Are you tired of poor visibility while driving at night? Upgrading your car’s headlights can make a significant difference. Sealed beam headlights are a popular choice because of their durability and brightness. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best sealed beam headlights available on the market, and stay at the end of the post hope you will find your all answer.
Introduction to Sealed Beam Headlights
According to Wikipedia 7inch round sealed beam headlights were first introduced early 1940s in United States, offering a combined bulb and reflector in a single unit. They were an improvement over previous models and gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. The use of sealed beam headlights was significantly decreased since the introduction of replaceable-bulb headlamps, which were permitted in 1983. They were phased out in favor of halogen and LED headlights, but their impact on the automotive industry was significant, paving the way for more efficient lighting systems.
Benefits of Sealed Beam Headlights
One of the main benefits of sealed beam headlights is their durability. Since the bulb, reflector, and lens are sealed together, they are less likely to get damaged or wear out over time. This means that they require less maintenance and are more reliable than other types of headlights.
Another benefit of sealed beam headlights is their brightness. These headlights produce a strong, focused beam of light that illuminates the road ahead, making it easier to see and drive safely at night or in low-light conditions.
Sealed beam headlights are also easy to install and replace. Since they are a single unit, they can be easily removed and replaced without the need for any special tools or equipment.
Types of Sealed Beam Headlights
There are three types of sealed beam headlights: halogen, LED, and Xenon.
- Halogen Sealed Beam Headlights
Halogen sealed beam headlights are the most common type of sealed beam headlights. They are affordable, easy to install, and provide bright and consistent lighting. However, compared to other types of sealed beam headlights, they have a shorter lifespan
- LED Sealed Beam Headlights
LED sealed beam headlights are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan. They also provide bright and consistent lighting, making them a great choice for night driving. However, they are typically more expensive than halogen sealed beam headlights.
- Xenon Sealed Beam Headlights
Xenon sealed beam headlights are the most expensive compared to halogen and LED types, but they provide the brightest and whitest light. They are also highly efficient and have a long lifespan. However, they require special wiring and ballasts, which can make them more difficult to install.
Best Sealed Beam Headlights
Now that we have covered the different types of sealed beam headlights, let’s take a look at the best options available on the market.
Top 5 Best Halogen Sealed Beam Headlights
- Philips H6024C1 Standard Sealed Beam headlight
- SYLVANIA H6054 XtraVision Sealed Beam Headlight
- SYLVANIA H4656 Basic Sealed Beam Headlight
- Wagner Lighting H5006 Sealed Beam Headlight
- GE Lighting H4656 Standard Sealed Beam Headlight
Top 5 Best LED Sealed Beam Headlights
- Hwstar H6054 Sealed Beam Headlight
- Partsam 6054 Sealed Beam Headlight
- KASLIGHT H6054 Sealed Beam Headlight
- Torchbeam H6054 Sealed Beam Headlight
- KASLIGHT H6024 Sealed Beam Headlight (7inch Round)
Top 3 Best Xenon Sealed Beam Headlights
- Wagner Lighting BriteLite H6024BL Xenon Sealed Beam Headlight
- Delta Lights 01-1139-50X Replaceable Xenon Sealed Beam Headlight
- JC Performance Replaceable Xenon Sealed Beam
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sealed Beam Headlights
Choosing the right sealed beam headlights can be a daunting task. Here are some factors to consider when making your purchase:
- Compatibility: Ensure the headlights are compatible with your vehicle’s make, model, and year.
- Lighting performance: Look for headlights that provide optimal brightness, visibility, and a well-defined beam pattern for safe and effective illumination.
- Light output: Consider the light output in terms of lumens and color temperature, as these affect visibilities and the overall appearance of your vehicle.
- Energy efficiency: Choosing headlights that are energy-efficient, as they can save battery power and reduce strain on the electrical system.
- Durability: Choose headlights made from high-quality materials that are resistant to shocks, vibrations, and weather conditions to ensure long-lasting performance.
- DOT/SAE compliance: Ensure the sealed beam headlights comply with DOT/SAE regulations to ensure they meet safety standards.
- Cost: Consider the cost of the headlights, including the initial purchase price and potential long-term maintenance or replacement costs.
- Warranty: Look for headlights that come with a warranty to protect against manufacturing defects.
- Reviews and recommendations: To find out more about the headlights, it’s always a good idea to read customer reviews and take advice from reliable sources. This will help you learn about their performance and dependability. That will help you to make an informed decision.
Legal Issues may also be considered:
Sealed Beam Headlights are commonly used all over the world and we have not found any legal issues but before you decide you may take a look at your traffic rules on it.
In the USA 50 States have unique regulations and laws for the proper use of headlights and there are also rules about what type of lights you can install. Some common regulations are using for headlights, High Beam, and Hazards lights are
Headlights:
- Headlights must be used before and after 30 minutes of sunrise and sunset.
- When you cannot see 500 feet ahead then you must turn on the Headlights.
High Beams:
- High beams must be dimmed when approaching traffic is within 500 feet.
- High beams must also be dimmed when following within 200 feet of another vehicle.
Hazards:
- Hazard lights are restricted when driving. They may only be in use when the vehicle is disabled.
Installation Tips for Sealed Beam Headlights
When installing sealed beam headlights, consider the following tips:
- Disconnect the battery: Before starting any electrical work, disconnect the vehicle’s battery to prevent any accidental short circuits or electrical damage.
- Gather necessary tools: Ensure you have the necessary tools for the installation, such as a screwdriver, socket set, and wire cutter.
- Remove the old headlights: Depending on your car model, you may need to remove the grille or frame before you can reach the sealed beam headlights. Follow the specific instructions for your vehicle.
- Disconnect the wiring: Disconnect the wiring join or connector from the back of the old sealed beam headlight.
