What Bulb For
Your answer

What bulb do I need?

Pick where the bulb goes and get the base, the shape and what to check on the box.

Where does the bulb go?

Ceiling fan lightThe light kit under a fanTable or floor lampA lamp with a shadeChandelier or wall sconceDecorative bulbs, often smallRecessed ceiling lightA can set into the ceilingBathroom vanity lightThe bulbs over the bathroom mirrorBathroom exhaust fan lightThe light in a ceiling vent fanTrack light or spotlightSmall spots on a track or in the ceilingGlass dome, globe or jar fixtureThe glass closes around the bulbRefrigerator or freezerThe light insideOven, microwave or range hoodInside the oven or microwave, or under the hoodOutdoor or porch lightA porch, wall, lantern or flood light outsideGarage door openerThe light on the opener’s motor unitLava lamp, warmer, salt lamp or night lightA bulb that melts wax, or a small plug-in lightFluorescent tube lightA long tube with two pins at each end, as in a shop lightSomething elseTell the base apart by its look

What does the base look like?

With the power off and the bulb cool, compare its base with a bulb you know.

A standard screw baseLike most table lamp bulbsA small screw baseLike a chandelier bulbA screw base between the twoOften in an applianceTwo pins you push and twistShort pins with wider endsTwo pinsStraight or looped
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How wide is the tube?

With the power off, measure across the glass, or read the code printed on the tube or its box.

About 1" acrossA code such as F32T8About 1-1/2" acrossA code such as F40T12Not sureNo code to read, or hard to measure
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What is it?

Lava lampWax that rises and falls in a glass globeWax warmerA bulb under a dish melts the wax, such as a ScentsyCandle warmer lampA lamp that shines down on a jar candleSalt lampA lamp inside a block of saltNight lightA small light that plugs into the wall
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What base does the old night light bulb have?

Unscrew the bulb and compare its metal end with a bulb you know.

A small screw baseLike a chandelier bulb’sA standard screw baseLike a table lamp bulb’sNo bulb to take outAn LED night light in one piece
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Which LAVA lamp is it?

LAVA names each of its lamps by height and model, such as the 14.5" Classic.

11.5" Accent12 oz.14.5" Classic20 oz.16.3" Premier or 17" Designer52 or 32 oz.18.5" Double Play80 oz.18.5" Royale80 oz.27" Lava Grande250 oz.Another brandNot a LAVA lamp, or not in this list
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Does the outdoor light switch itself on?

Turn the light off and give the bulb time to cool before you unscrew it.

No, it’s on a wall switchA porch, wall or lantern lightYes, at dusk, on motion or on a timerA dusk-to-dawn, motion sensor or timer light
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Which one is it?

OvenThe light at the back of the ovenMicrowaveThe light inside, or under an over-the-range microwaveRange hoodThe light under a vent hood
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What does the old hood bulb look like?

A regular-shape screw-in bulbLike a small table lamp bulbA narrow tube that screws inIts screw base is smaller than a lamp bulb’sA small screw-in reflectorCone-shaped, like a little flood lightA flat, round bulb you push and twistSet in the hood’s undersideA tiny capsule with two pinsBehind a small glass coverNo bulb to take outA built-in light behind a cover
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What base does the old microwave bulb have?

Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker, and let the bulb cool first.

A smaller screw baseBetween a lamp bulb’s and a chandelier bulb’sA standard screw baseLike a table lamp bulb’sTwo pinsStraight or loopedNo bulb to take outA built-in light behind a cover
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What does the old oven bulb look like?

With the oven cool and its power off, take off the glass cover over the bulb.

A screw-in bulbA small bulb that unscrewsA capsule with two straight pinsA small halogen that pulls straight outA capsule with two looped pinsA small halogen with loops for pinsNo bulb, an LED lightLEDs built into the oven
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What base does the appliance’s old bulb have?

Unplug the refrigerator or switch off its breaker, and let the bulb cool first.

A standard screw baseLike a table lamp bulb’sA smaller screw baseBetween a lamp bulb’s and a chandelier bulb’sTwo pinsStraight or loopedNo bulb to take outA built-in light behind a cover
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What’s on the end of the old spotlight?

