Do Energy-Saving Light Bulbs Get Hot?

Yes energy saving light bulbs do get hot but not as hot as the traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs. There are 2 types of energy saving bulbs and they are CFL's (which are being phased out) and LED’s.

Heat Generation in Energy-Saving Bulbs

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL’s)

CFL’s are energy saving versions of the traditional incandescent bulbs and are used in homes and commercial areas.  

CFL’s use around 75% less energy than the traditional bulbs and of this 80% is converted to light and the remaining 20% is released as heat.

Light Emitting Diodes (LED’s)

Led’s are the most advanced and energy efficient form of domestic lighting at present.  They produce light when electricity passes through the diode.  Almost all the energy that a LED uses is converted into light and this makes them 80-90% more efficient than incandescent and halogen bulbs.

The surface of the visible part of the bulb remains relatively cool but sometimes warm to touch.

Is it Normal for Light Bulbs to Get Hot?

Yes, all light bulbs regardless of type will produce some amount of heat.

Do Light Bulbs Get Hot Enough to Start a Fire?

Incandescent Bulbs - This type of bulb is the highest fire risk as they operate at high temperatures.  If you place an incandescent bulb too close to paper or fabrics etc. it would be a fire hazard.  If you use too high of a wattage for the fitting it risks damage to the wiring and sockets.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL’s) - With CFL bulbs the operating temperature is generally not enough to cause a fire risk, however the risk comes from faulty ballasts and wiring and if they are put into fittings without proper ventilation.

LED’s - LED’s have the lowest fire risk as they generate very little heat and their operating temperatures are moderately low.  The most common concern with LED’s is poor quality components or misuse in sealed fixtures which could lead to overheating and premature failure but very rarely a fire.

What Type of Light Bulbs Don’t Get Hot?

There is not a light bulb that would be cold as they all convert some electrical energy into heat.  LED’s are the best at staying coolest and they generate the least heat.

The heatsink on a LED will feel warm to touch but the actual bulb surface and the light itself are a lot cooler than any other type of lighting .  This makes them ideal for fittings where heat build up is a concern.