If your light bulbs blow on a regular basis you’re probably buying cheap bulbs. The filaments in cheap bulbs are much thinner, and even very slight surges of power will break them. You’ll find that more expensive bulbs are cheaper in the long-run.
Compact fluorescent bulbs, which fit directly into standard sockets, will also save you money — their efficiency increase is as much as 75 percent. A 100W incandescent bulb can be replaced by a 23W fluorescent bulb, but still produces the same amount of light.
Another cause of light bulbs blowing is a loose connection in the bulb holder or a loose connection in the switch. If the electric current has to jump or ‘arc’ across a loose fitting, it creates heat or a surge that the bulb can’t cope with. Remove the bulb and check the contact on the bottom of the bulb. If the metal is pitted, this is evidence of arcing in the bulb holder.
If you’re tempted to try tightening the connections, TURN OFF THE MAINS before you do so. Otherwise, call an electrician.