Switch the light off and let the spotlight cool before you take it out.

Two straight pinsThin pins that pull straight outTwo pins you push and twistShort pins with wider endsA screw baseLike a regular bulb
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What’s in the fan’s light?

With the power off, take the grille or lens down to see the bulb.

A regular screw-in bulbLike a table lamp bulbA bulb you push in and twistIt twists into place instead of screwing inA small night light bulbNext to the main lightNo bulb, a built-in LEDThe light is part of the fanA big heat lamp bulbAn infrared bulb that gives heat
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What does the old vanity bulb look like?

Switch the light off and let the bulb cool before you take it out.

A round globeA ball of glass, about 3" across or moreA small bulb with two pinsStraight or looped pinsAnother shapeTell the base apart by its look
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What base does the can’s old bulb have?

Turn the power off and let the bulb cool before you take it out.

A screw baseLike a regular bulbTwo pins you push and twistShort pins with wider endsTwo thin straight pinsOn a small reflector cup about 2" across. They pull straight outNo bulb, a flat LED panelThe light is part of the fixture
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How many brightness levels does the lamp’s switch give?

OneJust on and offThree, from one bulbOne socket, with low, medium and high as you click
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Which base does the old bulb have?

With the power off and the bulb cool, unscrew it and look at the metal end.

A small screw baseLike a chandelier bulb’sA standard screw baseLike a table lamp bulb’sNot sureTell the base apart by its look
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What fits

Candle bulbs, often E12

Chandeliers often take candle shapes (B, C or CA). Sconces take candle, globe or standard bulbs.

On the package: E12 candelabra, such as B10 or CA10

Available on Amazon

E12 LED candle bulbs E26 LED candle bulbs
  • Match the old bulb’s shape and base. Candle bulbs come on E12, E17 and E26.

See also

Chandelier bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

A bulb rated for enclosed fixtures

Some LEDs are marked not for use in totally enclosed fixtures, because heat shortens their life.

On the package: Enclosed fixture rated

Available on Amazon

Enclosed-fixture rated LED bulbs
  • Match the old bulb’s base and shape, such as A19 E26.
  • Stay within the fixture’s maximum. Compare it with the watts under Energy Used on the box.
  • Outdoors or in a bathroom, also check for a damp or wet rating. When unsure, choose wet-rated.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
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What fits

The size and watts in your opener’s manual

Chamberlain’s openers are designed for A19 incandescent bulbs or CFLs of a similar size, up to 2.375" across and 4.43" long.

On the package: The opener manual’s size and maximum watts (A19 for Chamberlain)

Available on Amazon

Garage door opener LED bulbs Rough service bulbs
  • On a Chamberlain, leave out halogen, short-neck and specialty bulbs, and keep the bulb clear of the lens cover.
  • If you fit an LED, test the remote from where you usually use it.

See also

Garage door opener bulbsWatts to lumens
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What fits

E26 medium base

The standard US screw base. Europe’s E27 looks alike but is used mainly on 220-240 volt systems.

On the package: E26 (medium)

Available on Amazon

E26 LED light bulbs
  • Then match the shape, using the code on the old bulb, such as A19 or BR30.

See also

E26 vs E27Bulb codes
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What fits

E12 candelabra base

The small US screw base of chandeliers, nightlights and decorative fixtures.

On the package: E12 (candelabra)

Available on Amazon

E12 LED candelabra bulbs
  • Check the shape code on the old bulb as well, often a candle (B or CA) or a small globe.

See also

E12 candelabra bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

E17 intermediate base

Between E12 and E26 in size, used in microwaves, refrigerators and other appliances.

On the package: E17 (intermediate)

Available on Amazon

E17 bulbs
  • Match the old bulb’s shape too, and its watts.

See also

E17 intermediate bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

GU10 or GU24

Both push in and twist. GU10 is mostly on spotlights; GU24 also comes on regular-shaped bulbs such as an A19.

On the package: GU10, or GU24

Available on Amazon

GU10 LED bulbs GU24 LED bulbs
  • Read the code printed on the old bulb’s base or box to tell which.

