Trying to determine which light bulb you need can send your head spinning. It can be very confusing with so many different shapes and sizes to choose from. You may even be questioning why there is such a wide variety of choices. Light fixtures are generally specific about which light bulb can be used so it’s important to know exactly what you are looking for. Luckily, of all the shapes offered, there are only eight that you’ll typically need to worry about in any given home.
 
MOST COMMON HOUSEHOLD BULBS
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​Arbitrary (A): When you picture a light bulb, you’re likely thinking of an arbitrary shaped light bulb. It’s the most common and well-known bulb shape. You can find them in table lamps, wall sconces, ceiling fixtures and more.

​Bulged Reflector (BR): BR bulbs are known for their conical shape and rounded lens. They are most often used in floodlight fixtures and recessed downlights.

​Candle/Candelabra (C): Candelabra light bulbs are shaped just like, you guessed it, candles! They can have a teardrop, torpedo or flame shape and are used in chandeliers and accent lighting.

​Globe (G): Globe light bulbs are decorative and round in shape. They are commonly seen in bathroom vanity fixtures, ceiling fans and other decorative fixtures.

​Multifaceted Reflector (MR): MR bulbs provide a polished look in your track lighting systems. They are offered in different flood degrees – spot, narrow, and flood – and are used to highlight artwork, architectural elements, and task areas like your kitchen island.

​Parabolic Aluminized Reflector (PAR): PAR bulbs are very similar to BR in shape but are more robust. They are used in your outdoor floodlights and landscape fixtures. Although similar in shape, compared to BR bulbs which provide a more general area light, PAR bulb beams are more focused.

​Tubes (T): The three most common fluorescent tubes are T5, T8 and T12. Tubes are generally used in undercabinet fixtures, laundry rooms, garages and basements. Fluorescent tubes require an additional power source, or a ballast.

​Twist: CFLs, or compact fluorescent, are described as a twist. These bulbs are a popular choice for replacing A-shaped incandescent bulbs as they are more energy efficient. CFL bulbs are also commonly referred to as spiral shaped.

​Now that we’ve established the different shapes to look for, it’s time to address the varying sizes of light bulbs. With each shape offered, there are multiple sizes to choose from. The size of a light bulb is measured in eighths of an inch at the widest point of the bulb – or the diameter. A bulb’s code is created using a letter followed by the measurement. For example, an A19 bulb is arbitrary in shape and is 19/8ths of an inch in diameter. A-shaped bulbs come in a few different sizes including A15, A19, A21 and A23.

​When in doubt, try to bring your existing bulb with you to the store for reference. If you no longer have the bulb, try to get as much information from the fixture itself to help narrow down your choices. Important information to note would be the max wattage your fixture can handle, the voltage and the base type. If you’re still having trouble, give our Customer Service team a call at 877.231.2852 or visit our local sales counters in Ferndale and Wixom Monday through Friday from 7:30 am – 5:00 pm EST.

Are you looking to add some interest to your home’s interior? LED tape light is growing in popularity in modern interior design concepts. With its versatility, the possibilities are endless! It’s perfect for indirect lighting, task lighting and accent lighting in practically every room of your home.

​Indirect lighting can bring focus and layers to a room by making sure the tape is hidden but still adds an ambient glow. Try putting tape lights in bookshelves, bay windows and architectural elements like ceiling coves. American Lighting Trulux Single Color Kits are fantastic for creating these lighting effects in your home. The kit includes everything you’ll need and is cuttable to fit perfectly into your design. The STL-UWW-5MKIT is 16.4’ long and is cuttable every 6.56” to fit into your specific layout and is dimmable with most electronic low voltage dimmers. Try this kit in your living room or bedroom.

Task lighting is a very important aspect when planning out your lighting layout. Tape light is a popular choice for undercabinet lighting in the kitchen. Add more light than you think you’ll need – brighter lights help you focus and concentrate better on the task at hand. When installing your tape lights, place them near the front of your cabinets so the light is in the middle of your countertops to optimize the light output. Try the American Lighting Trulux High Output Tunable Tape Light (HTL-TW-5MKIT) and choose the color temperature that fits your needs, from warm white to daylight.
 
When it comes to accent lighting, the combinations, colors and options are endless! Try adding LED tape lights under your bathroom cabinet for an easy and trendy night light for the kids or behind your bed’s headboard or mirrors in your bedroom for a warm, cozy look. You can also take it up a notch and add colored LED tape lights to steps and stairways or your home’s architecture to add extra flair or to coordinate with holiday décor. The American Lighting Trulux RGB Tape Light (HTL-RGBW-5MKIT) allows you to select different colors to set the mood you are trying to achieve. ​

​With so many options to choose from, tape lighting can be tricky when trying to figure out what will work best for your application. Reach out to the pros at Lighting Supply with any questions. Our Customer Service department can be reached at 877.231.2852 and will be happy to assist you.