
Should you use outdoor light bulbs for exterior fixtures?
Make Sure to Use Outdoor Light bulbs for Exterior Fixtures At some point, you’ll have to replace your outdoor light bulbs. Regular light bulbs only last for so long, but you know that LED ones last even longer. Read on to see why you should get high-quality outdoor light bulbs and see some of the best ones on the market.
Are halogen light bulbs safe?
While generally considered safe, there are a few potential dangers that you need to consider when using halogen light bulbs. 1. Potential Burns Because of the way that they are constructed, halogen light bulbs burn hotter than similar incandescent light bulbs.
Can halogens be used outside?
Similar to incandescents, halogens can’t be used outside unless they have a heavy glass design to tolerate the thermal shock of rain water, like halogen PAR lamps. Another exception is halogens enclosed in outdoor rated fixtures.
What are the best outdoor light bulbs?
Here, the best outdoor light bulbs on the market. Powerful, long-lasting, and energy-efficient, the Cree BR30 LED outshines all other competition. This 65-watt bulb produces 680 lumens of gorgeous, soft-white light—strong enough for outdoor use and gentle enough for indoor.

What light bulbs can be used outside?
Standard incandescent light bulbs can be used outdoors so long as they are not directly exposed to rain. Covered locations are best for standard incandescent bulbs. If you think a light bulb will be exposed to the elements, check its packaging to be sure it is rated for outdoor use.
Do halogen lights work in cold weather?
Halogen. Halogen Quartz Lamps are good for cold weather use because they produce a lot of heat and can be very bright. They come in different shapes, sizes and wattages but all burn hot enough to stay lit even if the surrounding air or conditions dip below freezing temperatures.
What happens if you use an indoor light bulb outside?
A lamp or fixture listed for dry locations that is used outdoors can become a fire hazard. When exposed to the elements, water can get into the fixture and ultimately into the lamp, causing leakage current. Leakage current occurs because water conducts electricity.
Are all light bulbs suitable for outdoor use?
Can all light bulbs be used outdoors? Standard light bulbs can be used outdoors as long as they are protected from contact with rain or snow. For exposed locations, use an outdoor light bulb that is wet rated for outdoor use.
Is there a difference between outdoor and indoor light bulbs?
The biggest difference between indoor and outdoor light bulbs is that outdoor light bulbs can withstand temperature changes and moisture. Indoor light bulbs should never be used in outdoor fittings.
Do LED lights work outside in winter?
In cold weather, the electronic driver, which causes the LED to produce light, will thrive. In fact, LED lights work best within a range of –25F and 140F, meaning they are suitable for outdoor use anywhere in the United States and Canada.
Can I put an indoor light on a covered porch?
However, you may be able to use certain interior fixtures, which are UL-rated as “damp,” in covered porches or other covered outdoor areas that are shielded from the elements.
Which is better for outdoor lighting LED or incandescent?
Excess heat thrown by outdoor lighting can be dangerous. Not only can overheating lights cause outages, but they also run the risk of catching dryer foliage on fire. LED lighting stays cool to the touch, making it a much safer option for outdoor lights.
How do you make an indoor lamp an outdoor lamp?
0:102:08DIY Outdoor Lamp - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo on or bottom just take a pair of scissors. Make. Sure it's not plugged in and cut off the court.MoreSo on or bottom just take a pair of scissors. Make. Sure it's not plugged in and cut off the court. From the bottom once you've done that you can really easily pull the plug out of the top.
How do I choose outdoor light bulbs?
If you want a brighter light, a 100- or 120-watt bulb will work well. A higher intensity bulb will illuminate a larger area. This is especially helpful if your porch or patio is large, or if you want to cover a wider area around your entrance.
Where are halogen lights used?
Halogen lamps are used in automotive headlamps, under-cabinet lighting, and work lights. In addition, halogen reflectors like MR and PAR lamps are often preferred for directed lighting such as spotlights and floodlights. They are also increasingly being used as a more efficient alternative to incandescent reflectors.
Can any LED bulb be used outdoors?
Any LED placed outside should be outdoor rated. However, in a sealed lamp post or porch light, you could use an LED rated for enclosed fixtures. LEDs exposed to the weather should be UL damp or wet location listed, depending on the level of exposure.
Can cold weather affect your headlights?
There is one problem with LED headlights in winter conditions, and it's again related to heat. While it's fantastic that they work so well without worrying about it being too cold, it would actually be beneficial if they did generate some warmth, just like traditional halogens. The reason for that is snow and slush.
Do LED lights work in a cold garage?
LED shop lights work very well in a cold garage! In fact, LED lights work better in extreme cold than in extreme heat. In addition to boasting higher efficiency and sustainability, they are perfectly suited for cold weather conditions.
How do I keep my headlights from freezing?
like your taillights, some aftermarket headlights and nearly all fog lights and clearance lights on the market… are prone to freezing. Spray them with cooking spray, Fabulous PB Blaster or WD-40 before you head out.
