Electrical question: light fixtures

[HardcoreClone]

So we ordered some new exterior light fixtures for our house. Our old ones fully enclosed the light bulb, but these new ones are "barn" style where the bulb is under the fixture but technically open to any elements that may blow up into it. Our house faces north.

My question, maybe a really dumb one, but I've never encountered this....Do I need to buy special outdoor bulbs? I don't know if they need to be better protected/waterproof? The site we bought the fixtures from just says 120v wattage, E26/medium bulb base.

Thanks in advance.

 

[mywayorcyway]

Short answer - yes. You're looking for wet rated outdoor bulbs.

 

[HardcoreClone]

Short answer - yes. You're looking for wet rated outdoor bulbs.

Thanks. I assume all the big box stores sell those.

 

[oldman]

I have fixtures like that too. i never knew they made special outdoor bulbs -- I always used the regular ones and never had any problems.

 

[Gonzo]

I have fixtures like that too. i never knew they made special outdoor bulbs -- I always used the regular ones and never had any problems.

Same here.

 

[HardcoreClone]

Same here.

Good to know. I'll see if the wet rated bulbs are much more expensive than normal. Thanks.

 

[Gorm]

I've used an old school early 2000s CFL bulb in my front light for the last 10 years. I doubt it was rated for outdoor use. Still works well.

 

[yowza]

I've used an old school early 2000s CFL bulb in my front light for the last 10 years. I doubt it was rated for outdoor use. Still works well.

Is it a red light?

 

[Gorm]

Is it a red light?

LMAO

 

[3GenClone]

I have a Philips Hue color-changing bulb installed in an exterior fixture and it's worked when the temps have been sub-zero.