Are There Different Types Of Spotlight Bulbs?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

GU10 bulbs are by far the most common spotlights used in homes today, but there are low voltage alternatives such as MR16 and MR11 bulbs that are often used in integrated light fittings.

What are the 3 types of light bulbs?

There are three basic kinds of light bulbs on the market: incandescent, halogen, and CFL (compact fluorescent light).

How do I know what base my light bulb is?

To know the base of a light bulb, identify if it is a screw type that has threads around the base, or a pin type that has 2 points of contact on the base. After that, measure the diameter of the screw base, or the distance between the two pins, in millimeters.

How do I know Bulb size?

Bulb sizing is very straightforward and simple, it is based on the diameter of the bulb at its widest point, measured in eighths of an inch (1⁄8”). For example, the designation “T12” indicates a tubular bulb that is 12 eighths of an inch (12/8”) in diameter (or 1 1⁄2”).

What size is a standard light bulb base?

E26

What is a normal bulb size?

There are four commonly used thread size groups for lamps: Candelabra: E12 North America, E11 in Europe. Intermediate: E17 North America, E14 (Small ES, SES) in Europe. Medium or standard: E26 (MES) in North America, E27 (ES) in Europe.

What size bulb fits in a 4 inch recessed light?

For general lighting, most cans are 4′′ or 5′′ or 6′′. For 4′′ cans, you cannot choose BR40 bulbs — they’re too big. For 5′′ cans, a BR30 will fit with a little space to all sides while a BR40 will fit with little to no space on the sides.

Can I put a regular light bulb in a recessed light?

A recessed fixture with a medium screw base lamp holder can take an incandescent, fluorescent, halogen, or LED light bulb. If you want to be able to dim your recessed lights, or control them with a remote or automated system, choose fixtures you can use incandescent, halogen, or LED light bulbs in.

Can size for BR30?

The number following the letters in a recessed light bulb indicates size: it’s the diameter of the light bulb in eighths of an inch. So, a BR30 is 30/8 inches, or three and 3/4 inches. So, you can swap out a PAR30 for an R30 or a BR30 – they are all the same size.

Are PAR30 and BR30 interchangeable?

PAR stands for “parabolic aluminized reflector.” These bulbs have a lamp, reflector, and pressed lens inside the lamp to provide directional lighting. They have a shorter body than BR light bulbs with a bowl shape. PAR light bulbs have soft light, but with a more defined edge than BR bulbs.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.