CFL failure?
#1
09-27-18, 05:40 AM
CFL failure?
I had a CFL flicker and make a crackle noise upon turning it on. Tried it again the next day and it did the same thing. However, once I toggled the switch again it became stable. I immediately tried it in a different fixture and it appeared OK. I am 99.9S% sure the wiring at the switches and light are correct and tight.
The bulb itself is old, discolored base and the spiral glass is loose a bit from the base.
The reason I am asking is I never seen a bulb do this.
Do they usually fail completely or is it possible for a failing bulb to become intermittent like this?
The bulb itself is old, discolored base and the spiral glass is loose a bit from the base.
The reason I am asking is I never seen a bulb do this.
Do they usually fail completely or is it possible for a failing bulb to become intermittent like this?
#2
09-27-18, 06:12 AM
Member
It's not uncommon for them to be internment in operation. Many of the cheap LED flashlights will see this phenomenon. After awhile a few of the diodes will dim or not light. I had a fan LED bulb do this. It would flicker and go out several times before staying on. If the LED is not meant for totally enclosed luminary, it may contribute to the failure of the diodes. Usually, it's not a safety issue, but if I see or hear crackling, I would discard the unit.
#3
09-27-18, 09:12 AM
Screw in bulbs might work loose in the socket and crackling (a spark) occurs usually where the tip hits the tab in the middle of the "bottom" of the socket. Minute vibrations including from a passing truck outside or even air currents may move the bulb slightly and a connection may improve or degrade randomly.
So just discarding a bulb that crackles is not the first thing you should do.
So just discarding a bulb that crackles is not the first thing you should do.
#4
09-27-18, 10:27 AM
Member
I have had a couple of CFL bulbs fail as you described. Some were within warranty and free replacements were provided. Look on the base of the bulb for an 800 number or website info.
If I have to replace a CFL now, I use LED in its place.
If I have to replace a CFL now, I use LED in its place.
