When an office needs lighting replacement, it's important to note whether the bulbs are intended for indoor or outdoor use. Outdoor light bulbs have changed even more. Generally, they are interchangeable for indoor and outdoor use. In contrast, indoor lights are not designed to withstand outdoor temperature changes. Learn which bulbs are suitable for indoor or outdoor use, or both.

First, the best way to determine if a light bulb is safe for outdoor use is to know the UL rating. Typically, most lighting fixtures are rated and tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Additionally, UL has specific ratings for specific locations. Here are the different locations and corresponding UL ratings:

UL Listed- Dry Locations: labeled: “UL Listed”

includes living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways, kitchens, and most bathroom areas

UL Listed- Damp Locations: labeled “Suitable for Damp Locations” or “Suitable for Wet Locations”

includes bathtubs, showers, indoor pool areas, utility rooms

UL Listed- Wet Locations: labeled “Suitable for Wet Locations”

used both wet indoor and outdoor locations

includes gazebos, walkways, open patio,s and decks, outdoor dining areas

Which types of bulbs can be used indoors, outdoors, or both:

LED lights: for indoor and outdoor use

Compact fluorescent bulbs: for indoor and outdoor use

Check the maximum temperature the bulb can withstand in packaging for outdoor use

Incandescent floodlights: Can be used indoors and outdoors if not in contact with water

Outdoor use: Incandescent floodlights withstand the elements

Halogen spotlights and floodlights: for indoor and outdoor use

Xenon bulbs: for indoor and outdoor use (check packaging carefully for special use)

Metal Halide Bulbs: For Indoor and Outdoor Use

Taizhou Mingde Decorative Lighting Co.,Ltd. is a Holiday Decorative Lights Factory, the company manufactures and sells Led Spiral Tree Lights and Ul Indoor And Outdoor Light Set other products.