MR11 Bulbs

What is a MR11?

A MR 11 halogen light bulb is basically the same as a typical incandescent light, except that it uses halogen gas to increase the life of the tungsten on the filament. This means that halogen lamps last longer than a normal incandescent, which can save you on the cost of purchasing new lamp.

When stating that a halogen light bulb is an MR bulb, you are saying that the glass used inside is multifaceted. Because of this, the MR halogen gives a more concentrated dose of light when turned on. The title MR 11, to put it simply, describes the size of the halogen lamp that you are using. To determine the size of your bulb, measure the diameter at its largest point. A MR 11 halogen is eleven eighths of an inch in diameter, or almost one and a half inches. They also have a G4 base which has two prongs coming out of the bottom of the lamp. A light bulb of this size will produce ample light for nearly any room or workspace.

How to Change an Halogen Lamp

Because halogens are considered a type of incandescent, it is normally just as simple to change an halogen as it is to change any other type of light bulb. You simply need your new halogen bulb and a ladder. Please make sure that you are using a ladder that is tall enough to be safe when performing this task. Ladders, such as step stools, that are too short can cause painful accidents.

Before you change any sort of light bulb, you should always make sure that all electricity to the light fixture is turned off. This will prevent you from burns, which is very important, as halogens are very hot in comparison to LED's and traditional incandescent. Make sure the glass is cool before you remove it, and be wary of any cracks as well. There are many types of bases for these lamps. If you have never changed the bulb before, you should always check your old base before you buy another one. If you buy a replacement with the wrong base, it won't fit into the fixture, and you'll have to return it. If possible, you should have your old bulb on hand when you purchase a new one, and you can even take a few measurements to ensure that you're not wasting time and money on something that won't work.

Screw bases are the most popular type of base for incandescent. Halogen lamps often utilize this type of base bot not the MR11, you will have to push the lamp into the socket. Two pin base light bulbs are just as easy to replace as screw base. You simply have to pull the old one very gently to remove it from the fixture. You then push the new bulb just as gently until it clicks into place. No matter which type of base you are dealing with, you must always be very careful with them. They are very fragile and easily broken. Please take care when replacing all light bulbs. Follow all safety precautions both when using your ladder and when actually changing it. A painful fall or a broken bulb are both unnecessary and inconvenient.