Lightbulb energy rating scale
Bulb types
Capsule - G4
A G4 lightbulb is a bi-pin base lamp that runs off a low-voltage power supply. The “G4” is a base where the two pins are 4mm apart. It's generally used in chandeliers and crystal light luminaires or where space is at a premium.
Capsule - G9
A G9 lightbulb is a bi-pin base lamp that runs off a low-voltage power supply. The “G9” is a base where the two looped pins are 9mm apart. It's generally used in desk lamps, accent lights and small appliances.
Capsule - R7s
An R7s bulb is a mains voltage double ended, single contact linear lamp (RSC) and is most commonly used in under counter lighting, cupboard lighting, desk lamps, and ceiling lamps.
Spotlight - GU4
The GU4, also known as MR11, is a push and fit lamp with two pins that measure 4mm apart. They are usually used in open displays, cabinet and in display lighting.
Spotlight - GU5.3
The GU5.3 is similar to the GU4 fitting in that it's a push and fit lamp; however, the pins are 5.3mm apart. Most commonly used in open displays, cabinet and in display lighting.
Spotlight - GU10
The GU10 is the most commonly used lamp in ceiling lights and spotlights, and can be identified by the two short, squarish pins that stick out from the base of the lamp at 10mm apart.
Bayonet - B22
The B22, known as a bayonet fitting, the most traditionally used bulb in the UK, can be found in most homes and can be identified by the two pins that stick out on either side of the base. They are available in a dimmable and non-dimmable form and in warm and cool white colours.
Screw - E27
The E27 is the most common type of Edison screw-based lamp. The 27 refers to the diameter of the base and is compatible with table lamps, bedside lights and floor standing lamps. They are available in a dimmable and non-dimmable form and in warm and cool white colours.
Screw - E14
The E14 Edison screw has a smaller base than the E27, as its diameter is only 14mm, and is most commonly used in small table lamps and in candelabras.
Bulb shapes
Mini Globe
Mini Globes are sometimes referred to as golf ball lamps, due to their small size. They are ideally suited for fixings or lamp holders in tight spaces.
Globe
The Globe light, not to be mistaken with GLS or the Mini Globe, are a large round light that is usually used in larger more decorative light fittings or lamps.
GLS
The most popular shape of light bulb, quite commonly found in most homes in the UK due to its traditional style. Ideal for all rooms and in a variety of table lamps, ceiling lamps and fixtures.
Capsule
The capsule lamp is a small bi-pin lamp designed to be used in a the smallest of fixtures, or in some domestic appliances.
Oven
The oven lamp is a dedicated lamp used for the inside of the oven to see what you are cooking.
Lamps
An R7S is a double ended, Recessed Single Contact (RSC) linear lamp which is available in two lengths: 118mm or 78mm. Both lengths however have a contact point of 7mm. These are ideal for floor lamps, uplighters and garden floodlights.
Spotlight
Spotlight lamps are named for their focused beam angle that can direct the beam of light into very focused areas. Ideal for ceilings, kitchen lights or displays where a focused light is needed.
Candle
More of a decorative lamp and designed to fit in candelabras, hall light fittings and entrance ways.
Fridge
A lamp specifically designed as a direct replacement for the light inside a fridge.
Light colour
The colour of a lightbulb is measured in Kelvins (K). A lower K number (around 3,000K) indicates a warm light and a higher K number (5,000-6,000K) indicates a cool light. Warm light would be more suitable for a cosy lounge or dining room, whereas you might prefer a cool light for an area like a kitchen where you would be working. If you prefer to be able to switch to change the mood of a room, you could also consider colour changing options.
Decorative lightbulbs
With an attractive old style look, vintage filament bulbs are available in a number of different bulb shapes. Our LED versions of these bulbs mean getting the look while being energy efficient.
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