I have a floor stand lamp, got it about 6 years ago at JAF with a coupon. I've never had to replace a bulb but the ballast went out and I had to call Ott to order a replacement. The ballast was about $20 plus shipping. I do use it behind my machine, the light is really good. We also have a smaller table model Ott, it is great to move around with the folding sewing table. But in my new sewing room, I set up a cutting table inside the walk-in closet. The overhead was not enough and I got a cheap clamp-on trouble light to clip to the shelf above. I got a full-spectrum CFL bulb and it is Amazing! I won't pay the price of an Ott lamp again.