Standard Light Bulb Shape Codes

When it comes to choosing a light bulb, understanding the standard shapes and their corresponding codes can be a game-changer. This guide demystifies the world of standard light bulb shapes, so you can make informed decisions whether you're illuminating your home or selecting lighting fixtures for a commercial project.

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Light bulbs come in a variety of shapes designed to fit various fixtures and serve different purposes. Let's explore the most common standard light bulb shapes and their corresponding codes.

different types of light bulbs are shown in this diagram, with the names and symbols below

General Shape Categories

Before diving into specific shapes, let's discuss two general categories: directional and non-directional.

the light bulb sizes chart is shown in black and white

Directional bulbs cast their light in a specific direction,typically forward. Non-directional bulbs emit light in all directions, creating a wider, more diffuse glow.

Directional Bulbs

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Directional bulbs are ideal for task lighting and focused illuminating, such as in reading lamps or under-cabinet fixtures.

Common directional bulb shapes are:

Spot (A)
Flood (BR)
Elliptical (ER)
Candle (CA)
Reflector (R)

For instance, the 'A' code signifies a general service (also known as A19) bulb with an 'A' shape, typically used in table lamps and floor lamps. The 'BR' code, on the other hand, represents a bulb with a flood light distribution, often used in recessed lighting fixtures.

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Non-Directional Bulbs

Non-directional bulbs are perfect for ambient and overall room illumination, such as in chandeliers and ceiling fixtures.

Common non-directional bulb shapes include:

Globe (G)
Oval (OV)
Cubular (C)
Tripode (T)
Marina (M)

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For example, 'G' code bulbs have a globe shape and a 120-degree beam angle, making them popular choices for decorative fixtures and pendant lights. 'OV' code bulbs offer a wider, 160-degree beam angle, providing broader, more diffused light.

Specialty Light Bulbs

three light bulbs are shown with measurements for each bulb, and one has the same size as

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In addition to standard shapes, there are specialty light bulbs designed for specific applications.

Some specialty bulb shapes and their codes are:

Parabolic Alvarez (PAR)
Stadium (AR)
Roving (RV)
B acarbon (KED)

PAR, for instance, represents a parabolic reflector bulb, commonly used in track lighting and stage lighting. AR bulbs, also known as ' municipalité' or 'Municiple' bulbs, were once used in street lights but are now less common. Specialty bulbs can have MAC (Multiple Angle Clean) or GDA (General Directional Angle) designations, signifying their beam spread and distribution.

Base Types

Understanding base types is also crucial when selecting light bulbs. The three most common base types are E26, E12, and GU24.

Base Type	Wattage Range	Use
E26	25-1700W	Standard medium base found in most A19, BR, and PAR bulbs
E12	10-60W	Candelabra base found in miniature and decorative bulbs
GU24	9-17W	Used in compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) and some LED bulbs

In conclusion, familiarizing yourself with standard light bulb shapes and their corresponding codes equips you to make savvy lighting selections. Whether you're updating fixtures in your home or specifying bulbs for a commercial project, understanding the basics simplifies the process, ensuring the right bulb lights up the right spot.