Are LED headlights good in snow?
The headlights got packed with snow/ice since LEDs do not produce enough heat to melt the snow and ice like the old halogen and HID bulbs can. The snow and ice buildup is horrible, dangerous, and potentially life threatening.
Can LED lights be used outside?
Any LED placed outside should be outdoor rated. However, in a sealed lamp post or porch light, you could use an LED rated for enclosed fixtures. LEDs exposed to the weather should be UL damp or wet location listed, depending on the level of exposure.
Can CFLs be used indoors?
CFLs – Indoor Use Only. That cute, spiral CFL will do fine in the heat but won’t work in the winter. Most CFLs don’t work in cold weather, the exceptions being bug lights and Cold Cathode CFLs (CCFL). The typical UL rating for your standard 60-Watt equal CFL is indoor dry locations only.
Can you use incandescent bulbs outside?
Also invest in outdoor rated, heavy duty extension cords and weather-resistant covers for your outlets. Standard incandescent bulbs and flood lights can be used outside as long as they are not exposed to rain or other elements. Otherwise, you need to check your bulb’s packaging for an outdoor rating.
Is rope light waterproof?
Lighting Tip: Rope light is waterproof until its cut! Whether it’s incandescent or LED, the lights are protected by the surrounding plastic tubing. Once cut, the UL listing is voided but a little shrink wrap should protect your connections.
Why is choosing an outdoor light bulb so fun?
Choosing an outdoor light bulb is almost fun because you can choose the style, color, and features on it. You should consider what kind of lightbulb you need for your house/apartment and go from there. If you have enjoyed reading this guide, please let us know in the comments!
Why are outdoor lights good?
Features. Some outdoor bulbs are perfect for safety purposes, thanks to built-in motion sensors that allow light to move through an object. Others light up the night with 360-degree light, making it possible to see dark corners or the side of your courtyard.
How many lumens is a 60 watt bulb?
A lumen of 750 lumens equal to a 60-watt Bulb calculates the luminosity of the LED bulb. If you choose to get mood light, pick a softer, fewer lumens light bulb. But a great fit is a higher-powered lamp if you’re trying to illuminate the night after the sun goes down.
How long do LED lights last?
LED lights do cost a bit more, but you will be saving on electricity and light bulbs (as they last at least 10 years) for years to come.
Is an outdoor light bulb weather resistant?
Indoor bulbs are not weather resistant and can’t take any kind of moisture. Outdoor lights are made out of non-corrosive material and the material is usually 10x better than the indoor ones because there’s always a chance it’ll get wet.
Do outdoor lights last longer?
At some point, you’ll have to replace your outdoor light bulbs. Regular light bulbs only last for so long, but you know that LED ones last even longer. Read on to see why you should get high-quality outdoor light bulbs and see some of the best ones on the market.
Can you use indoor lights in a shed?
But if you live in a harsher climate, then you probably don’t want to use indoor lighting in your garage or shed as the material won’ t be able to withstand the temperatures.
Why do halogen bulbs burn so hot?
1. Potential Burns. Because of the way that they are constructed, halogen light bulbs burn hotter than similar incandescent light bulbs. They have a smaller surface envelope to work with and therefore, tend to concentrate the heat when left on for long periods of time. When you leave a halogen light bulb on for a long time, ...
Why do halogen lights burn?
While it might seem strange to think about, some halogen bulbs have been known to cause sunburns on those that sit beneath their lighting for too long. The halogen bulb emits a certain level of UV rays when it is turned on.
What happens if a light bulb breaks?
If a light bulb breaks, the pieces of glass that it emits could potentially cause a dangerous situation. If someone were to come along and step on one, it could cut them severely. When dealing with any light bulb, make sure that you are very careful and prevent breaks.
What happens if a lamp falls over?
For example, if the lamp falls over while the light is turned on, it could potentially catch the drapes, carpet, or some paper on fire. Small children have been known to drop a blanket or some other flammable object on the top of a lamp and leave it.
Can you touch a halogen bulb?
When you leave a halogen light bulb on for a long time, you need to be careful not to touch it. More importantly, you will want to make sure that they are not within reach of small children while they are turned on. Touching a halogen light bulb while it is on has been known to cause some serious burns on the skin.
Is it safe to use halogen bulbs?
Halogen light bulbs are among the most common types of light bulbs in the world today, and they do have several benefits. While generally considered safe, there are a few potential dangers that you need to consider when using halogen light bulbs. 1. Potential Burns.
Can halogen bulbs cause fire?
Another problem that you may have to worry about with halogen bulbs is that they could potentially cause a fire in some cases. As you know, they burn hotter than comparable incandescent or LED light bulbs. Because of this, they have been known to cause a fire when they touch the wrong surface for too long. For example, if the lamp falls over while the light is turned on, it could potentially catch the drapes, carpet, or some paper on fire. Small children have been known to drop a blanket or some other flammable object on the top of a lamp and leave it. While it would not ignite immediately, over time, it could potentially cause something to catch on fire.
