Can I Use LiquidLEDs Bulbs in Enclosed Light Fixtures?
Some LiquidLEDs bulbs are not suitable for use in enclosed light fixtures. Using these bulbs in enclosed fittings can cause heat to build up around the bulb, which reduces the lifespan of the bulb significantly and may affect performance. In some cases it can also pose a safety risk.
What Is an Enclosed Fixture?
An enclosed fixture is any light fitting that surrounds the bulb and restricts airflow. Common examples include:
- Ceiling domes and flush-mount fixtures with a glass or plastic cover
- Outdoor lanterns and wall lights with sealed covers
- Recessed downlights with sealed housings
- Pendant lights with enclosed glass shades
- Bathroom vanity fixtures with closed globes
Open fixtures, such as exposed Edison-style pendants, open downlights, table lamps and floor lamps, allow airflow around the bulb and are generally suitable for all our products.
Products NOT Suitable for Enclosed Fixtures
The following LiquidLEDs products must not be used in enclosed light fixtures:
G4 Bi-Pin Bulbs
- 2W G4 12V AC/DC Bi-Pin (SKUs: F2D-G4-C-22K, F2D-G4-C-27K, F2D-G4-C-30K)
- 3W G4 12-24V AC/DC Bi-Pin (SKU: F3D-G4-C)
G9 Capsule Bulbs
- 5W G9 LED Bulb in Warm White (SKU: C2D3K-G9-C-27K)
GLS / A60 Bulbs
- 10W GLS A60 in Soft White 3000K (SKU: F1022-A60-C-30K)
- 12W GLS LED Bulb B22 Clear in Natural White
- 12W GLS LED Bulb E27 Clear in Natural White
G95 Globe Bulbs (all 12W variants)
- 12W G95 LED Globe E27 and B22, Clear and Matte Finish, in Soft White and Natural White
G125 Globe Bulbs (all 12W variants)
- 12W G125 LED Globe E27 and B22, Clear and Matte Finish, in Soft White and Natural White
Candle Bulbs (all 6W variants)
- 6W Candle LED Bulb E27, Clear in Warm White
- 6W Candle LED Bulb E27, Frost in Warm White
- 6W Candle LED Bulb E27, Clear in Natural White
- 6W Candle LED Bulb B22, Clear in Natural White
- 6W Candle LED Bulb B15, Frost in Warm White
Fancy Round Bulbs (all 6W variants)
- 6W Fancy Round G45 LED Bulb E27, Clear in Warm White
- 6W Fancy Round G45 LED Bulb E14, Frost in Warm White
Why Does Heat Matter?
LED filament bulbs generate heat during operation. In an open fitting, heat dissipates naturally into the surrounding air. In an enclosed fitting, heat becomes trapped around the bulb which causes:
- Significantly reduced bulb lifespan
- Dimming or flickering over time
- Potential failure of the LED driver or filament
- In extreme cases, a safety hazard
What Should I Do?
If your light fixture is enclosed, we recommend choosing one of our bulbs that is rated for enclosed fixtures. Please contact our team and let us know your fitting type and base type, and we will recommend the best option for your needs.
If you have already installed one of the above bulbs in an enclosed fitting and are experiencing early failure or flickering, please submit a warranty claim and our team will be happy to assist.