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Don't use Compact Flourescent Lights in your Garage Door Openers

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with Jay Kaiser (Exit Mountain Realty)

This is one tip I recently recieved from a home inspector that I am glad I got. I have been on a mission at home replacing all incandescent lights with CFL bulbs and was about to change the opener bulbs. Thanks to Altamont Inspections, LLC for some great tips.

There have been several warnings concerning the use of compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs in garage door openers. Most garage door openers use electronic switching similar to a dimmer switch to operate the light bulbs and it is not compatible with CFLs, even CFLs that are supposed to be "ruggedized" or dimmable. This switching incompatibility coupled with the inherent vibration of a garage door opener can damage the electronic circuits and can cause the electric motor to overheat to a potentially dangerous level. Neither the Genie Company, a company which makes door openers (call them at 800-354-3643), nor the General Electric Company, a CFL manufacturer, recommend the use of CFLs in garage door openers.  CFL Light Bulb

John Rakoci
Eagle Realty - North Myrtle Beach, SC
North Myrtle Beach Coastal Carolinas

Now-- that is a great tip for the 'greenies'. My electric company and builder provided a nice assortment of CFL bulbs. I have found a use for a few- they are still not a favorite.

It is suggested they not be used in 3 way lamps too..

Oct 07, 2009 08:14 AM
Jay & Jewell Kaiser
Jay Kaiser (Exit Mountain Realty) - Brevard, NC

I have had concerns my self with 3 way and dimmable. But not researched the manufacturer sites for the safety aspect which should be first most. If the place burns down then saving energy is was a real waste!

Oct 07, 2009 08:53 AM