130v Light Bulbs Vs 120v
The life of a bulb is roughly the ratio of rated volts operating volts to the 6th power.
130v light bulbs vs 120v. 130v bulbs however are more resistant to power surges and will last longer that 120v bulbs. The cons are lower lumens output not as bright and lower color temperature. 120 volts is commonly referred to as line voltage by electricians and other industry experts. As discussed briefly in an earlier article the short technical version goes like this.
I say theoretical because almost all homes in the us operate on only 110 120 volts. That bulb at that firehouse is likely at a much reduced voltage. Cooler burning bulb less energy use longer life and better handling of voltage surges. Then he recommended we switch from 120v to 130v light bulbs and suggested this would most likely solve the problem.
Yes a 220 volt light bulb will run on a 120 volt circuit but at 1 4 of the wattage that the light bulb is rated at. You can use a 130v light bulb where a 120v bulb is indicated but you will not achieve rated power nor will you achieve rated brightness. 120v bulbs are designed to be the most efficient at that voltage. The 130v bulbs will consume less than rated watts and produce even less lumens than the ratio of reduced wattage would indicate.
For example 120v and 130v bulbs are interchangeable and the pros in using a 130 volt bulb are. Most of us never even look at that numerical distinction when buying bulbs. A 100 watt light bulb on 220 would would be equal to a 25 watt light bult on 120. This is the voltage that travels to your home from your local utility substation.
The standard line voltage in north america is 120 volts 120v. 130 volt halogen and incandescent light bulbs are manufactured with a thick filament designed to withstand a theoretical 130 volts. Run on line voltage. The main feature of 130v light bulbs is lifetime.
If not call him again he d be happy to look at it. 120 volts is the standard voltage supply for american homes.