Why Your Lights Keep Blowing: Common Causes and Fixes

For Leeds area homeowners and landlords, understanding the causes can save time, money, and stress — and prevent potentially dangerous faults from going unnoticed.

In this article, the expert electricians at Duravault in Leeds explain the most common reasons light bulbs blow, what you can do to fix the problem, and when it’s time to call in a professional.

1. Low-Quality Bulbs

Not all light bulbs are made equal. Cheaper, low-quality bulbs often have thinner filaments and poor manufacturing standards, making them more likely to blow.

Fix: Invest in high-quality LED bulbs from reputable brands. While they cost slightly more upfront, they last far longer and use less energy, saving you money in the long run.

2. Loose Connections in the Fitting

A bulb needs a secure connection to the fitting for electricity to flow smoothly. If the connection is loose, electricity can “arc” across the gap, creating heat that burns out the bulb prematurely.

Fix: Turn off the power and check that the bulb is screwed in properly. If the fitting itself feels loose or damaged, it may need repair or replacement by a qualified electrician.

3. Faulty Light Switches

A worn or faulty switch can cause fluctuations in current, shortening the lifespan of bulbs. This is especially common with dimmer switches that aren’t designed for use with LED bulbs.

Fix: If you suspect the switch, call a qualified electrician to replace it with a modern, compatible version.

4. Overheating Issues

If a light fitting doesn’t allow heat to escape, bulbs can overheat and fail. This is more common with enclosed fittings or when using higher-wattage bulbs than recommended.

Fix: Always check the maximum wattage rating of your fitting. Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs that produce far less heat.

5. Electrical Surges

Small power surges happen regularly in every property, but larger or frequent surges can blow bulbs quickly. These can be caused by faulty appliances, wiring issues, or problems with the electricity supply.

Fix: If multiple bulbs or appliances are affected, you may need an electrician to test your wiring and consider installing surge protection.

6. Old or Damaged Wiring

If your home’s wiring is outdated or deteriorating, it can cause inconsistent voltage supply. This not only blows bulbs but also poses a serious fire risk.

Fix: An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) will highlight wiring issues. Rewiring or targeted repairs may be necessary to make the property safe.

7. Vibrations and Movement

In certain locations — for example, ceiling fans, stairwells, or near heavy-footfall areas — constant vibration can shorten the life of bulbs by damaging their filaments.

Fix: Choose “rough service” bulbs or durable LEDs designed to withstand vibration.

When to Call an Electrician

While some causes (like poor-quality bulbs or loose fittings) are simple fixes, recurring blown bulbs can be a sign of a deeper electrical problem. Call a professional if:

• Multiple bulbs blow in different rooms
• You notice flickering or dimming across several lights
• There are burning smells or scorch marks around fittings
• Your property has old or untested wiring

How Duravault Can Help

At Duravault, our experienced Leeds based electricians can quickly diagnose and fix the root cause of recurring lighting issues. Whether it’s replacing a faulty switch, repairing wiring, or carrying out a full safety inspection, we ensure your home’s electrics are safe, efficient, and reliable.

✅ NICEIC-approved electricians
✅ Expertise in both modern and older properties
✅ Fast response for urgent electrical faults
✅ Clear, upfront pricing

Conclusion

If your lights keep blowing, don’t ignore it — it’s often a warning sign of a bigger issue. While swapping out bulbs may offer a temporary fix, the real solution is identifying and addressing the underlying cause.

👉 Contact Duravault today to book an electrical inspection and keep your home’s lighting safe, efficient, and long-lasting.