LED Bulbs – Why Not for Use in Totally Enclosed Luminaires

bulbledlighting

I recently bought some nice inexepensive LED bulbs but I noticed the warning states: (see image below)

not for use in totally enclosed luminaires

I am guessing that it gets too hot but I find it interesting that it doesn't add that part to the warning text. I was wondering if it has something to do with it not performing well if it doesn't have air or something.

Also, I wonder if that means I can't use it in overhead lighting like the following: (Again I'm assuming you should not. It's totally enclosed, but I wasn't sure if it just meant small enclosed luminaires).
small luminaire

sylvania LED bulb

Best Answer

Yes, it is because of the heat buildup in enclosed fixtures, and no you should not use the bulb in that ceiling fixture you listed unless you are willing to accept shortened bulb life.

Your options are:

  1. Use the bulb in that fixture anyway and accept that they may burn out or dim prematurely
  2. Get LED bulbs that are approved for enclosed fixtures, e.g. many of the newer Cree and Philips bulbs. They will say on the packaging.
  3. Replace the fixture entirely with a LED fixture that doesn't have bulbs at all. E.g. this similar fixture from Home Depot.
  4. Use a CFL or old-fashioned incandescent bulb in that location and put the LEDs elsewhere.
Related Topic