What Is Considered an Enclosed Light Fixture? 4 FAQs Answered

What Is Considered an Enclosed Light Fixture

Don’t you feel frustrated when your car light fogs up? All watery and moist inside. And sometimes that causes the bulb to burst. 

To avoid this inconvenience in your home, especially in moist areas like the bathroom and shower, there are cased light bulb fixtures. You will even find them in your yard and garden. 

These are called enclosed light fixtures. They not only amplify the light further but also protect the bulb from overheating, and accidental bursts. 

But there are a lot of fixtures that are considered enclosed light fixtures even though they are not totally sealed. And we are going to talk about those today. 

What Is an Enclosed Light Fixture

As we have already said, any light fixture that has a cover over or around the light bulb is called an enclosed light fixture. While indoor enclosed light fixtures can have gaps in them, outdoor ones are most of the time sealed shut. 

This is done so that no moisture can enter the fixture and compromise the light bulb. This is a genius move, as the outdoor environment is always prone to harsh climate change. 

Indoor light fixtures on the other hand don’t need to be waterproof. But sometimes they do, especially in bathrooms and showers.

Recessed light fixtures, tables, or bedside lamps with an enclosed frame around the bulb are also enclosed light fixtures. Though they have an opening on the bottom, they still keep the bulb inside an enclosed area.

The main difference between a normal light fixture and an enclosed light fixture is the light bulb. Enclosed light fixtures have a different type of light bulb rather than traditional ones. 

What Type of Light Bulbs Are Used in Enclosed Light Fixture

If you know a  little bit of the science behind a light bulb, you will be aware that light bulbs don’t perform well in high heat. And a moist environment will bring a cherry on top. Ending the bulb’s life quicker than ever.

Incandescent, CFL and fluorescent bulbs work smoothly in an enclosed light fixture. As they have head dissipating technology built in. 

For LED lights, on the other hand, you will need to get the ones built for enclosed light fixtures. Otherwise, regular ones will get their chips destroyed. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I put LED light bulbs in enclosed fixtures?

Yes. You can put LED light bulbs that say “For enclosed light fixture” on their package in an enclosed light fixture. Regular LED bulbs don’t have the heat reduction tech built into them and will not last long. 

Why do some LED bulbs say not for enclosed fixtures?

Regular LED bulbs that are inexpensive don’t have heat reduction technology built into them. They are for open light fixtures and don’t deal with heat well. That is why they say not for enclosed fixtures on their level. 

Is a lamp an enclosed fixture?

If the lamp has the lighting enclosed in the surrounding support, then the lamp is an enclosed fixture. Open-faced lamps are not enclosed fixtures. Meaning if the light bulb is exposed, then it won’t be considered an enclosed light fixture. 

What type of light bulbs can be used in enclosed fixtures?

You can use incandescent, halogen, and CFL bulbs with ease in an enclosed light fixture. There is no need to worry about their heating issue as they are built to withstand the heat. But for LED bulbs, you will need to be careful. Regular inexpensive LED bulbs that don’t say “For enclosed fixture” should not be used in an enclosed light fixture. Only the “For enclosed Fixture” leveled LED should be used in an enclosed light fixture. 

Conclusion

Enclosed light fixtures are an effective way to broaden your light bulb life. At the same time get the most brightness and amplification with low electrical usage. But choosing the right type of bulb makes it all come together. Always go for the “For enclosed fixture” level on LED bulbs. Otherwise, regular LED bulbs will cost you a fortune in the end. 

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