With regular use, halogen tubes will eventually fail. When a failure occurs, you can safely change the halogen heater tubes. In this guide, we cover halogen heater bulb replacement. We also cover how to get the best the longest life out of your bulbs and why they may fail prematurely.
If you don’t already know, understanding how Halogen heaters operate would be a good idea.
Step-by-Step Guide To Halogen Heater Bulb Replacement
You can replace halogen heater bulbs independently because it is a simple procedure. A new halogen tube costs only around $10. Of note is that halogen heaters don’t need frequent tube changes as they have a lifespan of between 2,500 and 3,000 hours. If yours last significantly less than this, you may have an issue that needs to be addressed by a professional. Towards the bottom of the article is a list of reasons your tubes may fail early. Remember that replacing the unit with a new one may be a more economical option if you have a serious issue.
Now, let’s look at how to replace halogen heater tubes like a professional.
Safety notes:
- Halogen heaters use mains electricity that can cause fatal electric shocks
- Halogen heaters can be hot for some time after being turned off
- Follow the instructions below to mitigate these risks
- Only attempt the procedure if the tube is intact
Tools Required:
- Protective latex or vinyl gloves
- Screwdriver
Process:
Before you start changing halogen heater tubes, you must first turn off the heater. Next, unplug it from the socket to avoid electric shocks. Then, let the heater cool down completely.
Just a note before getting into the process details. Some heaters have a more straightforward method to replace the tubes. Before starting the process, check on the side of your heater for any panels that can be opened. If they are present, you are in luck and can unscrew these panels to access the halogen tubes.
Manufacturers use a variety of methods to secure the exterior of their heaters. As such treat the instructions for opening the heater as indicative of the process.
- After taking the precautions mentioned above, you can change the halogen heater tube. Take a screwdriver and unscrew all the screws on the front panel. Ideally, halogen heaters have around six screws. But your halogen heater may have more or fewer screws depending on the brand and model.
- While removing the screws, do not damage the tubes and heater. Always gently position your hand, so the screws or tube do not fall.
- Remove the front cover once you have removed all the screws. If your heater has a black grill inside, remove it as well. You should then see where the tube attaches to the socket.
- To remove the tube, press it lightly into the socket. Then gently turn it counterclockwise opposite to you. Keep a firm grip on the tube while removing it, so it doesn’t fall. Carefully remove the bulb from the heater without damaging it and dispose of it appropriately.
- Place the new tube in the same socket.
- Lightly press the new tube into the socket and then turn it clockwise. Be careful at this step because a little mistake can damage the tube. Keep your hand below the tube while installing it so it doesn’t fall. Please do not force it, as the tube may break.
- Wipe all tubes in the heater with a lint-free rag to ensure they are all clean.
- Replace the front panel and secure it in place with the screws.
- Plug the heater back into the electrical socket and check if the heater is working correctly.
Below is a YouTube video showing a halogen heater bulb replacement to help you understand the process better. Keep reading below it for tips on maximising the life of your tubes and why they may fail.
How to Get Maximum Life from Your Halogen Heater Tubes
Follow these steps to prevent halogen heater tubes from failing prematurely:
#1 Pay for Quality
Be bold and pay for good quality tubes because cheap halogen heater tubes will not last as long as a quality product.
The glass used in cheap halogen heater tubes is often fragile, and a slight change in power can damage them. Thus, it would be best if you always chose quality tubes that offer better value.
#2 Keep Moisture Away
Try to keep moisture away from your halogen heaters, as it can reduce the lifespan of bulbs. In some cases, moisture can even blow tubes instantly. Also, when replacing halogen heater tubes, keep a paper towel handy to remove any moisture or other contaminants that may be placed on the new tube as you handle them.
#3 Turn Off the Heater When Not in Use
When you are not using the halogen heater, it is best to turn it off. Halogen heater bulbs can undergo thermal strain when left on for a long time. Not only will you save on replacement tubes, but you will also save on your electricity bill. Unattended heaters can be a fire risk.
#4 Check Connections and Power Outlet
You can regularly check your power outlet with a voltmeter. But if you don’t have this instrument, ask your electrician to do it. Sometimes, outlets might provide an incorrect voltage to operate the halogen heater bulb.
Besides using a voltmeter, you can directly check the tubes for damage or corrosion. These things can affect the performance of halogen heater tubes.
#5 Avoid Flammable Liquids
Lastly, you should avoid keeping flammable liquids near halogen heaters. You must not touch the bulb if your hands contain any flammable liquids. Other than damaging the tube, you may also start a fire. The heat emitted from halogen heaters may ignite the fluid leading to tube damage and fire.
How Long Can Halogen Heater Tubes Last?
Halogen heater tubes typically last for 2,500 to 3,000 hours of use. The actual lifespan of your bulb might depend on the brand and type of halogen heater you have. In addition, it also depends on the materials that your halogen heater is made of.
Not to mention, cheaper halogen heater bulbs tend to fail earlier than higher-priced bulbs. Higher-priced bulbs often provide better value.
Reasons Why Halogen Bulbs Blow
Are you wondering why your halogen heater tubes fail? Here are some possible reasons:
#1 Handling the Bulb Incorrectly
If your halogen heater bulbs often fail, there is a chance that you are not handling them correctly. For instance, you might be touching it with bare hands.
New halogen heater tubes must always be handled while wearing gloves because the oil on your hand leaves a film on the tube’s surface. While the heater is turned on, this film causes a hot spot in the tube, leading to early failure. Even if you wear gloves while installing a tube, we recommend thoroughly cleaning it with a clean, lint-free rag after it is installed and before use.
#2 Hairline Cracks Caused During Transportation
Hairline cracks on glass casement can occur during transportation, damaging the tubes. Poor handling may cause the halogen heater bulb to shatter.
#3 An Electrical Surge
A sudden increase in electrical mains voltage (called an electrical surge) can blow halogen heater bulbs. If this happens, the tube may break almost instantly because halogen heater bulbs are not designed to handle the surge. Electrical surges are a common occurrence in many areas. They are of particular risk during electrical storms.
#4 Incorrect Wattage
Another common factor that can break a halogen heater bulb is incorrect wattage. Using the wrong replacement tubes can make them fail quickly.
So, whenever you need to replace the damaged halogen heater tube, always check for the wattage of the tube being supplied. This way, you can avoid such failures.
Check your heater’s manual for the correct tube specifications. You can also search for suitable tubes using your heater’s model and the words ‘halogen tube replacement’.
#5 Wiring Faults
Faulty wiring is another possible cause of damaged halogen heater bulbs. While it’s rare, it can occur. Call a professional to check the wiring if your halogen heater tube frequently fails.
Conclusion
You can quickly and safely change your failed halogen heater bulbs by following the abovementioned steps. While choosing a replacement tube, check the voltage and wattage to match your halogen heater. Always purchase good quality tubes.
However, if the tube glass is broken, it’s better to call a professional. Replacing shattered tubes adds significant risk and is something that requires specialist skills to undertake. Those skills are necessary to avoid causing yourself an injury.
