wall getting hot?

Question

when I turn on the outdoor light the wall surface gets real hot within about half an hour,
Dont use outdoor light anymore afraid of fire,
Any ideas as to why,

It is a reaguly poarch light.
The wall in the house about three feet by three feet around the on switch, is where it is getting hot

Answer 1

There is a high resistance short in the wall which gets hot and could, as you say, cause a fire. Cut a hole in the wall and replace the wires.

Answer 2

You don't say where the wall is getting hot...by the switch? up by the light? In between? Inside? Outside? This could be a short, and your best approach is to get an electrician if you don't know anything about wiring. But, what kind of light is it? Give some more info. If, for instance, you have a sodium flood light and the wall below the light outside is getting hot, then you just need to re-aim the light so the light (and heat) is not hitting the wall (these are very hot lights!).

Answer 3

Use the lowest watt bulb possible. Most fixtures require 60 watt or less.

If you are already using a low wattage bulb, you may put a piece of sheet metal between the light and the wall.

Another option may be to use a fluorescent conversion bulb instead. They use less energy and generate far less heat.

Answer 4

Bad wiring. Call an electrician, Yesterday! Move out & camp in the yard. (NO PORCH LIGHT!)

Answer 5

Are you using floodlights? Are they very close to the house? Look for the simple explanation before you get crazy with the complicated ones.

Answer 6

just dont use the porch light .Call electrician immediately.