Base Level
To choose the right bulb, you have to start with the base size. There are three common base sizes: Candelabra (E12), Intermediate (E17), and Medium (E26) base. Keep these sizes in mind when purchasing the right bulb.
What’s Your Wattage?
It is important to choose the right wattage when it comes to choosing a bulb. That will also determine the lumen output of your fixture. Be sure to choose a bulb with the matching wattage to the specifications found in this catalog.
Shape & Style
Each base has several sizes and styles that can work for each fixture. You can change the mood of a fixture completely by changing the size and shape of bulb inside. You can also choose styles of glass at this level. Opal, Clear, Edison, and even Chromatic and Metallic bulbs exist! Get as creative as you want with your styles. Here are a few suggestions when choosing a shape and style:
A Shape
Standard/arbitrary (A) bulbs are the most widely used and thought of when it comes to household lighting. These bulbs work well for a variety of applications, such as ceiling lights, lamps, vanity lights, kitchen lights, closet lights, porch light fixtures, and so many more. Usually, A Bulbs are for Medium based socket types.
Numbers in each code refer to the bulb’s diameter in eighths of an inch.
G Shape
in various sizes. They can be used for many applications throughout the home, such as foyer lights, kitchen lights, chandeliers, and ornamental fixtures. The most common type is the large G30 bulb, which is used in bathroom and makeup vanities.
Depending on the bulb, numbers in each code can refer to the bulb’s diameter in eighths of an inch or in millimeters. G bulbs are usually for Medium-based socket types but can be for Candelabra based socket types as well.
B and C Shape
All of the bulbs in these groups resemble the shape of a candle flame and are often referred to as candle bulbs. Conical (C) bulbs are shaped like a cone. Conical angular (CA) bulbs are shaped like a cone but have a bent tip. Blunt-tip (B) bulbs are very similar to C-type bulbs but have more of a torpedo or bullet shape. These bulbs can be used in chandeliers, wall sconces, and pendant lights. B and C bulbs are usually for Candelabra based socket types but can be for Medium-based socket types as well.
Numbers in each code refer to the bulb’s diameter in eighths of an inch.
T Shape
Tubular (T) bulbs come in a variety of lengths and widths. Depending on their size, these bulbs can be used in applications ranging from chandeliers, wall sconces, and pendant lights. T bulbs are used in a combination of both Medium-based and Candelabra socket types.
Numbers in each code refer to the bulb’s diameter in eighths of an inch.
