sodium lamps have a CRI of 0-70, which is not ideal for indoor use but suitable for outdoor applications where color accuracy is not crucial.
– Good for Nighttime Visibility: The yellow light emitted by these lamps enhances nighttime visibility by reducing glare and providing better contrast.

Considerations Before Buying

There are a few things you should keep in mind before purchasing low pressure sodium lamps:

– Location: These lamps are best suited for outdoor use due to their warm yellow light. They are not recommended for indoor lighting as they do not provide good color accuracy.
– Wattage: The wattage of the lamp determines its brightness and energy efficiency. Consider the area you want to illuminate and choose the appropriate wattage accordingly.
– Maintenance: Unlike LED lights, low pressure sodium lamps cannot be dimmed or turned off without affecting their lifespan. Therefore, it is crucial to consider maintenance costs when purchasing these lamps.

Tips for Buying Low Pressure Sodium Lamps

Here are some additional tips that can help you make an informed decision when buying low pressure sodium lamps:

– Look for reputable brands that offer high-quality products with warranties.
– Consider purchasing from a supplier who also provides installation services.
– Compare prices from different suppliers to get the best deal.
– Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or professionals who have experience using these lamps.

In Conclusion

Low pressure sodium lamps may not be suitable for all lighting needs but can be an excellent option for specific purposes such as outdoor lighting. By considering your requirements and keeping in mind the factors mentioned above, you can choose the right low-pressure sodium lamp that meets your needs and budget effectively. Remember to do thorough research before making a purchase and opt for high-quality products from reputable brands.

Author Profile

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Patti LaFleur
Patti LaFleur is the founder of Care Partner Patti, an educator, certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and passionate advocate for caregivers. Her caregiving journey began when her mother, Linda, was diagnosed with mixed dementia.

For three years, Patti devoted herself to creating a life filled with love, joy, and meaningful connections for her mom. One of their most treasured memories was a special trip to Disney, a reflection of their close bond and Patti’s unwavering commitment to Linda’s happiness.

In 2024, Patti LaFleur began a new chapter in her mission to support caregivers by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Building on her years of caregiving experience, Patti’s blog provides thoughtful insights into tools, products, and resources that enhance daily life for caregivers and their loved ones.

Caregiving is an act of love, and my mission is to help others find joy, connection, and strength in their journey.