Is Modifying a Light Fixture Safe?

Safe Alternatives to get More Light from a Light Fixture and Why Light Fixture Modifications Could be Hazardous

Why Light Fixture Modifications Could be Hazardous
[ad#block]Electrical Question: Hi Dave. I have a regular lamp that is not giving me enough light but I like that it has an extension arm. My question is, if I replace the socket (where the light bulb screws in) with a tri-light socket will that allow me to use a higher wattage tri-light bulb. Will it work and is it safe? Thanks, Anita

This electrical question came from: Anita, a Homeowner from Truro, Canada

See more about Home Wiring for Canada

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Anita

Light Fixture Modifications Could be Hazardous

Light Fixture Safety

• Hi Anita, please be aware that every light fixture is manufactured and listed for safe use according to the original design. This will include testing of the types of materials that are used and how close they are to heat sources from the light bulbs or lamps that will be used.
• Typically all light fixtures have been listed with the Underwriters Laboratories and have a UL Listing certification. If the light fixture has been modified then the UL listing becomes void and the safety of the light fixture can not longer be assured, especially if the light socket has been replaced to allow for a larger and hotter  light bulb to be used which may cause the light fixture components to overheat and possibly cause a fire, and Anita, we sure would not want that to happen to you or anyone else for that matter!

Safe Options for More Light

• What you may want to consider is to see if there is a new type of  light bulb that produces more light but still be safe as a replacement for the original light bulb.
• Brighter lamps may include LED or CFL type lights that state that they are a safe replacement to use instead of the original light bulb.

RESOURCES

Lighting For The Home
Lighting Electrical Codes

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