Are your lightbulbs burning out too fast? They say the light that burns twice as bright burns half as long – but with light bulbs, there is often an electrical solution!
The main causes of light bulb burn-out are too high of voltage, a loose connection, excessive movement or you may simply be using the wrong type of lightbulb!
But What is Normal?
Depending on your bulb, lights should last between 3,000 and 25,000 hours! So if you have a light bulb that burns out every week (or even every month!) you likely have a problem. Here are some potential causes and what.
Voltage Woes
The average, standard electrical outlet is 120-volts. Voltage fluctuations can greatly affect the life of your light bulbs. This includes surges from the utility or from internal equipment on your electrical service and many other sources. If you find that your light bulbs are changing brightness this may be the culprit.
Missed Connections
If this is your issue, you may notice flickering. Make sure your light bulb is screwed in just right, not too loose or too tight. Just twist it a bit and you’re good to go!
Excessive Movement
Now most of the time – you want your light bulb to stay put. But if it’s attached to a ceiling fan or garage door, you may not be able to help the sway, which can cause the filaments to break leading to burn-out. This is a harder problem to fix as it may be due to the lighting fixture or the larger appliance it’s attached to. If you think this might the problem, give our experts a call at (301) 871-0477 (Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC), or (727) 422-0391 (Florida).
Choosing the Right Bulb
Often, lamps and other fixtures have an ideal wattage. So if you are using a higher wattage then your fixture can handle, this can also lead to burn-out. You’ll have to buy the appropriate bulb that matches your appliance.
If none of the above causes sound like your issue – you may want to call in an expert! Give our experts at M.R. Electricians a call at (301) 871-0477 (Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC), or (727) 422-0391 (Florida) and let us do the electrical work for you!