- Remove and replace the sealed beam: Remove any retaining screws or clips that are securing the old sealed beam headlight in place. Take note of their positions for the installation of the new headlight. Carefully remove the old sealed beam and replace it with the new one, ensuring that it is properly aligned.
- Secure the new sealed beam: Reinstall any retaining screws or clips to secure the new sealed beam headlight in place.
- Connect the wiring: Reconnect the wiring harness or connector to the back of the new sealed beam headlight. Ensure it is securely connected.
- Test the headlights: Reconnect the battery and test the headlights to verify proper installation and functionality. Ensure that both high and low beams are working correctly.
- Adjust the headlights: If necessary, adjust the headlights’ aim to ensure proper alignment and optimal visibility. If necessary, consult a professional for guidance on headlight adjustment.
- Reinstall any removed components: If you had to remove any trim bezels or grilles, reinstall them securely.
When installing any new parts in your vehicle, it’s essential to read the manufacturer’s instructions and/or refer to your car manual for additional information and safety measures. If you’re not sure about any part of the process, it’s strongly recommended to get help from a professional.
Maintenance and Care for Sealed Beam Headlights
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of sealed beam headlights, follow these maintenance and care tips:
- Regular cleaning: Clean the headlights regularly to remove dirt, corrosion, and road grime that can reduce brightness and visibility. Use a soap or specialized headlight cleaning solution and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the lens.
- Inspect for damage: Regularly check the sealed beam headlights for any indications of damage, like fractures, accumulation of moisture, or change in color. Damaged headlights should be replaced promptly to maintain proper illumination and safety.
- Check and replace bulbs: If your sealed beam headlights use replaceable bulbs, check them periodically for any signs of dimness or failure. Replace bulbs as needed, following the manufacturer’s instructions and using bulbs of the correct wattage and type.
- Aim adjustment: Periodically check your headlights to ensure they are properly aimed. Misaligned headlights can decrease visibility and potentially blind drivers approaching from the opposite direction. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for instructions on how properly adjust the aim, or consider seeking help from a professional.
- Protect against UV damage: UV exposure can degrade sealed beam headlights over time. Consider using a protective film or coating specifically designed for headlights to prevent yellowing, hazing, and UV damage.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as strong solvents or abrasive cleaners, on the headlights, as they can damage the lens and housing. Stick to mild soaps or specialized headlight cleaning products.
- Maintain electrical connections: Ensure that the electrical connections to the sealed beam headlights are secure and free from corrosion. If necessary, clean the terminals and connectors with a contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
- Protect from impact: To prevent damage to the sealed beam headlights, it is advisable to drive carefully and avoid collisions with any objects. If your vehicle is often exposed to rough off-road conditions, it may be worth considering the installation of headlight covers or guards.
- Follow manufacturer’s guidelines: Read the manufacture instructions about the specific sealed beam headlights. They may have additional recommendations or specific care instructions for their product.
By following these maintenance and care practices, you can keep your sealed beam headlights in good condition, ensure optimal performance, and maximize their lifespan.
What is a Sealed Beam Headlight?
A sealed beam headlight means a fully enclosed one-piece glass headlight housing so the whole thing is glass. It’s not serviceable, it’s only replaceable.
What is an average Lifespan of Sealed Beam Headlights?
Sealed beam headlights are mostly known for their long life. Most sealed beam headlamps manufacturers offer their light life at 50K-100K hours. Nowadays these lights are becoming more popular due to their long durability.
What Materials are used in Sealed Beam Headlights?
- High Graded Aluminum Most of the sealed beam headlight housings are made of aluminum. This high-strength metal will provide long-lasting durability and ensures corrosion resistance. All the sealed beam headlights have the IP167 waterproof facility, and they will be able to run in extreme conditions of -45⁰F to 200⁰F.
- Cooling Fan: Active cooling fan facility will help the bulbs to protect from overheating and strengthen the lifespan of LEDs.
- Current Regulator: This integrated circuit chip will control voltage to protect LED from current spikes.
Interchangeable with conventional Bulbs
Seal beam headlights are easily replaceable with other normal bulbs. You can easily interchange your normal headlamp with a sealed beam. Before you purchase please check the specification is this compectable to your car model?
What Brand of Headlights is the Best?
All the brands of Headlight manufacturers are standing in the market with a great reputation. But IPCW brands of headlights are slightly ahead of others.
Is LED Sealed Beam Headlights Replaceable?
Yes; There are many sealed beam headlight conversion kits available on the market. Those kits will allow drivers to upgrade their vehicles with modern LED technology while still keeping the classic look of sealed beam headlights. conversion kits are different sizes so you can find one that fits your vehicle perfectly.
How Many Lumens is a Sealed Beam Headlight?
Different types of brands are using a different number of lumens in car headlights. Optix brands are using 8000 lumens for their 80-wattage headlights, and LEDUR brands are using High Beam 5600 and Low Beam 2500 lumens for 25 Volts and 3200 lumens for their 12 Volts headlights.
How Long do Sealed Beam Headlights Last?
Sealed beam headlights are long-lasting headlights but different brands offer different lifespan. Generally, the lifespan of a sealed beam headlight is 50,000+ hours.
Which Headlights Shine the Brightest?
Mainly headlight brightness depends on lumens. Therefore, more lumens in a headlight provide higher brightness. Lights with 6000 or higher lumens are brightest.
Conclusion
For those who are considering replacing their headlights, sealed beam led headlights are the best option. From 1940s it is steel very popular for there simplicity, low cost, greater brightness, better beam control, and longer lifespan.
They were used in a wide range of vehicles including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Hopefully, this guide will meet all your questions and help you to pick the best sealed beam headlights.
