Norman Lamps, Inc.

A15 incandescent light bulbs combine the familiar A-shape design with a more compact 1.875-inch diameter, making them versatile solutions for a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial lighting applications. These bulbs bridge the gap between the ultra-compact candelabra-base decorative bulbs and the standard A19 household size, offering the classic incandescent characteristics – warm color temperature, excellent color rendering, instant full brightness, and smooth dimming – in a size that works where space constraints make larger bulbs impractical. The A15 designation indicates a maximum diameter of 15/8 inches, noticeably smaller than the ubiquitous A19's 2.375-inch diameter but still substantial enough to provide meaningful light output for functional illumination rather than merely decorative accent lighting.

The medium (E26) base that most A15 bulbs feature ensures universal compatibility with the standard sockets found throughout North American homes and buildings, from table lamps and floor lamps to ceiling fixtures and wall sconces. This standardization means A15 bulbs can directly replace standard A19 bulbs when a smaller physical size is desirable or necessary, though users should be mindful that wattage-for-wattage, the smaller A15 envelope may run slightly hotter than an equivalent A19 due to reduced surface area for heat dissipation. Conversely, in fixtures originally designed for A15 bulbs, using properly rated versions ensures optimal performance and safety. The compact size makes A15 bulbs particularly appropriate for fixtures with multiple sockets where larger bulbs might crowd each other or overwhelm the fixture's proportions visually.

Appliance lighting represents another significant application area for A15 bulbs, as many refrigerators, range hoods, microwave ovens, and other household appliances incorporate built-in lighting with clearances specifically designed for this bulb size. Using the correct A15 bulb in these applications ensures the appliance door closes properly, the bulb doesn't contact any components, and the appliance lighting functions as intended. Some appliances require special "appliance-rated" A15 bulbs designed to handle the unique challenges of these environments, such as temperature extremes in ovens and refrigerators, vibration from appliance operation, or the effects of frequent on-off cycling. Standard A15 bulbs work fine in most fixtures, but for appliance applications, checking the appliance manufacturer's specifications helps ensure you select an appropriate bulb.

The wattage range available in A15 incandescent bulbs typically spans from 15 watts to 60 watts, providing flexibility to match light output to application requirements while respecting fixture wattage limitations. Lower wattages like 15W and 25W produce softer light suitable for accent lighting, ambient illumination, and fixtures where multiple bulbs combine to provide adequate brightness. Mid-range 40W options balance light output with reasonable energy consumption for general lighting tasks in smaller spaces. Higher 60W versions deliver brighter illumination for reading, task lighting, and areas requiring more substantial light levels. Many fixtures specify maximum wattage ratings that must not be exceeded, so always check your fixture's label or documentation before selecting bulb wattage.

For dimming applications, standard incandescent A15 bulbs work excellently with virtually any dimmer switch designed for incandescent loads, providing smooth, flicker-free dimming across the full range from barely glowing to full brightness. This inherent dimmability, combined with the warm color temperature that grows warmer as you dim, creates inviting ambiance in dining rooms, bedrooms, living areas, and anywhere adjustable lighting enhances the space. The color rendering properties of incandescent A15 bulbs are also exceptional, with a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 100, meaning colors appear natural and true under this light source. This makes A15 incandescent bulbs particularly valued in applications where accurate color perception matters, such as art display lighting, retail showcases, hospitality settings, and residential areas where creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere is priority.

Our A15 incandescent bulb inventory includes various wattage options, voltage ratings (both standard 120V and long-life 130V), and special-purpose variants to serve diverse application needs. Whether you're stocking maintenance supplies for a facility with numerous A15-equipped fixtures, replacing appliance bulbs in your home, or selecting the right compact bulbs for decorative lamps and sconces, we offer the selection and technical support to ensure you get exactly what your application requires. Browse our A15 options to find the wattage, voltage, and features that match your specific needs.