Home Garden

How to Rectify a Light Bulb to Last Longer

It is an annoyance experienced by most: walking into a room and flipping the light switch on, only to have the bulb die with a quick flash and a crackle. While there is not much for you to do to the light bulb itself to make it last longer, there are ways to lengthen the life of your light bulbs that involve making more educated decisions when purchasing light bulbs and changing your light usage habits.

Things You'll Need

  • Energy-efficient light bulbs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Replace the bulbs in your home with energy-efficient light bulbs, such as LED or CFL light bulbs. These bulbs will not only save you in energy and cooling costs, but they are also designed to last longer than traditional light bulbs. Many of these bulbs are also designed to create a stronger light the longer they are on, so less energy is used during moments when you only need a light for a short time.

    • 2

      Select the correct wattage and voltage for the lighting fixture. When the numbers associated with your light bulb exceed those specified for your lighting fixture, it uses more energy to run the light.

    • 3

      Purchase lighting fixtures with multiple light sources and more than one setting, or install a dimmer. That way you can use only as many bulbs as you need at the time.

    • 4

      Turn off lights when you are not currently in the room.

    • 5

      Install timers on outdoor lights so they run only when they are needed.

    • 6

      Rely on natural lighting as much as possible. Hang mirrors in your home to create more light and trim any foliage away from windows that could block incoming light.