So, your light bulbs keep burning out—what’s the deal? The lifespan of a CFL bulb typically ranges anywhere between 6,000 to 15,000 hours, while a standard incandescent bulb has a general lifespan of 750 to 2,000 hours. With that in mind, if you find light bulbs keep burning out at a much faster rate, there may be other factors at play. Here are a few reasons your light bulbs keep burning out sooner than later.
#1: Screwing the bulbs too tight
You don’t want a bulb to be loose in a fixture, but if you’re screwing it in too tight, you could be razing the small brass tab in the fixture which can lead to electrical arcing.
#2: Vibration
Vibration can also be a cause of blown bulbs. Constant motion or vibration can damage the components of bulbs over time. Light fixtures in ceiling fans are notorious for shortening the life span of bulbs—fortunately, there are vibration-resistant options you can purchase if the light bulbs keep burning out in your ceiling fans.
#3: Bulbs Are Getting Too Hot
If you’ve ever touched a light bulb when it’s on (we definitely don’t recommend it), you know how hot the glass can get. Bulbs are designed to handle heat, however, sometimes they can become too hot, which not only poses a fire hazard, but can certainly affect its lifespan. Ensure your bulbs are getting proper ventilation. Bulbs accumulate layers of dust, so wipe them down every so often (while they are off!) to help them keep cool.
#4: Voltage is Too High
If you’re noticing light bulbs keep burning out at a steady rate, the problem may be how much voltage is entering your home. Slightly higher voltage may be imperceptible to other appliances and electronics when in use, but when it comes to your bulbs’ lifespans, they will surely be affected. If you suspect high voltage ratings in your home, we can test it out.
#5: Bad Wiring or Fixtures
If your light bulbs keep burning out, and it’s not because of any of the above, it could be from bad wiring or faulty fixtures. A rogue wire can cause fluctuations in current that can quickly damage bulbs and become a hazard. If bad wiring is the case, it’s likely you’ll need to contact a professional to ensure the wiring won’t lead to more than just blown bulbs.
Contact us today for a free quote on inspection for your home or business!