That new light globe you bought last week has blown already! That’s the third one this month! Is there something wrong with your wiring?
Well, the good news is your wiring is probably ok. The major cause of blown light bulbs is poor quality lamps. Most lamps are made cheaply overseas and they don’t last like they used to.
The old style incandescent lamps were the worst but new halogen lamps and compact fluorescent bulbs can still give similar problems. LED lamps have a very long, claimed average life span but of course they are not immune from failure. Most LED lamps have a warranty so you get a certain level of protection when you spend the extra money to go LED.
The best way to avoid constantly blowing lamps is to avoid the very cheapest versions and consider buying at a specialist lighting or hardware store rather than where you buy your milk and bread.
Of course there is always the chance you do have a wiring problem, so here are a couple of signs to look for.
It’s common for lamps to blow when they are switched on due to the inrush of current , however if the next lamp immediately does the same you might need to get it checked out.
Light fittings that take screw-in bulbs can have a problem if the lamp holder comes loose. The wires can be twisted round as the lamps are screwed in, sometime causing a short.
A blown fuse or circuit breaker that trips when you turn on a light switch also points to a problem in a light fitting or wiring.
Lights that flicker and dim also should be investigated, especially in older homes that may still have some VIR or rubber wiring.
Occasionally light globes explode and spread shattered glass everywhere. That’s bad enough, but now you also have the base of the lamp stuck in the light fitting with exposed live parts. It’s a potentially dangerous situation so turn off the light, put a piece of tape over the switch to prevent anyone turning it on and call your electrician.
For free advice and quotes on all lighting matters give us a call,
Mance Electrical on 6331 4711.
