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Light bulbs are constanly burning out

Frequently, when I switch light-switches on, I burn out light bulbs and at times a breaker jumps.

I am preparing to purchase new tube amps, (I currently have a ss amp). I am worried that these surges may cause damage to the new tube gear.

I live in a newly constructed building (4yrs old) which is shared with 5 other tenants. Throughout the building in the hallways and such, there are always burnt out bulbs. Bulbs last less than 6 month on average (incandescent, halogen and fluorescent)

This seems to occur randomly, last time was in the evening 8pm, whereas the time before it was at 4:45 am.

Need I be worried?
What can be done to solve the root of the problem?
What can be done to mitigate the risks? I already have a surge protector but I only have my Pre-amp, TT & TV plugged into it. I find the amp sounds better straight in the wall.
nick_sr
mlsstl
1,407 posts
 
I'd start by calling your utility. They have monitoring devices they can plug into your system that'll record voltage fluctuations from low voltage to spike. If they exist, it then becomes a matter of finding the cause, which could be anything from too small a transformer on the pole, an inadequate drop loop, wiring issues internal to the building or a device that you or a neighbor are using.

You may end up talking to the condo or apartment management, but I suspect they might not be real responsive.

Good luck.
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Has someone there measured the line voltage? If not, that would seem to be the logical first step. If the voltage is too high, that would certainly explain the frequent bulb burn-outs, if not the breaker trips, and perhaps the power company could do something about it.

Regards,
-- Al
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
The good news is that light bulbs are much more sensitive to overvoltage than most other electrical equipment. They are giving you a warning...like the canary in the coal mine. You should get the problem fixed.
jea48
4,313 posts
 
Nick_sr,

I would suggest you contact the landlord or building manager.

The problem could be a loose service entrance neutral conductor.

Have you ever noticed all of a sudden some lights get brighter at times while other go dim?

First call should be to an electrical contractor. The electrician will check line to neutral voltages at the main service. The electrician will determine if the problem is on the load side or line side of the meter/s. And if on the line side of the meter/s he will contact the utility company's service department.
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