What size is a regular bulb socket?
A regular bulb socket, also known as an Edison screw base or E26/E27 socket, is a common type of light bulb socket used in residential and commercial lighting fixtures. The size of a regular bulb socket refers to the diameter of the threaded base that the light bulb screws into.
What is the Size of a Regular Bulb Socket?
The standard size for a regular bulb socket is 26 millimeters (mm) in diameter, which is equivalent to 1 inch. This size is also known as an E26 socket. In some regions, such as Europe, the slightly larger E27 socket, which is 27 mm in diameter, is also considered a regular bulb socket size.
Why Does Bulb Socket Size Matter?
The size of the bulb socket is important because it determines the type of light bulb that can be safely used in a fixture. Using a bulb with the wrong base size can be a fire hazard, as the bulb may not fit properly or could become loose in the socket. It's crucial to match the bulb base size to the socket size to ensure a secure and safe connection.
Common Regular Bulb Socket Types
- E26: The standard North American regular bulb socket, with a 26 mm diameter base.
- E27: The standard European regular bulb socket, with a 27 mm diameter base.
- A19: A common type of light bulb that fits into a regular E26/E27 socket.
- BR30: A reflector bulb that also fits into a regular E26/E27 socket.
When replacing a light bulb, always check the socket size and match it to the bulb base size to ensure a proper and safe fit.
What is a regular bulb socket?
The most common light bulb base sizes include:
Standard-Medium, a regular sized screw in base: E26 or E27. Candelabra, a smaller screw in base: E12. Intermediate: E17.
Is E26 a regular light bulb base?
A Medium or Standard base light bulb is also referred to as an e26 base light bulb. Around 90% of light bulbs sold here in the U.S. come with a “Medium” e26 base. The second most common type of light bulb base that you'll find here in the United States (and North America) is the “Candelabra” base.
Are A19 and E26 the same?
No, A19 and E26 are not the same; they refer to different parts of a light bulb: A19 describes the bulb's shape and size, while E26 refers to the base type. An A19 bulb is a common pear-shaped bulb, and the E26 is the standard Edison screw-in base, which all A19 bulbs use in North America, making them compatible in most cases.
A19 (Shape and Size)
- A: Indicates the standard "pear" or round shape.
- 19: Means the bulb's widest part is $19/8$ths of an inch in diameter, which is about 2.375 inches or 60mm.
E26 (Base Type)
- E: Stands for "Edison," referring to the screw-in type base.
- 26: Indicates the diameter of the base is 26 millimeters.
Why they are often confused
- The confusion arises because almost all standard A19 bulbs in North America are designed to fit into an E26 socket.
- You can have an A19 bulb that uses an E26 base, but you can also have other bulb shapes (like globes or candles) that use the same E26 base.
What is a standard bulb socket size?
E26/E27
What Is the Most Common Light Bulb Socket? The most common light bulb socket for a standard bulb is E26/E27 medium screw. E26 bulbs are regularly used in North American households.
