Troubleshooting Common Problems with Halogen Light Bulbs

Halogen light bulbs are low-cost and energy efficient alternatives to standard incandescent light bulbs. Many homeowners turn to halogen bulbs for their excellent luminosity and longer lifespan, as well as the fact that they are better for the environment and are easy to install. However, halogen light bulbs do have a few downsides as well, and it can be frustrating to deal with some of the most common issues that affect halogen bulbs. Read on for information about these common problems and how to deal with them in your home.

Overheating

Halogen bulbs tend to overheat much faster than other types of light bulbs. While a bulb will not get so hot that it burns itself out, an extra-hot halogen bulb can cause minor burns and other injuries if you happen to touch it while it's on. For this reason, halogen bulbs are best installed in areas that are out of the way. Try to avoid using halogen light bulbs as the primary light source in areas where children or animals frequently walk, as they may not be able to control their movements as well.

The best place to install a halogen light is in a natural recess in a wall or ceiling, or high up where it is out of anyone's reach and not likely to be bumped up against during a normal day. When you are installing the halogen bulb in one of these places, keep in mind that the heat from a bulb of this kind can contribute to fires if the bulb is located too close to a flammable substance, like fabrics of various kinds.

Bright Light

Another of the most common issues that people have with halogen bulbs is that they shine too brightly. Halogen bulbs are not ideal for use in dim areas where the lighting should be low. In fact, halogen bulbs in bright spots of a home or building can get so bright that they may cause damage to your eyes or vision. One easy solution to this problem is to avoid looking at a halogen bulb directly if at all possible. This is possible when the bulb is located high up or in a recess where you cannot see it directly.

Another possible solution to the problem of halogen light bulbs burning too brightly is to cover up the bulb itself with a shade of some kind. Using halogen bulbs in lamps works quite well, as the lamp shade naturally covers and slightly dims the bright light of the bulb. This same effect can be accomplished with a piece of transparent or opaque fabric. However, be careful that you do not keep the bulb too close to a shade or piece of fabric, as this poses a serious fire hazard.

Many types of halogen light bulbs are available at hardware and home furnishing stores everywhere. Ask an electrician or hardware store representative for additional advice.