Xenon Headlights, The Blue Behind You

Posted: Nov 24, 2009 |Comments: 0 | Views: 197 |

Are you ever driving down the highway and you notice some really cool, blue tinted lights coming up behind you? Those are xenon headlights. While xenon bulbs are far more expensive, they last up to three times longer than an ordinary halogen bulb. They typically last five to ten years or 3,000 hours while normal bulbs only last up to 1,000 hours maximum. Because the produce a light that is three times more vibrant, using far less energy, xenon bulbs are becoming increasingly popular in homes. Many people are now installing xenon lights for cabinet lighting, desk lamps, and outdoor patio lighting.

So what is xenon? Xenon is a rare gas that is similar to argon and krypton. Since this gas create such a high heat, it must be encased in a crystal bulb in order to produce light. It does not require the use of a filament. What happens is an igniter excites the xenon which is in the bulb, thus creating a spark in two electrodes and forming an electrical arc between the two. Then, the ionized gas produces a plasma charge which in turn creates the intense light. Though the initial charge is somewhat high, maintaining the light requires a very low energy level. When it comes to being environmentally friendly xenon headlights prove to make any car greener.

There are two different types of xenon headlights. Upgraded bulbs are bulbs that are 90% brighter than standard halogens and are super easy to install. High intensity xenon headlights, or HID xenon bulbs produce a light that is 300% brighter than a typical halogen bulb. These however, should be installed by a professional electrician. These type of xenon headlights are a little more pricey and may cost up to $200.

Because of the high heat they produce, one should use caution when dealing with xenon light bulbs. When operating, the pressure inside of an HID bulb is at an extremely high heat, reaching as high as 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit. To remove it from its assembly may cause an explosion. Likewise, an HID bulb should always be positioned in a horizontal manner to prevent overheating. Servicing your headlights should not be done in wet weather do to the high voltages which could cause electrical burns, shock, or electrocution. The ballasts get extremely hot so one should avoid touching them. The oil that is on your dingers could cause the bulb to crack or break. Handle these lights by wearing gloves or make sure your hands are cleaned with alcohol before contact.

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