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What is a Standard Size Light Bulb?

Published in Lighting 2 mins read

A standard size light bulb is often considered to be the A19 bulb.

Understanding the A19 Light Bulb

The A19 light bulb is a very common and recognizable shape used in many household lighting fixtures. Let's break down what the "A19" designation means:

  • "A" Shape: The "A" refers to the shape of the bulb, which is the classic or "Arbitrary" shape. It's the traditional pear-shaped bulb that most people picture when they think of a light bulb.
  • "19" Measurement: The number "19" indicates the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch. This means the diameter of an A19 bulb is 19/8 inches, which is approximately 2.375 inches (or about 60 mm).

Key Features of a Standard (A19) Light Bulb

  • Common Usage: Commonly used in table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling fixtures, and other general lighting applications.
  • Variety of Technologies: A19 bulbs are available in various lighting technologies, including:
    • Incandescent: Older, less energy-efficient technology.
    • LED (Light Emitting Diode): Highly energy-efficient and long-lasting.
    • CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamp): More energy-efficient than incandescent but less so than LED.
  • Base Type: Typically uses a medium (E26) screw base in North America. Other regions might use a different base.
  • Versatility: Offered in a range of wattages, light outputs (lumens), and color temperatures to suit different lighting needs.

In summary, while other light bulb sizes and shapes exist, the A19 bulb is widely considered a standard size for general household lighting due to its widespread availability, versatility, and common use in various fixtures.

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