If your light bulbs seem to burn out faster than they should, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience this issue and assume it’s just bad luck or cheap bulbs but frequent blowouts can actually point to underlying electrical problems. Here are some of the most common reasons your bulbs might be burning out and what you can do about it.
Cheap or Low-Quality Bulbs
One of the most common culprits is simply low-quality bulbs. Cheaper bulbs often have thinner filaments that can’t handle even minor fluctuations in power, causing them to fail prematurely. Over time, this adds up to wasted money and frustration. Investing in higher-quality bulbs or switching to LEDs is a simple fix that pays off. LED bulbs, in particular, are more durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting they don’t rely on fragile filaments and can handle small voltage changes far better than traditional options.
Arcing Electricity
If a bulb doesn’t sit snugly in its socket, it can cause electricity to arc between the bulb and socket connection. This arcing creates excess heat and can quickly blow the bulb. You might notice dark spots or small burns on the base of the bulb, a telltale sign this is happening. Sometimes the cause is as simple as the small brass tab inside the socket being flattened from over-tightening the bulb. With the fixture unplugged or the breaker turned off, you can carefully raise the tab before replacing the bulb. If this doesn’t help, or if you notice the problem across multiple fixtures, it’s best to call a licensed electrician to safely inspect the wiring.
Loose or Damaged Wiring
Loose connections within a fixture or circuit can also cause bulbs to blow out. When wires or sockets are corroded, damaged, or not properly connected, they can cause voltage fluctuations that shorten a bulb’s life. If you’re noticing bulbs burning out in several areas of your home, the issue may be with the wiring itself rather than the bulbs or fixtures. An electrician can identify and repair any damaged wiring, ensuring your connections are secure and safe.
High Voltage
Even a small amount of excess voltage can dramatically shorten a bulb’s lifespan. Too much voltage creates heat that can burn through filaments or damage internal components. If multiple bulbs across your home seem to fail quickly, it’s worth having your home’s voltage checked. A licensed electrician can measure your power levels and recommend protective solutions, such as installing a whole-home surge protector to stabilize voltage and protect your lighting system.
Vibration and Movement
Sometimes, it’s not your wiring or voltage at all, it’s vibration. Traditional filament bulbs are very delicate, and even small, repetitive movements from ceiling fans, garage doors, or heavy foot traffic can cause the filament to snap. In these cases, switching to LED bulbs or using rough-service bulbs designed to resist vibration is the best solution. LEDs are far more durable and unaffected by movement, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
When to Call the Pros
Frequent light bulb blowouts aren’t just frustrating they can point to a deeper electrical issue. If you’ve replaced bulbs and the problem keeps coming back, it’s time to call the pros. At Lights On Electric, our licensed Philadelphia electricians specialize in finding the cause and fixing it safely from faulty fixtures to wiring problems. We’ll make sure your home stays safe and shining bright. Contact Lights On Electric today to schedule your inspection or lighting repair!