Common Light Bulb Shapes
A-shaped bulbs are the most common household bulb and are often used in lamps, ceiling fixtures, and everyday lighting.
Globe bulbs are round bulbs commonly used in bathroom vanities, decorative fixtures, and open-light designs.
Candelabra bulbs are small decorative bulbs often found in chandeliers, wall sconces, and decorative lighting fixtures.
Reflector and flood bulbs are designed to direct light over a wider area, making them ideal for recessed lighting, track lighting, kitchens, and outdoor fixtures.
Tube bulbs are long, linear bulbs commonly used in offices, garages, warehouses, kitchens, and commercial spaces.
Specialty bulbs come in unique shapes and sizes for appliances, ceiling fans, signs, landscape lighting, and other specialized applications.
Understanding Light Bulb Bases
The base is the part of the bulb that connects to the fixture. The correct base is important for proper fit and operation.
- Medium base (E26): the standard screw-in base used in most household lamps and light fixtures
- Candelabra base (E12): a smaller screw-in base commonly used in chandeliers, decorative fixtures, and night lights
- Intermediate base (E17): often found in appliance lights and specialty fixtures
- GU10 base: a twist-and-lock base commonly used in recessed and track lighting
- Bi-pin bases: two-pin bases used in many LED, fluorescent, and specialty bulbs
Choosing the Right Bulb
Before purchasing a replacement bulb, check the bulb shape, base type, voltage, brightness, and maximum wattage listed on the fixture or existing bulb.
Not sure which bulb you need? Bring your old bulb to our store, and our lighting specialists can help you find the correct replacement.