Truth or Myth?

[digital_racer]

I was told by a friend that touching the glass part of a halogen bulb will reduce its lifespan. Is it really true?

[Burger_AE102]

This is generally true for a lot of bulbs. Halogen lamps in particular though, are succeptable to failure when touched with bear hands.
The oils that naturally occour on your skin will create an inperfection on the glass of the globe, which can become a weakness.
The solution is simple though, just change is with a clean cloth, or hold it by the base only, or wear disposeable latex gloves.. whichever suits.

[Guido]

Actually, the oils on your hands (or any other dirt or contamination) will cause the bulb to overheat, and this is what will shorten the life of the bulb.
It's not a problem with regular incandescent bulbs because they operate much cooler than halogens.
If you do get it dirty, wipe it clean with a kleenex and rubbing alcohol.

[freakinbox]

some will bubble where they were touched

[toyotaspeed90]

ok... to put this accurately...

what happens is the oils from your hands get onto the glass.... when a halogen bulb is on, they do get really hot.... the oils on the bulb get much hotter, to the point where the glass can't handle the heat

either it will bubble (if you're lucky) or it will explode, and you will forever have glass in your headlight

[digital_racer]

I tested a set of halogen bulbs that I have for quite some time. I'm not sure if I actually touched the bulb or from the humidity but it exploded within minutes of use. Now I will "forever have glass in my headlight".

It has always happened with the left headlight, usually cooking the plug/socket in the process. I got away with a useful plug/socket this time. I'm planning to have my electricals checked and if my wallet allows, I'll have my wires replaced to be sure that there are no short or grounding.

Maybe another late effect of the flood that happened almost 5 years ago.