This strange problem is seen in many houses. Even after switching off, the LED bulb continues to glow with mild light. It does not burn completely, only a slight dim glow is visible. This problem was not visible in old bulbs, but after the introduction of LED, this complaint has become common. People wonder whether electricity is being wasted? In fact, even this small light consumes electricity slowly. This can be called phantom load or wastage due to wrong wiring. Let’s understand why this happens and how to fix it.
LED bulb burns with very little power. A lot of current was required to light the old bulb, but if the LED gets just a little current, it gives mild light. Even when the switch is off, sometimes a very small amount of current leaks in the wiring. This current is so low that the fan or tube light does not work, but the LED bulb starts burning dimly.
The most common reason is a small light or indicator on the switch. Many switches have neon bulbs or LEDs for night visibility. This small light keeps drawing a little electricity and the same current reaches the main LED bulb.
The second reason is the wiring of the house. When long wires pass near each other, induced voltage is generated in them. That is, if current is flowing in one wire, a slight electricity is generated in the other wire also. This problem also occurs if the neutral wire is not connected properly or the earthing is weak.
This light is not just a matter of appearance. This is called phantom load. That is, even when we think that the electricity is off, some electricity is still being wasted. One bulb does not make much difference, but if there are many LED bulbs in the house, the units can increase in a month.
This also becomes a small reason for slightly higher electricity bills. Wrong wiring not only causes wastage but sometimes can also cause the switch to overheat.
How can it be fixed?
It is not that difficult to fix it. The easiest way is to change the switch. If the switch has an indicator light, then install a simple switch without light. Sometimes the problem is solved just by changing the switch.
Another way is to install a small resistor or capacitor near the bulb holder. An electrician can do this work easily. It absorbs the extra current and the bulb gets completely extinguished.
If the wiring of the house is old then get the neutral and earthing checked. Sometimes wires from two different circuits are tied together, separating them also makes a difference. Be careful not to strip the wire yourself. Always get electrical work done by an experienced mechanic.
Adopt some other easy habits to save electricity. When leaving the room, make sure to turn off the switch. Do not install more light bulbs than necessary. Choose good quality ISI marked LED bulbs. Keep checking switches and holders regularly.
This small problem is not worth ignoring. A dimly lit bulb not only looks strange but also silently consumes electricity. By understanding the real reason and fixing it with simple methods, you can stop wastage of electricity. The lighting of the house should be completely under control and the bills should also be under control, just a little vigilance is needed. With proper wiring and a good switch, this hassle can end forever.
