It’s uncommon but dangerous to have lightbulbs explode. Here are reasons why lightbulbs explode and ways to prevent them.
8 Reasons Traditional Lightbulbs Explode
Burned-out lightbulbs are annoying and inconvenient, but an easy fix. Exploding lightbulbs is a different kind of problem. Common reasons why incandescent lightbulbs explode include:
- Bad bulbs – Anything mass-produced can have defective parts. It’s okay to open the box while in the store to inspect the bulbs before you buy. If anything doesn’t look right, give the bad bulbs to a sales associate.
- Connections – Sometimes the connection is worn from age causing the alignment between the bulb and socket to be unstable. And if you don’t screw the bulb into a fixture properly, the loose connection can cause flickering or explosions.
- Insulation – Improper lightbulb insulation can cause the filament or base metal to overheat and lead to a lightbulb explosion. Also, fluorescent and incandescent bulbs have gas inside to protect the filaments. An overheated lightbulb base can ignite the gas and cause the bulb to explode.
- Oil – Traditional lightbulbs are surprisingly sensitive to oils, especially halogen bulbs. (Halogens are often used for headlamps, under cabinets, and as worklights.) When replacing bulbs, our hands and fingers can leave an oily residue on the bulb that later heats and causes the bulb to explode.
- Surges – Older homes have more power surges than newer ones, but homes of any age can experience energy surges. Power spikes can cause frequent lightbulb explosions.
- Vibrations – There shouldn’t be much earth vibration in an Arizona home, but other things can cause light fixtures to tremble. Ceiling fan lights are especially prone to vibrate, and their shaky filaments can lead to lightbulb explosions.
- Voltage – If your home has a voltage problem, particularly overvoltage, it can cause lightbulbs to burn brighter and hotter. This can lead to lightbulbs burning out too soon or exploding.
- Wattage – Many fixtures recommend a specific lightbulb wattage. If the fixture and lightbulb wattage don’t match, the bulb can draw more power than the fixture was designed to accommodate.
LED Lightbulb Explosions
Many of us have switched to LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs, which are just naturally safer. LEDs don’t produce sparks, unlike traditional incandescent bulbs. If there is an “explosion” in an LED light fixture, it likely has something to do with the electrical installation itself.
LEDs can explode due to:
- Electrical stress is the result of an overpowered LED capacitor. The capacitor is what transfers energy from the outlet to the bulb. If the lightbulb requires only 2-4 volts of electricity but the outlet is 120 volts, the imbalanced electricity can cause a lightbulb explosion. Power surges can also cause electrical stress.
- Thermal stress occurs when too much current bursts into the lightbulb. The LED retains the heat, and it causes inside pressure to build. The bulb itself can’t expand to accommodate the pressure, so it causes a short circuit. Then the LED lightbulb explodes.
Preventing Lightbulb Problems
“Inexpensive” can also mean “inferior.” Basically, not buying cheap bulbs is key to preventing lightbulb explosions. Other ways to prevent lightbulbs from burning out too soon or exploding are:
- Inspect sockets for loose connections.
- Read manufacturers’ instructions for light fixtures and know the recommended lightbulb wattage. When in doubt, go with low-wattage bulbs.
- Surge suppressors, especially Phoenix whole-house surge protectors, can greatly reduce power spikes and their risks, which can include frequent lightbulb explosions.
- Wear gloves when handling lightbulbs. In a pinch, grip the base with your fingers and screw the bulb in using a cloth or paper towel to protect the bulb from oils.
Q: How many DIYers (do-it-yourselfers) does it take to screw in a lightbulb?
A: Only one, but it takes at least 2 weekends and four trips to Lowe’s.
You shouldn’t need an electrician to change a lightbulb (despite the joke), but exploding lightbulbs are often a sign of a serious electrical problem. Don’t hesitate to seek professional electrical help if you suspect you have circuitry or voltage problems.
Your time is valuable, but your family’s safety is priceless. Let our professionals ensure you have electrical protections in place today for a safer tomorrow. Contact TIO Electric.
