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
Heres an interesting side story: A few years ago I replaced all the switches and wall plugs in the house because we changed the color to white. This place was built in 1979, so the originals were a bit different than what is available today. I did not buy the "pemium" ones at home depot because I needed so many. Ever since this, it has been very common to blow a light bulb upon flicking the switch if you do it too fast. I can even blow them on demand if I use the switch accordingly. Turning it on gently... no problem.
I have this issue in Austin. My voltage is about 127 volts. I buy 130v bulbs from Home Depot....
I have this issue in Austin. My voltage is about 127 volts.
09-10-09: Jfrech

127V is too high... For residential customers the utility company is supposed to keep the voltage with-in (+ or -) 5%. 120V being the base line.

You should contact your utility company and ask them to check your incoming voltage. It may be a simple fix of moving the taps on their transformer to lower the voltage.
Jea48 and/or Almarg,

Can I check the voltage myself with a multimeter? If so how?

Abucktwoeighty,
To save money the construction company simply didn't supply any lighting fixtures at all!