- What size should my dining room chandelier be?
For round tables, measure the diameter and subtract 12 inches for the maximum diameter of the fixture.
Example: 48" table = 36" maximum light diameter.
Note: For an oval or rectangular table, measure the width and do the same as above.
- What will give me the best light over my vanity?
If the bathroom is one where makeup is applied and shaving is done, hang lights directing up; this will give you a softer light, dispersing it more evenly, and will help eliminate shadows on the face. Adding scones on either side of the mirror in addition to an overhead vanity light is best. Halogen vanity lights and wall scones must point upwards for heat to be able to escape.
- Can I use outdoor lights inside?
Yes. This is a nice change for a more rustic, sometimes even a more contemporary feel. Just be sure not to use indoor lights outdoors as they are not rated for safety in damp environments.
- How high should my table / floor lamps be in my living room / office?
Lampshades should be at eye level so you won't have the glare of the bulbs in your eyes.
- How high should my bedside table lamps be?
The bottom of the lampshades should be even with your shoulders, so your head won't create a shadow onto what you are reading.
- Can I put a dimmer on this light?
A dimmer can be added to any incandescent light. Halogens as well, but if the fixture is on a transformer (low voltage), a magnetic dimmer must be used. Fluorescent bulbs do not dim well.
- How can I make my lights more energy efficient?
Replace regular incandescent bulbs with CFL's (compact fluorescent lamps). Keep in mind that the higher the wattage of the CFL, the larger the ballast and the glass envelope will be – you don't want your bulbs sticking out past the glass shade of a fixture.
- Should I use a frosted or a clear bulb in this fixture?
If a fixture has frosted glass, it would be best to pair it with a frosted bulb, otherwise the filament in a regular incandescent bulb may be visible through the frosted glass.
- Is there a light which will match this one?
There is usually a family of lights (ie. a flush-mounted light will have a chandelier and a pendant to go with it). This allows the customer to create a better flow throughout the space.
- My chandelier is not giving off enough light, even with the maximum wattage. What can I do?
Add recessed lighting around the chandelier to give the illusion that the chandelier is providing all the light.
- Which way should my fan be rotating in the summer?
In the summer, your fan should be going counter-clockwise (based on you looking up at the fan) for a cooling effect. During the winter, there should be a clockwise blade rotation for a heating effect (hot air will be pushed down).
