Halogen torchiere floor lamps, freestanding lamps with open, shallow bowl tops that provide indirect "up lighting," have become increasingly popular since their introduction in the United States in 1983. These lamps use halogen tubular bulbs, which get much hotter than standard light bulbs. Since the tops are open, flammable items such as curtains can easily ignite through direct contact with the halogen bulb.
Most regular torchiere floor lamps use halogen bulbs that burn at temperatures exceeding 1,200 degrees hot enough to fry an egg in 30 seconds! This is well above the combustion temperatures for paper, wood and fabric, which range from 350-500 degrees F. The Consumer Products Safety Commission has attributed at least 31 deaths, 114 injuries and at least 350 fires resulting in $2 million in property damage to these lamps.
But Energy Star labeled torchiere floor lamps use compact fluorescent bulbs that burn much cooler, last 5 times longer and use 80% less energy. For example, an Energy Star torchiere uses a 56-watt fluorescent bulb, which gives the same amount of light as a 300-watt halogen bulb. Energy Star torchieres have full range or 3 ways dimming, come in a variety of styles and have a two-year warranty.
For something fun and funky, use a yellow painted bulb covered in silicone. This is a pricey bulb, but it's definitely a conversation starter. If you enjoy brilliant colors with stained glass shades, check out the style stained glass lamps. From stained glass, contemporary table lamps, desk lamps, traditional lamps, mica land amps.
