Light bulbs are made to last a fairly long time. So, replacing them every month is not normal. Besides being frustrating and expensive, this is a clue that you have a deeper issue.
Heat, the Silent Bulb Killer
Heat wrecks bulbs. When they get too hot, they burn out. This is especially true for enclosed fixtures that trap heat because there is no airflow. Bulbs that have a brown appearance or yellowing on the plastic lens have been damaged by the heat. If you have enclosed fixtures, make sure you choose bulbs that are labeled for this purpose. Also, check that the wattage is not too high, or you risk cooking the bulb, fixture, and socket, which can lead to an electrical fire.
Voltage Spikes and Fluctuations
Sudden spikes in voltage can also shorten the lifespan of bulbs because they fry the electronics in CFL and LED bulbs and wear out filaments. This can happen if the voltage in your home is unstable. You will know this is the case if the lights get brighter whenever you turn on appliances or devices, or they flicker for no apparent reason. Have an electrician check the circuit and tighten the connections. They may recommend a surge protector to protect appliances and devices from these spikes.
Wrong Bulb for the Job
Avoid using LEDs with old dimmers because they are incompatible. Bulbs burn out fast. Use only bulbs that are compatible with the dimmers you have. You may need to install new dimmers if yours are too old.
The location where you are using the bulbs is also critical. If you need to install bulbs in a ceiling fan or above a garage door, choose those that are rated to withstand vibration because they will endure constant jostling.
Loose or Corroded Sockets
A worn or corroded socket will cause bulbs to be wobbly or not thread smoothly. Because of the poor connection, arcing results, and this can burn the bulb. Failing to address this issue can lead to electrical fires. Sometimes you’ll see black marks, smell a faint scorch odor, or hear a faint sizzle when you turn on the light. If you notice any of these, shut the light off straight away. You may need to replace the lamp.
If the fixture is hardwired into your home, shut the power off at the breaker and call an electrician for help. They can replace the defective fixture and make sure all components, including the bulb, fit snugly.
So, if you are replacing bulbs too often, do not just ignore the problem and hope that it will correct itself. Get expert help, especially for problems that concern hardwired fixtures. For expert help with lighting in your Delray Beach, FL home, reach out to Assurance Power Systems, and we will resolve the problem and ensure your safety.