What bulbs can be used in outdoor fixtures?
If the flood lights are not exposed to rain, they can be used outside. Check your bulb’s packaging for an outdoor rating if you don’t.
Is there a waterproof light bulb?
Waterproof and waterproof bulbs can be found. The Osram-Sylvania Dot-It H2O lights are waterproof and can be used. Strip LEDs are both waterproof and weather resistant. The Silver CFSL series was one of the weatherproof bulbs.
Can you use indoor LED bulbs outside?
It’s a good idea to avoid using indoor light bulbs outside. There is a high chance of electric fires. If you have to use them, use indoor bulbs that are thick. The most appropriate type of light for outdoor use is the LEDs.
Can I use a regular light bulb in a flood light?
Any regular sockets with the same type of base can be used for floodlights. The E26 base is the same as a standard US light bulb sockets and is used in most indoor and outdoor lights. Whether the lights draw more power than normal bulbs.
What is a good wattage for outdoor lights?
The lowest watt for lights is 80. 40 watt bulbs can be used for low level areas. 40 to 80 watt bulbs are great for lighting up larger areas of the yard. The 80 watt bulbs are approved for sky lighting.
What is the best wattage for a porch light?
40 watt is the lowest watt for outdoor lights. It’s ideal for lighting pathways, garden beds, and other landscape areas with up to 40 watt. The 40 to 80 watt range is great for areas like the inside of the house.
Are LED lights good for outdoor use?
There are a lot of reasons why LEDs are the best for outdoor lighting. Better illuminate streets, sidewalks and parking lots with brighter light thanks to the use of LEDs. The lifespan of LEDs is up to 50,000 hours.
Can LED bulbs be used outdoors?
The good news is that LEDs are generally quite durable. As long as your LEDs are in place and have the proper seals, you can safely use them in outdoor environments. However, it is essential to know that LEDs have different characteristics.
3 Benefits of LED Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting adds natural beauty and energy to your home. It highlights the glamorous elements, illuminates the roads, and creates a charming atmosphere. You can also capture the nighttime beauty of a pool or body of water with LED underwater lights.
How to verify the quality of LED bulbs?
Here is a five-step specification checklist to ensure your lighting solution meets the minimum standards:
Buying guide of Outdoor Lighting
You should determine the answer for such questions as: where will you attach them to?
Final Words
These are some of our favorite lighting tips to answer the question Can LED bulbs be used outdoors? in the most comfortable way. Thank you for reading!
Why are outdoor lights good for security?
Some outdoor bulbs are great for security purposes, thanks to built-in motion sensors that will turn the light on if an object passes by. Others will illuminate the night with 360-degree light distribution, which makes it easier to see shadowy corners or the edge of your yard.
What temperature do LED bulbs work in?
Also, the bulb works best outdoors in areas with an overhead cover in temperatures ranging between 5-degrees to 102-degrees. The 7 Best Color-Changing LED Bulbs of 2021.
How many lumens does a Sunco flood light bulb have?
Brighten up your outdoor space with this Energy Star listed LED flood light bulb by Sunco. It emits 850 Lumens (equal to a 65-watt incandescent bulb), and it’s available in three different color temperatures: Soft white (2700k), cool white (4000k), and daylight (5000).
How many watts does a 40 watt LED bulb use?
You can replace your old 40-watt incandescent bulbs with this LED one by TCP that only uses 5 watts of energy. Unlike sources of white light, the bulb emits a pretty yellow glow that won’t attract pesky insects.
How many lumens does a security light need?
Security lights: 700 lume ns. Hardscape lights, such as outdoor patio lighting: 50 to 200 lumens, depending on the area being lit. Landscape lights: 50 to 300 lumens, depending on the area or object being lit. Motion sensor lights: 700 lumens. Floodlights: 700 to 1300 lumens, depending on the area or object being lit.
Do LED bulbs have lumens?
However, today’s LED bulbs are referenced in lumens, not in watts, leading to some confusion.
Can you use 90W bulbs in the sun?
Weatherproof, dimmable, and best of all mercury-free, this bulb is the perfect replacement for your 90W incandescent. You can rely on the sun during the daylight hours, but with the right light bulbs, you can extend your enjoyment of the yard or garden into the night.

Before You Start, Check Your Fixture
Incandescents – in Covered Locations
- Standard incandescent bulbs and flood lights can be used outside as long as they are not exposed to rain or other elements. Otherwise, you need to check your bulb’s packaging for an outdoor rating. Lighting Tip: Not all Christmas lights are created equal. Some incandescent or even LED mini light stringsare rated for indoor use only. Read the packaging before decking out …
Halogens – Make Sure They Are Protected
- Similar to incandescents, halogens can’t be used outside unless they have a heavy glass design to tolerate the thermal shock of rain water, like halogen PAR lamps. Another exception is halogens enclosed in outdoor rated fixtures. For example, MR bulbs in landscape floodlighting usually fit this description.