UV light bulbs can be used in a regular lamp. However, there are some conditions that need to be met while using a UV bulb in a regular lamp. Here are the things you should consider doing:
- You must look at the box of the bulb to see the amperes of current required for the bulb to glow. It is because excess power from the lamp can lead to the bulb burning out whereas deficiency of power will not allow the bulb to glow properly.
- You should check the material of the base of the lamp. If it gets too hot, the plastic wires may melt and cause serious hazards.
- The wires that anchor the lamp should be non-flammable as it may again cause serious hazards.
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What are the Types of UV Light Bulbs
There are mainly three types of UV light bulbs. Each of these light bulbs is designed to serve a predefined set of purposes. Here is a handy guide to help you understand the difference between the three types of UV light bulbs.
1. Blacklight Blue (BLB)
The glow-in-the-dark kind of light bulbs available in the market belongs to this category of UV bulbs. The wavelength of these light bulbs lies in the region between 370 nm-400nm and glow in purple color. These are not dangerous to the health if handled with proper care such as gloves. These are used for the following purposes.
- Protection against theft
- Nightclubs
- Detection of forged currency
- To detect stains on the carpets
- Nail lamps
2. Blacklight
These types of UV light bulbs emit wavelengths in the region between 350 nm-370 nm and illuminate in a shade of blue. It is important to handle these light bulbs with care and ensure safe disposal. Some of the uses of blacklight light bulbs are,
- Attracting bugs
- Suntanning
- Polymerization process
3. Germicidal
The germicidal UV bulbs are dangerous to human health if not handled with extra care. They emit shorter wavelengths in the region between 200 nm-280 nm. The shorter wavelengths emitted by these light bulbs are effective in killing the DNA of microorganisms. These light bulbs are not designed for usage at home. They should be kept away from the skin and eyes. Germicidal UVC lamps are used in the following areas.
- Treatment of water
- Disinfection
- Sterilization
- Sanitation of food
Light Bulbs for Different Lamps and Lights
The lamps and fixtures are designed to serve several purposes. However, while choosing the light bulbs, it is important to consider the primary function to be served by the fixture. Here’s a quick guide to get a basic understanding of the light bulbs for different lamps and light fixtures.
1. Floor and Table Lamps
Halogen bulbs are an ideal choice if you wish to create a warm glow in all directions. They save up to 30% energy as compared to incandescent bulbs. Besides, CFL bulbs are good for task lighting as they are easy on the eyes.
2. Recessed and Mounted Ceiling Lights
Recessed and Mounted Ceiling lights are used for ambient lighting. As these are used for longer durations, the best option is LED light bulbs. LED light bulbs are eco-friendly and save up to 75% electricity. Besides, they have a longer life. Therefore, these light bulbs cut off the hassle of changing bulbs every now and then.
3. Pendant Lights
Pendant lights are commonly used for lighting up the task areas in halls, kitchen, and dining rooms with high ceilings. While LED light bulbs are a big NO for illuminating such light fixtures, CFLs and halogen light bulbs are preferred to solve the purpose here.
4. Chandeliers
Incandescent light bulbs in the shape of candle, globe, or flame are perfect to put in the light fixtures of chandeliers. As these massive fixtures are often used to cover up empty space in the hallways, entryways, and dining rooms, incandescent light bulbs provide warmth and coziness to the environment. Besides, LED light bulbs can also be used inside these large fixtures.
5. Wall lights
The walls mounted fixtures and lamps are often used to adorn the walls of the offices and homes to light up the aura. In these wall-mounted fixtures, candle and flame-shaped compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) or incandescent bulbs are a great option to use. These types of light bulbs reflect an ancient vibe.
6. Outdoor lights
Considering the geographical location, compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) are not ideal for lighting the outdoors. It is because they get heated up too early. On the other hand, halogen incandescent light bulbs and LED light bulbs turn out to be suitable options for illuminating the hallways, decks, and patios. LED light bulbs work extremely well for long durations of illumination and conserve energy.
7. Edison lights
Edison light bulbs can be put into any kind of fixtures and lamps available in the market. In the growing industry of design and lighting, Edison light bulbs are gaining huge fame for imparting a vintage look to the overall ambiance of a place. The filaments of these light bulbs glow in a subtle orange color which looks absolutely warm through the clear glass of the bulb.
Conclusion
You can put a UV light in a regular lamp if it meets the requirements. It needs to have the right power output for the bulb, and the lamp can’t get too hot. While a regular lamp CAN be used with UV lights, it’s better and safer to use the correct lamp that is designed to be used with UV light bulbs.