Why Do My Lightbulbs Burn Out So Quickly?

Why Do My Lightbulbs Burn Out So Quickly?

Why Do My Lightbulbs Burn Out So Quickly?

Do you often find yourself wondering why your lightbulbs seem to need replaced so often?  You swear you remember just switching out the bulb the other day.  Okay, so they may not burn out that quickly, but lightbulbs may be burning through their lifespan quickly for a few reasons.  As electricians in Apopka, FL, we understand the ins and outs of your electrical and wiring systems and we can help with any issues or concerns you have.  There are a few reasons why your lightbulbs may be burning out quicker than you thought they would.

Lightbulb Too Large for Socket

Are you using the right size lightbulb?  Many people may not even be aware of this, but lamps and fixtures are designed for specific lightbulb sizes.  Be sure to take the time to read the instructions around the base of your light fixture to fully understand what type of bulb you need.  This can prevent your bulbs from malfunctioning or burning out too quickly from overworking.  These sizes are indicated on the socket that you screw your bulb into, so take the time to look at them before you head out to the store for a replacement.

Wrong Type of Lightbulb

If you are using a compact fluorescent (CFL) lightbulb, you may assume that they last longer than incandescent lightbulbs.  However, this isn't always true.  These bulbs commonly go bad before their time expires.  These bulbs have an even shorter lifespan if they are used in a lamp that is frequently turned on and off.  Avoid using these lightbulbs in lamps or fixtures that you use on a daily basis, as you will end up replacing them more frequently than you expect.

Loose Connection

When the bulb isn't fully and securely screwed into the lamp, it can flicker on and off.  The first thing you should do is check to see if it is fully screwed into place.  Also, make sure that the wire is securely attached to the lamp and the wall.  This is another common place where connections may be disrupted or loose, which can cause more stress on your lightbulbs over time.

Short Circuit

Another reason why your lightbulb may appear to be malfunctioning is when the wiring to your lamp is on a short circuit.  This can cause your light to randomly go dark during different times of the day.  A short circuit is when the electrical current flows outside of the actual wiring, which can cause the circuit to trip and essential disable itself.  You may have a defective fuse or have too many things plugged into one circuit.  Move your lamps around to try different arrangements.

These are a few of the reasons why your lightbulbs may be burning out faster than they should be.  If you find yourself in need of quality electricians in Apopka, FL, contact the professionals at Spectrum Electric to hear how we can help you today.

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