Satco 300W Medium PS25 Frosted Bulb: High-Output Incandescent for Commercial Applications

The Satco S4960 delivers 3,600 lumens from a 300-watt incandescent bulb with a 130-volt rating and 5,000-hour lifespan. Skip it if you’re chasing energy efficiency or trying to cut power bills. This bulb burns electricity like it’s 1970.

Buy it when you need serious light output in high-ceiling commercial spaces where LED retrofit costs don’t pencil out. The PS25 shape measures 6.94 inches long by 3.13 inches diameter, fitting fixtures that need reach and throw. That 360-degree beam spread floods work areas without dark spots.

Why 130V Rating Matters for Longevity

The 130-volt rating provides increased durability and longer life when used on standard 120-volt circuits. Running a bulb below its rated voltage extends filament life significantly. You’re trading 10% light output for double the lifespan compared to standard 120V bulbs.

At 5,000 hours average rated life, you’ll replace these half as often as standard incandescents. In a warehouse running 12-hour days, that’s over a year between changeouts. The universal operating position means base-up, base-down, or horizontal — no restrictions on fixture orientation.

Full dimming compatibility works with any standard incandescent dimmer. No compatibility charts. No flicker. No minimum load requirements. Dims smooth from 100% to off.

Commercial Applications and Installation Requirements

Typical applications include commercial and industrial lighting fixtures, high-ceiling residential applications, workshops, garages, and utility areas requiring high-output illumination. Think barn lighting, shop bays, and anywhere you’d hang a high-bay fixture but don’t want the complexity of HID ballasts.

Specification	Value
Wattage	300W
Voltage	130V
Lumens	3,600
Color Temperature	2700K (Warm White)
CRI	100
Base Type	Medium (E26)
Bulb Shape	PS25
Length	6.94 inches
Diameter	3.13 inches

Ensure the lighting fixture is rated for at least 300 watts to prevent overheating or fire hazards. Standard residential fixtures top out at 60-100 watts. You need commercial-grade sockets and wiring. Avoid use in non-ventilated, fully enclosed fixtures if heat dissipation is a concern. That 300 watts generates serious heat — enclosed fixtures will cook themselves.

Use only on 120V-130V circuits; do not use with 277V systems. Commercial buildings with 277V lighting circuits need different bulbs entirely.

Satco offers a limited warranty based on the average rated hours (5000 hours). No specific years-based period is typically listed for these incandescent bulbs beyond standard merchant return policies.

FAQ

What fixtures can handle a 300W incandescent bulb?

Fixtures must be rated for at least 300 watts. Look for commercial high-bay fixtures, industrial pendant lights, or barn lights with proper heat dissipation. Residential fixtures rarely exceed 100W ratings.

How does the 130V rating affect brightness on 120V circuits?

Running below rated voltage reduces light output by about 10% but doubles bulb life. You’ll get roughly 3,200 lumens instead of 3,600, but the bulb lasts 10,000+ hours instead of 5,000.

Does this bulb work with a dimmer switch?

Fully compatible with standard incandescent and magnetic low-voltage dimmers. Any dimmer that works with regular incandescent bulbs handles this one. No special requirements.

What makes the frosted finish different from clear?

The frosted finish diffuses light and reduces glare. Satco S4959 offers identical specs with clear glass for applications where you want maximum light transmission and don’t mind seeing the filament.

Is this bulb suitable for outdoor fixtures?

Yes, if the fixture is rated for 300W and protects the bulb from direct weather exposure. The universal operating position works in any orientation, making it suitable for wall packs or canopy lights.