Norman Lamps, Inc.

In tribute to the classic (A) shape light bulbs of the last century, modern A-Type LEDs continue the same overall shape and dimension. It is often asked, "Is the design necessary when paired with LEDs?" LED lamps do not use a vacuum like their incandescent counterparts; so why make them in this arbitrary shape? There are a few appropriate answers. The most common being; the (A) bulb shape is efficient at uniformly distributing both the heat and light output. Low heat and near omnidirectional output are important principals in modern LED lamps. Other answers include the ease in retrofitting to existing incandescent lamp fixtures and the general public's familiarity with the classic A-Type light bulb shape. The modern A-Type LED comes with a few more features up its sleeve. Starting with near 10 x efficacy in light output and rated life hours compared to incandescent lamps. Another unique feature are the multiple color temperatures to choose from: available in 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, 5000K, and 6500K

A19 and A15 LED bulbs represent the two most common sizes in the A-Type family, with the numbers indicating diameter in eighths of an inch. A19 bulbs measure 19/8 inches (approximately 2.375 inches) in diameter, making them the standard household bulb size that fits in virtually every lamp, ceiling fixture, and wall sconce. A15 bulbs at 15/8 inches (1.875 inches) are more compact, commonly used in ceiling fans, smaller fixtures, and appliances where the standard A19 would be too large or visually overwhelming.

The energy savings with A-Type LEDs are substantial and measurable. A typical 9-watt A19 LED produces light equivalent to a 60-watt incandescent while using 85% less electricity. Over the bulb's 15,000-25,000 hour lifespan, that translates to $100-150 in energy savings per bulb at average electricity rates, not to mention eliminating 15-25 incandescent bulb replacements. For a typical home with 30-40 bulbs, switching to LED A-Type bulbs can reduce lighting energy consumption by hundreds of dollars annually while virtually eliminating the hassle and expense of frequent bulb changes.

Color temperature selection allows you to customize the ambiance and functionality of each space. The warm white options (2700K-3000K) produce light similar to traditional incandescent bulbs – that familiar, comfortable glow that works well in living rooms, bedrooms, dining areas, and anywhere you want inviting, relaxing illumination. Moving up to 4000K provides crisper, more energizing white light suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices where task lighting and alertness matter. The daylight options (5000K-6500K) deliver very white, vibrant light that some people prefer for reading, detailed work, or spaces like garages and workshops. There's no "right" choice – it depends on personal preference and how you use each space.

Dimming compatibility has improved dramatically with modern A-Type LEDs, though it's still not quite as universal as with incandescent bulbs. Look for bulbs specifically labeled "dimmable" if you need dimming capability, and be aware that older dimmer switches designed for incandescent loads may cause flickering, buzzing, or limited dimming range with LED bulbs. In many cases, upgrading to an LED-compatible dimmer switch resolves these issues and provides smooth dimming performance from 100% down to 10% or less. The investment in a new dimmer (typically $15-30) pays off in proper operation and the satisfying ability to adjust lighting to match activities and moods.

The base type for virtually all A19 and A15 LED bulbs is the standard medium screw base (E26 in North America, E27 internationally), ensuring compatibility with existing fixtures. This universal compatibility is one of the key advantages of A-Type LEDs – they're true drop-in replacements requiring no fixture modifications, no special installation, and no technical knowledge. Simply screw them into any socket that previously held an incandescent or CFL bulb, and they work immediately with no warm-up time and no flickering.

Smart bulb options in A-Type LEDs have opened up new possibilities for lighting control and automation. WiFi-enabled LED bulbs can be controlled via smartphone apps, integrated with voice assistants (Alexa, Google Home, Siri), programmed with schedules and scenes, and even adjusted remotely when you're away from home. Color-changing smart bulbs expand the possibilities further, allowing you to select from millions of colors for mood lighting, parties, or matching lighting to activities. While smart bulbs cost more than standard LEDs ($15-40 versus $3-8), they add convenience and functionality that many homeowners find valuable.

Specialty A-Type LEDs address specific needs: three-way bulbs for lamps with three-way sockets (providing low/medium/high settings), sensor bulbs with integrated motion or dusk-to-dawn sensors, bug light LEDs with yellow coatings that don't attract insects, and various decorative options including vintage-style bulbs with exposed LED filaments that replicate the classic Edison bulb aesthetic while providing all the LED efficiency and longevity advantages.

Common Applications: General household lighting (lamps, ceiling fixtures, wall sconces), ceiling fans (A15), bathroom vanities, hallway and stairway fixtures, porch and entry lights, commercial and office lighting, hospitality settings, retail environments, virtually any application requiring general illumination

Key Advantages: 80-90% energy savings versus incandescent, 15,000-25,000 hour lifespan, instant-on (no warm-up), wide range of color temperatures, dimmable options available, cool operation, universal compatibility with existing fixtures, mercury-free and environmentally friendly

Typical Wattages: 5-7W (40W equivalent), 9-11W (60W equivalent), 13-15W (75-100W equivalent). Choose based on desired brightness and fixture size.