December 19, 2010 By ©2007-2012Author - Licensed Electrical Contractor Filed under 220 volt light fixture

2 Comments

Replacing a 220 Volt Light Bulb with 120 Volt

Replacing a 220 Volt Light Bulb with 120 Volt

 

Selecting a 120 Volt Light Bulb for a 220 Volt Fixture

Question: On a trip to Korea, I bought a wooden decorative lamp. The salesman gave me a little plug to fit over the Korean plug so that I can plug it in here, but he also told me that I’d need to change the bulb. It came with a little 10 w bulb. I believe they use 220 V electricity in Korea, and we use 110 V here in most outlets, right? Is this lamp safe to use? and what am I looking for in a bulb? Do I just need to find one that’s 20 w? or are there other issues?

This electrical question came from: Mark, a Homeowner from Ellsworth, Maine.
See more about Electrical Wiring for Maine

Additional Comments: Great site. I’m happy I came across it.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Mark.
Mark, purchase a bulb that has the same base and watt output. You could use the existing 220 volt bulb but it will be half as bright as if it were plugged into 200 volts.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

220 Volt Wiring Diagram

Electrical Safety

electrical outlet wiring
outlet-wiring
Wiring Electrical Outlet for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.

For more information about Other Electrical Issue
Other Electrical Issue
Other Electrical Issue
Other Electrical Issue
Home Electrical Wiring Issues

This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical


Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all projects.
For Best Results Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor in Your Area

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Comments

2 Responses to “Replacing a 220 Volt Light Bulb with 120 Volt”
  1. Dave Rongey says:
    March 28, 2011 at 11:35 pm

    Hi Anne,
    Yes, the wire size should be fine, in fact because the light fixture will be used for 220 volts the wire size is about twice the size that is necessary. The higher the voltage the smaller the wire size. No need to change the wire size, it will be fine.
    Enjoy your light fixture.
    Dave

  2. Anne says:
    March 27, 2011 at 1:23 pm

    I bought a lamp in the US (120 volt) and brought it back to Denmark (220 volt).
    I am aware that I should change the light bulp but is it safe to use the wire made for 120 volt in 220 volt?


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