Torchiere Lamp Facts

Did you know that your halogen torchiere light fixture might be a fire hazard? In the early 1980s halogen torchieres were introduced in the United States. They have been quite popular because they are free standing and can be moved around with ease, are inexpensive, and provide very good light levels.

In 1996 evidence began to grow tracing fires to the use of halogen torchieres. As operating temperature can exceed 800 degrees Fahrenheit, flammable materials such as curtains, paper, and small objects (such as toys) that come into contact with the halogen bulb can ignite in seconds. In addition to the fire hazard, these fixtures are very energy intensive, using 300 watts or 500 watts of electricity.

With the introduction of the compact fluorescent bulb, torchiere fixtures using these types of bulbs have become safer and more energy efficient. Compact fluorescent torchieres consume approximately 75% less electricity, last approximately five times longer than the halogen bulbs, and operate at a temperature of approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

While the compact fluorescent torchieres may not provide as great a light output as the halogen torchieres (4,000 lumens vs. 6,000 or 10,500 lumens), they are one of the safest and least expensive light fixtures to operate in American homes today.