Halogen bulbs - short life to be expected?

[GeeTee]

Since fitting 3 bulb ceiling lamps in my hall and landing (2 in the hall, 1 on the landing) I've noticed the bulb life seems really cr@p. Over 2 years now.

These fittings take 3 GU10 240V 50W bulbs each. I seem to be getting through bulbs at a silly speed, changing about 1 a week. So roughly each one is lasting 9 weeks.

The hall ones are on for about 3 - 4 hours a day max. The landing one is only on for max 30 mins a day - these ones do seem to go less frequently.

I've tried branded and shed's own brand with no difference.

Is this the expected life of these things or could there be another problem?

Only ask because the previous "standard" 100W bayonet bulbs seemed to last forever.

Thanks
Graham

 

[RF Lighting]

Have you touched the lamps with your bare fingers?

 

[Steve]

Can you measure the voltage at the lampholders?

If the hall lights are on for 3 hours at a time - ie. they aren't frequently switched, try CFL lamps. They will last longer, and dont dim when you turn on the shower.

As you can see they are 2cm longer, and may not fit all luminaires (without looking silly), but they spread their light so much better and wider, so appear brighter. About 5 times longer quoted life too
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In...hts_Index/Downlights_Energy_Saving/index.html

 

[securespark]

and may not fit all luminaires (without looking silly),

I can't fit all luminaires without looking silly, either...