Choosing Chandelier Bulbs: Screw Size Considerations And Tips

Chandeliers are decorative fixtures that require specific bulbs to balance aesthetics and practicality. The most common base size for chandelier bulbs is E12, also known as the Candelabra base type, with a 12mm diameter. These bulbs are typically used for chandelier-type fixtures and decorative lighting, resembling the shape of a candle flame. Other base sizes include E17 (Intermediate) and E26 (Medium), which are less commonly used in chandeliers. When purchasing chandelier bulbs, it is recommended to buy them all at once from the same manufacturer to ensure consistent colour temperature and brightness.

E12 bulbs: 12mm diameter, also known as Candelabra

E12 bulbs, also known as candelabra bulbs, have a diameter of 12mm and are used for chandelier-type fixtures and decorative lighting. They are often found in ceiling fans, kitchen appliances, wall sconces, outdoor fixtures, pendants, photography devices, and select machinery.

The E12 bulb is a relatively small screw-type bulb, also known as a miniature candelabra or "mini-can". The "E" in E12 stands for Edison, after Thomas Edison, who invented the Edison screw base in 1909. The number "12" refers to the diameter of the bulb screw size in mm.

E12 bulbs are commonly used in decorative fixtures due to their smaller size. They can be combined to create impressive illumination. These bulbs are available in a range of wattages and can be dimmable or non-dimmable. They are also available in different shapes, including B10, B11, G16.5, and T6.

E12 bulbs are a popular choice for chandeliers and decorative lighting, with their small size and impressive illumination adding to their appeal.

E26 bulbs: 26mm diameter, standard size in the US

E26 bulbs, also known as Medium Edison Screw (MES) bulbs, are the standard bulb size in the US. The 'E' in E26 refers to the Edison Screw base, named after Thomas Edison, and the '26' refers to the diameter of the bulb base, which is 26mm.

E26 bulbs are highly versatile and can be used in most bulb sockets found in American homes and offices. They are easy to install, thanks to the Edison Screw mounting mechanism, and offer a wide range of bulb sizes and shapes to choose from. This type of bulb is also cross-compatible with other similar bulb sizes, such as E27.

You can identify an E26 bulb by looking at the bottom or non-light emitting side. You will see a metallic screw base with a diameter of approximately 1 inch. Manufacturers will usually print "E26" on the bulb, along with the wattage and brightness information, to ensure safe use with appropriate lampholders.

E26 bulbs are used in various applications, including incandescent, fluorescent CFL, and LED lamps. They are also commonly used in smart bulb lamps, which can be controlled by smart assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa.

In summary, E26 bulbs are the standard size in the US due to their versatility, ease of installation, and wide range of compatible bulb shapes and sizes.

B-shaped bulbs: Bullet or Torpedo shaped

B-shaped light bulbs, also known as blunt-tip bulbs, resemble the shape of a torpedo or a blunt bullet. They are commonly used in chandeliers and other decorative lighting fixtures.

The B-series includes the following types of bulbs:

• BT-series: These bulbs have a bulged, bulbous, or blown tube shape, resembling a T bulb with a bubble in the middle. They are commonly used in sports arenas, car dealerships, canopy lighting, and industrial lighting applications. Examples of BT bulbs include BT15, BT20, BT28, BT37, and BT56.
• BR-Series: These bulbs have a short reflector and a slightly bulged shape. They are energy-efficient due to their effective internal reflection. Common BR bulb sizes include BR25, BR30, BR38, and BR40. They are often used in track and recessed lighting.

The size of B-shaped bulbs is indicated by the number after the "B", which represents the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch. For example, a B10 bulb has a diameter of 10/8 inches or 1.25 inches.

When purchasing B-shaped chandelier bulbs, it is recommended to buy them all from the same manufacturer at the same time to ensure consistent colour temperature and brightness across the fixture.

C-shaped bulbs: Candle or Conical shaped

C-shaped bulbs, also known as "C bulbs", are recognised for their candle or conical shape, reminiscent of a flickering candle flame. The "C" in their name stands for "candelabra", indicating their primary decorative use in chandeliers, wall sconces, and ornate lamps.

C-shaped bulbs have a pointed tip, which differentiates them from B-shaped bulbs, which have a bent or curved tip. The shape of a C-shaped bulb is designed to replicate the tapered shape of a candle flame, offering the perfect balance between aesthetics and practicality.

The size of C-shaped bulbs varies, with the number in their name indicating their diameter in eighths of an inch. For example, a C6 bulb is approximately 0.75 inches in diameter, while a C15 bulb is 1.875 inches in diameter.

When it comes to the base of C-shaped bulbs, the most common types are the E12 candelabra base and the E26 medium base. The letter "E" refers to the Edison style base, and the number after indicates the diameter of the base in millimetres. So, an E12 base is 12mm in diameter, while an E26 base is 26mm in diameter.

C-shaped bulbs are ideal for smaller light fittings or decorative lighting where you want some atmospheric glow. They are often used in chandeliers, wall lights, and desk lamps to mimic the look of a real candle and give the fixture a vintage feel.

CA-shaped bulbs: Candle Angular shaped

CA-shaped bulbs, or Candle Angular shaped bulbs, are a type of light bulb commonly used in chandeliers and decorative lighting. They are designed to replicate the tapered shape of a candle flame, offering both aesthetic and practical benefits.

The shape of a CA-shaped bulb is identified by a code, with the letter representing the specific shape and the number representing the bulb's width in eighths of an inch. For example, a CA12 bulb would be a candle angular-shaped bulb with a width of 12/8" or 1.5" inches.

CA-shaped bulbs typically have an E12 base, also known as a candelabra base. This type of base is often used for smaller decorative incandescent or LED lights. The "E" in E12 refers to the Edison style base, and the number "12" indicates that the base diameter is 12 mm.

When choosing CA-shaped bulbs, you can select from a variety of brightness, shapes, and bases to find the perfect option for your chandelier or decorative lighting fixture. These bulbs are known for their candle-like shape, creating a natural and atmospheric glow.

In addition to chandeliers, CA-shaped bulbs are often used in desk lamps, wall lights, and festive lights to mimic the warm and decorative look of a real candle flame. They are a popular choice for those seeking a vintage or atmospheric lighting style.

Frequently asked questions