Why Your Light Bulbs Are Burning Out So Fast (& What To Do About It)

Have you ever been shopping for new light bulbs and asked yourself, "Didn't I just buy these?" Maybe you could've sworn that you just replaced the one in the foyer, and perhaps the light in the bathroom. What's going on? Why are these light bulbs burning out so fast? There are several reasons why your bulbs can burn out quickly. You may have loose, faulty wiring, the voltage may be too high, or you may make one of the biggest mistakes everyone makes when buying light bulbs – choosing the wrong wattage.

Light bulbs don't last forever, and when you buy a box, the package usually lists a projected lifespan based on three to four hours of daily use. A bulb's lifespan varies by type, with LED bulbs as the longest-lasting. Getting a sufficient lifespan out of your light bulb means using them properly, and if you don't, or if you have electric issues, they will burn out much faster. Here's how to avoid your light bulbs failing so fast.

Light bulbs burning out quickly can indicate problems with the electric system in your house, specifically loose writing. A loose wiring connection means the bulb doesn't get a consistent stream of electricity, and instead, power is intermittent. Experts say this is similar to turning a light switch on and off repeatedly, which drains bulbs faster. Before you use the questionable socket again, check for loose wires. One of the most crucial things to consider, however, is that too-high voltage can also lead to fast-burning light bulbs. Too much voltage makes electric current vary widely in your home. It is a sign you need to call an electrician, as excessive high voltage is a major fire risk. 

When you purchase your next pack of light bulbs, take time to verify their correct use. Each light socket or lighting product, such as a lamp, features a wattage rating. You should use the appropriate light bulb and never exceed the listed wattage with a too-high wattage bulb. If you use the wrong light bulb, you can damage your lighting socket, reduce the bulb's lifespan, and in some cases, cause a fire if it significantly overheats. In addition, check if you have the wrong kind of bulb for the fixture, such as a CFL in a spot better suited for an LED bulb, as this can affect the bulb's performance (especially if used with a motion sensor, since repeat use can degrade them faster).