Back when incandescent bulbs were the norm, some people who felt that their room was too dark screwed a 200-watt lightbulb into a lamp only rated for 100 watts. Sometimes the only thing that happened was that the room became brighter. In other cases, the mismatch between the bulb wattage and fixture rating caused overheating and increased the risk of an electrical fire. Mismatches between a light fixture and the bulb wattage are one of several things that can be a fire hazard.
Why You Should Mind the Wattage
The reason you shouldn’t put a 200-watt lightbulb in a 100-watt lamp is that it can overheat the lightbulb. When that happens, the socket it’s been screwed into can melt, as can the insulation that covers the wire. This raises the risk of arcing, which can lead to fire. One of the benefits of newer LED lightbulbs is that they can give the same amount of light as an incandescent bulb using far less wattage.
Keep Lights Away From Combustible Materials
Even if you’re using LED lightbulbs, it’s still a good idea to keep your lighting fixtures away from anything that can easily catch on fire. This includes curtains, paper, plants and upholstery fabrics.
Make Sure the Fixture Is Well Ventilated
Some homeowners once draped scented fabric over hot light bulbs to add fragrance to a room, but this creates a high risk of fire. Make sure that all of your light fixtures have a bit of clearance around them. Lighting experts recommend that table or floor lamps be placed at least three feet from anything combustible. Recessed lights need a clearance of at least three inches, wall sconces need a clearance of about six inches from the wall, and pendants should be at least a foot from anything flammable. Even enclosed fixtures can become dangerously hot if airflow is restricted or the wrong bulb is installed.
Have Your Electrical System Checked
Another way to reduce fire hazards is to schedule periodic electrical inspections, especially in older homes. This is especially important if your home is older. An electrician can spot components that have been damaged or are no longer up to code, such as aluminum wiring. They can tell you how to upgrade your electrical system and keep fire hazards at bay.
Don’t Overload the Circuits
Another way to reduce the risk of fire hazards when it comes to lighting is to not plug a lot of high-draw fixtures into a power strip at one time. If you plan to add multiple fixtures or high-powered devices, an electrician can determine whether your current electrical system can safely handle the added demand.
Simple lighting safety habits can help reduce fire risks and keep your home safer over time. Understanding how different fixtures and bulbs generate heat can also help you avoid preventable electrical problems. If you have concerns or require lighting services, contact Duryea in Holyoke, MA.
