Light bulb types and fittings

Here's how to understand the type of light bulb you need:

• Check the socket where the bulb will go - E27 / E26 are screw-in bulbs, E14 are small screw-in bulbs, GU10 are twist-and-lock spotlights and B22 Bayonet caps should be pushed and twisted.
• Compare the lumens and wattage based on your need.
• Think about the colour of the lights - warm or cool
• Check the shape of the bulb.
• Lastly, do you want dimmable lights?

You can identify the light bulb fitting type by looking at the letter followed by a number. The letter refers to the type of fitting and the number means the diameter (in mm) of the bottom of the cap.

A bulb converts electricity into light. It brightens you home to help you see in the dark. Depending on the colour of the light, the bulb can help set the mood of the space.

The four main types of light bulb are:

• LED bulbs: These are modern, efficient, and long-lasting
• CFL bulbs: Tube-type bulbs that contain mercury and need time to warm up
• Halogen bulbs: A better version of incandescent but short-lived, they use halogen gas to give you a bright light.
• Incandescent bulbs: Traditional bulbs giving warm light but have a short life.

Brightness is determined by the lumen and not colour. Daylight bulbs mimic natural daylight so they emit a bright blue-white light. It's great for reading areas, workshops and places where you need more brightness. Cool white light is neutral light for focussed tasks so it's a good choice for bathrooms, kitchens or offices.

The type most popular types of light fittings are Edison Screw (ES), which comes in two variations E27 and E14 and Bayonet Cap (BC), which comes in B22 and B15 types.

To fit a light bulb, follow these steps:

• Turn off the power at the switch box.
• If there is an old bulb, let it cool and then remove it.
• Fit in the new bulb using a suitable method - push and twist or just turn, depending on the type of bulb, until secure.

An E14 light bulb, also known as SES bulb, has a small screw base with 14mm diameter. You can find it in decorative fixtures like chandeliers, wall lights, and table lamps. An E27 light bulb has a large screw base - 27mm diameter and is used in commerical and residential lighting.

Energy ratings are labels that show how energy-efficient the product is. They range from A to G. A product with A rating is the most efficient and a product with G is the least energy efficient.

If your light bulb is flickering, turn off the switch and check if it's a loose connection. Once you rule that out and it's still flickering, check if dimmer switch is compatible. Many a time, a flickering bulb also means that it's nearing its end. For other common problems, see below:

• Bulb won't turn on: Check if the fuse is blown and if the bulb is screwed in properly.
• Too dim: Is the lumens rating enough? Replace with a new one if you need more brightness.
• Humming sound: This happens when the dimmer switch does not match the bulb type.
• If in doubt, always call a professional.