If you are the one who wants to add a lava lamp to your space, but the question are lava lamps expensive to run? Confuses you? you are not the only one. Electricity bill triggers everyone. So in this article, we are going to see whether this statement is true or not.
Furthermore, we also see how to calculate the electricity consumption of lava lamps. Or how to use lava lamps safely? Whether lava lamps are sustainable for the environment? are lava lamps eco-friendly? And much more.
Let’s break the silence and look at the various aspects of lava lamps with respect to the environment and beauty that they added to space. Before moving towards them have a look at the working of a lava lamp.
How Does a Lava Lamp Work
A lava lamp or halogen light filled with water and bright wax comes with two liquids. One is paraffin wax, and second one is tinted liquid mostly mineral oil. Wax and liquid are insoluble as both of them have different densities.
Heat is applied to the liquid and wax. This is done by using an incandescent bulb inside the tube of the lava lamp. The wax gets heat and expands. Ultimately it becomes less dense and arises at the top of the top.
Alternation in the heat makes the wax sink and arise in slow motion. Ultimately it provides an aesthetic and soothing vibe.
Are Lava Lamps Expensive to Run?
This topic requires a deep discussion. So let’s get into it. We all are well aware that lava lamps require a constant source of energy to work perfectly. The main energy source in lava lamps is incandescent bulbs.
These typical incandescent bulbs provide constant heat when connected to the electrical plugs. In simple words, for the best working lava lamps, you have to consecutively connect them to the electricity. In this way, a typical lava lamp uses a lot of electricity.
The consecutive heat from the bulb of the best lava lamp keeps the wax warm. If enough heat does not provide to the wax, then it does not convert into lava properly. Ultimately it affects the processing of lava lamps.
Now, let’s have a rough estimate of the consumption of electricity. First of all, we all should know every lava lamp is designed with different sizes of bulbs. Usually, 15, 25, 40, or 200 watts bulbs are used according to the height of the lamp.
Method To Measure the Energy Consumption of Lava Lamp
Higher bulb wattage means higher electricity consumption. For estimating the electricity consumption, first of all, convert the wattage into kilowatt hours. Let’s say you have a lava lamp that comprises a 100-watt incandescent bulb.
You keep this lamp on 24/7. For estimation of electricity consumption, multiply 100 watts x 24 hrs. x 365 d. So your lamp is using 876,000 watts annually. If we convert it into kilowatts then it will be 876 kilowatts.
Factors That Determine Electricity Consumption Of Lava Lamps
There are a few factors of lava lamps that will determine how much electricity will they consume. So we all should have an idea about them, ultimately we can get the one according to our budget.
Size of The Lava Lamp
The very first factor is the size of the lamp. It is obvious a lamp with a larger height consumes more electricity as compared to a lamp with a smaller height. This electricity difference is very minor.
Size of Incandescent Lamps
The second factor is the size of an incandescent lamp. Here the size means the wattage of the lamp. Generally, larger-sized lamps comprise higher-wattage bulbs. These bulbs ultimately use higher energy.
In a rough estimation generally, a lava lamp with 100 watts bulb uses 876000 watts of electricity yearly.
Lava lamp model
The model of lava lamps also plays a crucial role in electricity consumption. Some old models of lava lamps use more electricity as compared to the latest ones. So I prefer you to grab the latest model lava lamp for yourself.
Usage of Lava Lamp
Another important factor is the usage duration of a lava lamp. The more you use lamps the more electricity will consume. So I recommend you not to use a lava lamp for more than 7 to 8 hours.
Quality of Liquid Inside The Lava Lamp
The quality of the liquid inside the lava lamps is also the most essential thing in the electricity consumption. Some lava lamps use low-quality liquid that takes more time in heating. Ultimately a lot of energy dissipates during this process.
How To Use Lava Lamps Safely
In this portion, there are a few rules to minimize energy consumption and use lava lamps safely. So we all should consider them before using lava lamps.
- Always unplug the lava lamp after usage
- Never use lava lamps consecutively for 7 to 8 hours
- Avoid shaking lava lamp
- Avoid exposure of lava lamps directly to the sunlight
- Do not touch the lava lamp while it is plugged into electricity.
Alternates To Lava Lamps
If you ask for the alternates to a lava lamp then it will be a jellyfish lamp. These lamps work exactly as lava lamps. You can get your hand on these lamps
Frequently Asked Question
Question No 1: Are Lava Lamps Hot To The Touch?
Answer: yes, lava lamps become hot when they are working. So keep the lamp away from the reach of children.
Question No 2: Are Lava Lamps Dangerous?
Answer: No, lava lamps are not dangerous if you use them properly. Keep it away from them direct light exposure. Never shake them.
Question No 3: How Much Does a Lava Lamp Cost?
Answer: Generally the starting price of lava lamps is $50 and the maximum limit is $150. So you have to select the one that will suit your budget.
Final Words
In short Are lava lamps expensive to run? only to the time when you keep them on for a longer duration. Furthermore, Lava lamps are not eco-friendly, and sustainable for the environment.
Meanwhile, it is not wrong to say that these lamps add value and soothing vibes to the area. The end note is if you want to add a lava lamp to your space follow the instructions mention above for a perfect experience.
