You’ve had a light bulb or ceiling light that flickers now and then. You may try the switch, but the light doesn’t come on, or it only comes on when it wants to. These are signs of a faulty light fixture. How do you keep your light fixtures working the way they should?
Make Sure the Fixture Was Correctly Installed
The first step to ensure your light fixture works is to ensure it is securely installed. Misjudging when installing an electrical fixture not only increases the chances of it malfunctioning but also can lead to a potential fire hazard. That is why it is best to have fixtures installed by a licensed electrician.
Have Regular Maintenance Calls by an Electrician
Once you have an electrician install the light fixtures, consider having them maintain the fixtures as well. They will inspect all the light fixtures in your home to ensure they are in good working order. If they are not, the electrician will repair them. While checking the lighting fixtures, the electrician should also examine the wiring to ensure that connections are tight and that wires are not frayed. They will also inspect your circuit box to ensure that your electrical system is not overloaded. Maintenance calls should occur every three to five years.
Use the Right Lightbulbs
In the days before LEDs became widespread, it was tempting to screw a 200-watt incandescent lightbulb into a lamp to bring more light into a space. They used a bulb with a wattage above what the lamp specified, even though it called for a 100-watt bulb. Using a bulb that exceeds the fixture’s wattage can lead to overheating. Wattage does matter for LED bulbs, but it’s different from incandescent bulbs in that it doesn’t affect how bright the light bulb gets. LED bulbs measure brightness in lumens.
Don’t Neglect Your Outdoor Lighting
It’s easy to believe that because your outdoor lighting must withstand the elements, it doesn’t need as much care as your indoor lighting. This isn’t true. In fact, it’s because outdoor lights have to endure many weather conditions that they need more maintenance. In this case, an electrician should inspect your outdoor fixtures at least once a year and replace or repair any worn-out or damaged fixtures.
Get in Touch With Us To Learn More About Your Light Fixtures
Your light fixtures make it possible for you to do all manner of activities in the dead of night. They can set the mood in your rooms, and they provide safety and security when you step outside. To learn more about your lighting, give our electricians a call at Circuit Doctors in Waldorf, MD.
