Since light bulbs vary in many ways – from the color they emit to the amount of energy or wattage they use – you will need to match the correct light bulb to your light fixture. If you use the wrong wattage not only is it a fire hazard, but you risk ruining your brand new, beautiful light fixture.

Check the maximum wattage of the light fixture. This can be found on either the box or the light fixture itself on a sticker. Remember, wattage is the indication of how much power a bulb consumes, not the amount of light it generates.

If your light fixture states maximum of 60 watts, it is because it has been tested to operate safely with no more heat than is produced by a 60 watt light bulb. If you put a 100 wattage light on a 60 watt light fixture, you risk: premature bulb failure; insulation failure on the wiring; heat damage to the fixture components; and failure of the fixture wires. Insulation failure on the wiring is extremely dangerous because it is one of the most common causes of a fire.

If your light fixture does not state the wattage, the best thing to do is call your local Mister Sparky technician to troubleshoot the problem.