Factors That Affect The Durability Of Bulbs And How Electrical Services Can Prolong Their Life | Wilmington, NC
Light bulbs are a staple throughout our homes and businesses in Wilmington, NC, but why do some last much longer than others? It turns out that several factors come into play when it comes to determining how long any given bulb will last, which has implications on the cost and convenience of replacing your lighting fixtures. In this blog post, we will go over many of the common elements that affect the durability of light bulbs and how electrical services professionals can help you extend their lifespan.
Type of Bulb
The type of bulb plays an important role in its durability. Incandescent bulbs generally have a shorter life than LED bulbs due to temperatures rising inside the bulb, which causes them to burn out long before other types of bulbs. On the other hand, LED bulbs include small pieces called diodes that create their light more efficiently and last significantly longer. Some LED models are rated for up to 50,000 hours, meaning they can last 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Additionally, LEDs use less energy and generate less heat which helps to keep them from breaking down as quickly as incandescents. It is important to understand how each type of bulb works to determine the most suitable option for your energy efficiency and longevity needs. In this regard, you should consult a qualified electrical services technician in Wilmington, NC to understand the differences in bulb types and make an informed decision.
Light Fixture Quality
The quality of one’s light fixtures should not be taken for granted when it comes to the longevity of their bulbs. Poorly made fixtures can indirectly cause bulbs to burn out faster due to increased friction among connection points, poor connections, or inadequate insulation. Furthermore, a well-designed fixture will often be ventilated, allowing for improved airflow that allows heat from the bulb to dissipate more efficiently and thereby keep the bulb from reaching higher temperatures than optimal.
Even a good-quality bulb may suffer damage or decrease life expectancy if exposed to high temperatures for extended periods without proper ventilation. Therefore, in the long run, it pays off to invest in high-quality light fixtures that will ensure adequate and safe bulbs’ performance throughout their lifetime. An experienced electrical services technician can help you determine the best fixtures for your needs and install them with utmost care.
Location of Bulb
The location of a bulb can have an enormous impact on its durability. If you have installed a bulb in a place exposed to the elements, such as rain and wind, it will not last nearly as long as a bulb safely tucked away from the environment. Additionally, if your bulb is exposed to too much vibration or physical shock, it could easily cause the filament to break or burn out prematurely. The best placement for any lightbulb is one where it can remain dry, undisturbed, and not subject to direct sunlight. When deciding on the best placement for a bulb in your home or business, seek guidance from an electrical services technician to ensure that you make the right decision. An electrical services expert can advise you on properly protecting the bulb from environmental elements.
Usage Patterns
How often you use your bulbs also affects their lifespan. Bulbs constantly switched on will naturally burn out faster than bulbs used sparingly or in cycles. Frequent cycling, or turning on and off, can damage a bulb’s filament due to the expansion and contraction that occurs with each cycle of use. It is important to not only consider different types of bulbs for their energy efficiency but also pay attention to how often you use them. If your light fixtures are in areas such as hallways or staircases that require frequent use, you may want to consider longer-lasting alternatives such as LEDs or CFLs. An experienced electrical services technician can help you choose the most suitable bulb for your needs and usage pattern.
Voltage Variations
Voltage variations can cause much damage to the filament of a light bulb which can drastically affect its overall durability. A bulb exposed to higher-than-normal voltage levels can draw more energy and generate more heat, making the filament inside burn out more quickly. In addition, if the filament is operating at too high a temperature, it may expand to such an extent that it no longer provides a near-perfect circuit, leading to breakage of the filament.
When the filament is degraded, it lowers the overall quality of the lighting output from a bulb. For this reason, if you are looking for long-lasting bulbs, purchase ones rated with the voltage level of your region and make sure fixtures are receiving a consistent voltage. Reach out to an electrical services technician in Wilmington, NC to ensure the voltage in your home or business is consistent and safe for all of your lighting needs.
Wattage
One of the most important factors while selecting a bulb is wattage. Bulbs with higher wattages tend to generate more heat and can cause greater damage to their filaments than those with lower wattages. Additionally, bulbs of higher wattage draw more electricity and can strain the wiring leading to hiring electrical services frequently to repair the wiring and outlets. Therefore, it is wise to select bulbs based on the recommended wattage for their fixtures and ensure they are only used as intended. An experienced electrical services technician can help you choose the right wattage for your bulb so that it both provides satisfactory lighting performance and does not cause any damage to its filament.
We Are the Electrical Company to Trust
At Mister Sparky of Wilmington, we understand the importance of choosing the right bulb for your needs and getting maximum longevity. Our team of experienced professionals is available to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair any electrical issue you may be having. Contact us today for all your electrical needs!