How to Correctly Treat and Install New Headlight Bulbs
Are your headlights burning out more quickly than you believe they should? There are plenty of causes for why your headlights may be ending their life early. Once you identify the issue you can save yourself money because you do not need to replace or change the bulbs as frequently.
Are You Using Your Headlight Bulbs For Long Periods?
The typical expected lifespan of a standard halogen headlight bulb is around 350 to 400 hours, so if you are driving a lot during the long winter nights or even if you keep your headlights on during the day it is possible that your bulbs could only last 2 to 3 months.
You should know that upgraded xenon light bulbs will work for 200 hours because they are meant to produce a higher power of light for projection purposes. Drivers who use these lights for a long duration will find they need to replace them with longer living headlight bulbs to avoid the frequent changes.
Heavy duty components for headlights, which last longer than regular halogen bulbs, provide you the same performance as halogen bulbs.
Do You Wear Gloves to Change the Headlight Bulbs?
Headlight bulbs are touchy when it comes to your bare hands because you have oils on them which can be left behind on the glass bulb. This oil will create a hotspot on the halogen bulb where it is illuminated by light. This hotspot then burns more quickly thus a blown bulb. You should wear latex gloves when changing your cars headlight bulbs.
Moisture or Vibration: Are Your Bulbs Affected?
Manufacturers of headlight bulbs use a reinforced glass in the construction process so they will be able to handle the demands of the road. However, a thermal shock can occur if water gets into the headlight connectors or into the bulb itself. It is important to check that your bulb is protected in the holder from bumps, jolts, or moisture that could harm the filament.
Is Your Wiring System Correct?
When installing the bulbs make sure that the electrical connectors from the lights power lead are firmly joined to the metal connectors on the base of the headlight bulbs, otherwise it is easy to get a short circuit and blow the bulb.
You also want to check that the alternator is not providing too much power to the battery, which offers a higher voltage than the bulb can handle. Volts for a headlight bulb are 13.2 as a maximum.
Are You Buying Good Quality Headlight Bulbs?
Whilst cheaper car bulbs may seem like a good idea, they normally lack the high quality and precision components used by the leading manufactures like Osram and Philips, and will not last as long. High quality bulbs will be marked with the E1 mark, which indicates they have undergone the most rigorous testing and quality standards.
To avoid the hassle and expense of needing to replace your headlights too frequently you should aim to always install high quality Car Bulbs. Whilst high quality bulbs may cost a premium you will save in the long run as your Headlight Bulbs will last longer and produce a better light quality.
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