4 Potential Dangers to Consider When Using Halogen Light Bulbs

Many people use halogen light bulbs freely throughout their homes. Halogen light bulbs are among the most common types of light bulbs in the world today, and they do have several benefits. While generally considered safe, there are a few potential dangers that you need to consider when using halogen light bulbs.

1. Potential Burns

Because of the way that they are constructed, halogen light bulbs burn hotter than similar incandescent light bulbs. They have a smaller surface envelope to work with and therefore, tend to concentrate the heat when left on for long periods of time. When you leave a halogen light bulb on for a long time, you need to be careful not to touch it. More importantly, you will want to make sure that they are not within reach of small children while they are turned on.

Touching a halogen light bulb while it is on has been known to cause some serious burns on the skin. They could be serious enough to require medical treatment, especially when dealing with children.

2. Sun Burn

While it might seem strange to think about, some halogen bulbs have been known to cause sunburns on those that sit beneath their lighting for too long. The halogen bulb emits a certain level of UV rays when it is turned on. Therefore, if you sit within direct exposure to the bulb, you could be burned as a result. If you use halogen bulbs, you need to use them in moderation, much the same way you would treat being out in the sun.

3. Fire Danger

Another problem that you may have to worry about with halogen bulbs is that they could potentially cause a fire in some cases. As you know, they burn hotter than comparable incandescent or LED light bulbs. Because of this, they have been known to cause a fire when they touch the wrong surface for too long. For example, if the lamp falls over while the light is turned on, it could potentially catch the drapes, carpet, or some paper on fire. Small children have been known to drop a blanket or some other flammable object on the top of a lamp and leave it. While it would not ignite immediately, over time, it could potentially cause something to catch on fire.

4. Glass Hazard

The fact that the bulb is made out of glass can present you with a potential danger all by itself. This is not limited to only halogen bulbs, but it should be considered with any light bulb. If a light bulb breaks, the pieces of glass that it emits could potentially cause a dangerous situation. If someone were to come along and step on one, it could cut them severely. When dealing with any light bulb, make sure that you are very careful and prevent breaks. If a break happens, do not allow any breakage to go unswept for long.