Lamp and Lighting Facts

Jim Hoyle () -

A- Thomas Edison did not invent the light bulb.

He bought the patent and improved it.

B- 3 way light bulbs work like this:

1st click - The smaller filament is turned on alone creating the lower light level.

2nd click - The larger filament is turned on alone (and the smaller off) creating the higher light level.

3rd click - Both filaments are turned on creating the highest light level.

C- 3 way light bulbs burn out faster because:

Alternating cooling/heating of the two metal filaments shortens their lifespan.

D- Watts is not a measurement of light output. It is the electricity usage.

E- Lumens is the measurement of brightness or light output.

F- 2 way lamp has two separate bulbs with 2 levels of light.

(Hoyle Fine Lamps have optional hi-lo in-line switch that provides 2 levels of light

from just a single ordinary bulb.)

G- 3 way lamp has a 2 circuit socket and bulb that provides 3 levels of light (B above).

H- 6 way lamp has a combination of 3 way lighting (G above) and 3 additional bulbs

which are controlled by a 2 circuit switch: 1 bulb on, 2 bulbs on, 3 bulbs on, then off.

I- Lamp Finial is the very top cap piece that sits on top of the shade.

J- Lamp Harp is the "U" shaped wire piece that holds the shade onto the lamp.

K- Lamp Harp size must be matched with the shade size for a proper fit.

L- Lamp Shades are measured: top diameter, bottom diameter, side length along with a description of the shape.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

In 1979 Jim Hoyle began selling lamps, home accessories and furniture to retail stores as a sales rep traveling the beautiful states of North and South Carolina. Now the company ships lamps and home decor worldwide.

Comment #1 George from Dead Like Me -

Great information, Jim. How do you decide what size shade is best for your lamp. Is it personal preference? Or do you just have to guess and take shades home before you find the right one?

Will it harm your lamp to put a standard bulb into a three-way lamp?

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