How to Change a Halogen Bulb?

You probably already know that halogen bulbs aren’t the most energy-efficient options when it comes to lighting. So how do you safely replace your halogen bulbs and what’s the best alternative?

Here we explain how to do it and present the best alternatives to halogen bulbs.

How do halogen bulbs work?

Halogen bulbs work by electrically heating a thin tungsten filament . This type of bulb emits a bright white light, like standard incandescent bulbs.

However, halogen bulbs differ slightly from incandescent bulbs in that they are filled with a special gas that allows the vaporized tungsten to redeposit on the filament. They therefore last longer and are more efficient, but they also run hotter than incandescent bulbs.

While some people like the idea of heating with their lighting, halogens are an inefficient way to heat your spaces, and you're better off keeping your lighting and heating separate.

You can get low voltage or high voltage halogen bulbs, but low voltage does not necessarily mean the bulb will save you energy .

Halogen bulbs are more efficient and longer lasting than traditional incandescent bulbs , but there are better solutions available today.

1. Safely remove halogen bulbs

Due to their construction, halogen bulbs can become extremely hot during operation. Follow these steps to minimize the risk of injury.

a) Unplug and let cool

Always unplug the light fixture from the electrical outlet and wait until it has completely cooled before removing it. It may take at least 10 minutes. Check by quickly touching the bulb to see if it is cool enough to remove.

b) Housing and parts

If your light fixture's bulb housing includes heat shields and protective covers, remember their locations and carefully set them aside so you can replace them later.

c) Handling of bulbs

To unscrew the bulb, grasp it firmly but gently so as not to crack the thin glass. Wear a glove or use a piece of cloth for extra protection.

Turn the bulb counter-clockwise to remove, or you may have a "bayonet" fitting, in which case you will need to push it in and turn it.

d) Difficult to access areas

If you are removing a light bulb from a hard to reach location, ensure you have the correct safety equipment to reach the bulb, or we can assist you as our electricians have specialist access equipment.

e) Elimination

Always wrap old halogen bulbs in layers of paper to avoid injury if the glass breaks. Check with your local council to see if you can dispose of the bulbs in your rubbish bins.

f) Alternatives and replacements for halogen bulbs

LEDs or CFLs are the best alternatives to halogen bulbs, with low wattage halogens and CRI halogens being the next options.

g) LED or CFL

LEDs and compact fluorescent bulbs are efficient and long-lasting alternatives to halogens. Because they are more efficient, a lower wattage will allow you to get more lumens.

Lumens measure brightness. For example, a 4-5 watt LED produces 230 lumens, while a 20 watt halogen bulb is required to achieve the same brightness. Note that LEDs are more energy efficient than CFLs.

h) Low power halogen lamps

If LEDs or CFLs are not an option, you can opt for a low-wattage halogen lamp. You will save electricity and the space will be cooler, but brightness will also be compromised.

i) IRC or energy-saving halogen lamps

Another option is IRC or energy-saving halogen lamps. They provide the same brightness while consuming less energy and can help you save up to 25% on your energy costs.

2. Things to check when choosing replacement bulbs

With so many manufacturers and product options, you'll likely be able to find an LED, CFL, or other solution that's compatible with your lighting fixture . However, always check the following before you buy, to save yourself a trip back to the store.

a) Lighting level

Make sure the light level of the replacement bulb matches what you are looking for. Check lumens rather than watts or volts to determine brightness.

b) Ignition delay

If you need the bulb to reach full brightness quickly, check the packaging to see if the replacement bulb can light up within the required time frame.

c) Light dimmers

If your light fixture has a dimmer switch, check that the replacement bulb can fit it.

d) Base type

The base type is probably the most obvious thing to check. Whether it's the diameter or the style (Edison screw or bayonet), make sure your replacement bulb has the correct base type.