Overlamping happens when you use a light bulb with a higher wattage than what the fixture requires. For example, if you place a 100-watt light bulb in a 60-watt fixture, the lamp-holder socket can heat up and melt the wires attached to the fixture. Learn more about the dangers of overlamping.
Dangers Associated with Overlamping
Lighting fixture insulation is only designed to resist heat up to a certain level of temperature. Newly installed fixtures can handle temperatures up to about 194°F. However, older fixtures can only handle around 140°F. Every light fixture has a recommended wattage in compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. If the wrong wattage is used, an electrical arc increases which then causes overheating and melting of the wiring. Overlamping results in a serious electrical fire.
So, how can you avoid this from happening in your home? It’s actually simple – use the recommended bulbs and wattage. If your fixtures are old and don’t specify the wattage recommendations, always use lower 60-watts bulbs. They are the safest as their electric consumption is not as high and therefore not as dangerous. Fortunately, in 1985 regulators in the United States created a strict policy that all lamps built had to display the required wattage of incandescent light bulbs on the underside of the fixture. In addition, LED bulbs are recommended; they are less likely to cause overlamping.
Contact Tim Kyle Electric
If overlamping has occurred in your home, contact a reliable electrician. For a qualified electrician in Howard County, contact the professionals of Tim Kyle Electric. No job is too small. We give 100% to every light bulb change, just as we do to a remodeling or rewiring project. Give us a call today for a free estimate.