Norman Lamps, Inc.

European light bulbs use E14 (small Edison screw) and E27 (Edison screw) bases that differ from North American E12 (candelabra) and E26 (medium) bases, along with voltage specifications of 220-240V rather than 120V. These bulbs are essential for travelers using appliances from Europe in European countries, for European fixtures installed in homes or businesses, for imported European lighting fixtures and lamps, and for anyone with electrical equipment designed for European standards. Using the wrong voltage bulb can result in immediate failure or dangerously inadequate light output.

The base size differences, while seeming minor, prevent interchangeability in most cases. E14 bases (14mm diameter) are slightly larger than North American E12 candelabra bases (12mm), and E27 bases (27mm) are slightly larger than North American E26 medium bases (26mm). While an E26 bulb might physically thread into an E27 socket in some cases, the voltage difference (120V bulb in 220-240V socket) means it won't work properly. Conversely, a 240V E27 bulb will physically thread into a North American E26 socket but will produce only dim light on 120V power.

Voltage is the critical specification. European electrical systems operate at 220-240V (the exact voltage varies by country) at 50Hz, compared to North American 120V at 60Hz. A 240V bulb used in 240V systems produces its designed light output and operates with normal life. That same 240V bulb used in a 120V system will produce roughly 25-30% of its rated light output and appear very dim. A 120V bulb used in a 240V system will be subjected to twice the designed voltage, will briefly flash extremely bright, and will fail almost immediately – often explosively.

Common applications for European bulbs include chandeliers, wall sconces, ceiling fixtures, table and floor lamps purchased in Europe, specialty lighting fixtures made to European standards, and appliances like refrigerators, ovens, range hoods, and sewing machines manufactured for European markets. Many European fixtures use E14 bases for decorative chandelier bulbs, while E27 bases serve for general lighting similar to how North American fixtures use E26 medium bases.

Shape designations in European bulbs follow similar conventions to North American bulbs: A-shape for standard bulbs, B-shape or C-shape for candle/flame bulbs, G-shape for globe bulbs, R and BR for reflector bulbs, and various specialty shapes. However, the metric sizing system means dimensions are specified in millimeters rather than eighths of an inch. For example, a European "A60" bulb is approximately 60mm in diameter, roughly equivalent to a North American A19 bulb.

LED European bulbs have become increasingly available, offering the same energy efficiency and long life advantages as North American LED bulbs while meeting European voltage and base specifications. This is particularly valuable because LED bulbs are less affected by frequency differences between 50Hz and 60Hz power than some other technologies. A quality 240V LED E27 bulb provides an excellent, long-lasting solution for European fixtures.

For North Americans with European fixtures or appliances, using proper 120V E26/E12 bulbs with adapters is generally not recommended due to the base size differences and potential safety issues. The better solution is either using proper European 240V bulbs with a step-up transformer to convert 120V to 240V, or replacing the fixtures/appliances with North American equivalents. For Europeans in Europe, using proper 230V/240V European bulbs is straightforward – these are the standard bulbs available at any lighting store.

Base Types: E14 (Small Edison Screw - 14mm diameter), E27 (Edison Screw - 27mm diameter)

Voltage: 220-240V (European standard) - NOT compatible with North American 120V without transformer

Common Shapes: A-shape (standard), B/C-shape (candle/flame), G-shape (globe), R/BR (reflector), various specialty shapes. Sizing in millimeters (A60, B35, G45, etc.)

Applications: European fixtures and lamps, imported lighting, European appliances, international use in European countries