Step by step guide to replacing halogen bulbs in your home.

As you probably know, halogen bulbs aren’t the most efficient lighting options. How can you replace your halogen bulbs safely, and which is the best option? We will show you how to do it and then discuss the best light bulbs alternatives to halogens.

GETTING TO KNOW HALOGEN LIGHT BULBS

The tungsten wire filament is heated with electricity to create halogen light bulbs. This type of lightbulb emits bright white light similar to standard incandescent bulbs. The halogen light bulb is slightly different from incandescents in that they are filled with a special gas that allows the vaporized and dissolved tungsten to be deposited onto the filament. They are also more efficient and last longer than incandescents, but they also heat up faster.

Although some people love the idea of heating their spaces with their lighting, halogens can be inefficient and heat up too quickly. It’s better to separate your heating and lighting. Low-voltage or high-voltage halogens are available, but this doesn’t mean the bulb will be more efficient. While halogens offer higher efficiency and a longer lifespan than conventional incandescents, there are better options available.

SAFELY REMOVE HALOGEN LIGHT BULBS

Halogen light bulbs are extremely hot due to the way they are made. Take care when you remove your lightbulbs. These steps will help to reduce the risk of injury.

• Cooldown and unplug – Before removing the light fixture, unplug it from the electrical socket. Wait until it cools down completely before you remove it. It might take up to 10 minutes for the bulb to cool down completely. To ensure that the bulb is sufficiently cool before you remove it, take a quick look at it.
• Housing and its parts – Heat guards and protective covers may be included in the housing of your light fixture. Make sure you remember their locations and then carefully remove them so that they can be reattached later.
• Lighting bulbs – To remove the lightbulb, use a firm grasp but not too gentle to ensure that the glass doesn’t break. For extra protection, wear gloves or use a piece of cloth. To remove the bulb, turn it counterclockwise. Alternately, you may have a bayonet fitting. In this case, you will need push-in and turn. Don’t force the bulb to move. Instead, contact Platinum Electricians. We will safely remove it.
• It’s difficult to reach places – If you need to remove a bulb from a difficult-to-reach area, make sure you have the appropriate safety equipment. Alternatively, we can assist you as our electricians have special access to equipment.
• Disposal – To prevent damage in the event of broken glass, wrap any old halogen bulbs in layers of newspaper. You should check with your local council to see if the lightbulbs can be placed in your garbage.

ALTERNATIVES & REPLACEMENTS – HALOGEN LIGHT BULBS

CFLs and LEDs are better alternatives to halogen bulbs than halogen lightbulbs. IRC halogens, which have lower wattages, and halogens with higher wattages, are also options.

• LEDs and CFLs – Compact fluorescent lightbulbs and LEDs are long-lasting, efficient alternatives to halogens. They are more efficient and will produce more lumens. A lower wattage will result in more lumens. Lumens are a measure of brightness. A good example is: A 4-5-watt LED will produce 230 lumens. For the same brightness, a 20-watt halogen is needed. Notice that LEDs are more efficient than CFLs.
• Halogens with lower wattage – You can choose a lower-wattage halogen if LEDs or CFLs don’t work for you. While you’ll save electricity, space will not be as hot, and brightness will be reduced.
• IRC or energy-saving halogen lampsAnother alternative is the IRC (energy saver halogen lamps). These are the alternatives. They provide the same brightness with less power and can help you to save up to 25% on your energy bills.

A CHECKLIST OF THINGS YOU SHOULD REMEMBER IF YOU CHOOSE REPLACEMENT LIGHT BULB COLORS

There are many manufacturers and options available so you can find the right product for your fixture. To save time and money, make sure you read the following before buying.

• Light level – Ensure that the replacement bulb’s light level is appropriate for your needs. To determine brightness, use lumens rather than watts or voltages.
• Time to reach full brightness– Check the packaging if you require the lightbulb’s full brightness within a short time.
• Dimmers– Check that your replacement bulb can be used with a dimming light fixture.
• Type base – It is important to verify the base type. No matter what size or style it is (e.g. bayonet caps or Edison screws), make sure your replacement has the correct base type.
• Colour – You can find bulbs in white light and tinted shades of warmer yellows. Make sure to check the packaging before you buy.

You should replace halogen lighting in your home or business with LEDs or CFLs. If you have to remove or handle halogens, take extra care and seek professional advice. On Electrical Contractors is a market leader and offers a wide range of electrical services throughout North Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast areas. Contact our friendly service team if you have any lighting-related issues.