See also

GU10 bulbsGU24 bulbs
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What fits

Match the code on the two-pin bulb

Small two-pin bulbs come with different bases, such as G4, GU5.3 and G9, and the bulbs don’t swap.

  • Look for the code on the old bulb or its box.
  • On a spotlight, if it’s a small reflector cup about 2" across, it’s an MR16 with a GU5.3 base, on 12 volts. For an LED, make sure the box says it works with low-voltage transformers.

See also

G9 bulbsMR16 bulbs
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What fits

A T8 tube, 1" across

T8 tubes are 8 eighths of an inch wide. Feit’s 4 ft. F32T8 uses 32 watts on a two-pin G13 base.

On the package: T8, the same length, such as F32T8 for 4 ft.

Available on Amazon

4 ft. T8 fluorescent tubes
  • Match the length and the code on the old tube.
  • An LED tube marked Type A needs a ballast on its maker’s compatibility list. Type B means rewiring the fixture, which is electrician work.

See also

T8 vs T12LED tubes
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What fits

A T12 tube, 1-1/2" across

T12 tubes are 12 eighths of an inch wide. Feit’s F40DX/2, a 4 ft. T12, uses 40 watts on a medium bi-pin base.

On the package: T12, the same length, such as F40T12 for 4 ft.

Available on Amazon

4 ft. T12 fluorescent tubes
  • Keep to the tube type the fixture or its ballast label names, even though a T8’s pins fit the same sockets.
  • For LED, Feit sells Type A tubes for T12 fixtures that work with a compatible ballast.

See also

T8 vs T12LED tubes
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What fits

Read the code on the old tube

Tube codes include a T and a number, such as F32T8 or F40T12. The T number counts eighths of an inch across.

  • T8 means 1" across, T12 means 1-1/2" and T5 means 5/8".
  • Take the old tube to the store, or note its length and code, so the new one matches.

See also

T8 vs T12LED tubes
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What fits

A bulb with the watts on the warmer’s label

The bulb’s heat melts the wax, so keep to the watts the warmer lists.

On the package: The watts on the warmer’s label

Available on Amazon

Wax warmer bulbs
  • Scentsy’s FAQ sheet says each of its warmers lists the bulb’s watts on the silver label at its base.
  • Match the old bulb’s base and shape. Feit’s 15 and 20 watt warmer bulbs have the small E12 base.

See also

Wax warmer bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

The warming bulb named for your lamp

Candle Warmers Etc. says a hardware-store bulb won’t melt the candle in its lamps.

On the package: The lamp maker’s bulb, at the watts on its label

Available on Amazon

Candle warmer lamp bulbs
  • Candle Warmers Etc. lists the bulb on each lamp’s product page: its 35 watt NP1 or 25 watt NP5.
  • For another brand, go by the lamp’s label or instructions.

See also

Candle warmer lamp bulbsWax warmer bulbs
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What fits

A bulb on the old one’s base, E12 or E17

Feit lists a 15 watt E12 bulb and a 40 watt E17 bulb for salt lamps.

On the package: E12 or E17, at the old bulb’s watts

Available on Amazon

15 watt salt lamp bulbs (E12) Salt lamp bulbs (E17)
  • Stay within the watts on the lamp’s label.

See also

Salt lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A C7 night light bulb, E12 base

The small candelabra screw base, which Feit’s 4 and 7 watt night light bulbs have.

On the package: C7, E12 (candelabra)

Available on Amazon

C7 night light bulbs (E12) LED C7 night light bulbs
  • Feit also makes an LED C7 that uses 0.6 watts in place of a 7 watt bulb.

See also

Night light bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

An S11 bulb, E26 base

Feit’s 7-1/2 watt S11 is made for night lights with the standard screw base.

On the package: S11, E26 (medium)

Available on Amazon

S11 night light bulbs (E26)
  • Feit’s LED S11 replaces that bulb and uses 0.6 watts.

See also

Night light bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A plug-in LED night light

Feit sells its plug-in LED night lights whole, with no replacement bulb listed.

  • Feit rates them at 100,000 hours. For another brand, see its instructions for any part you can replace.

See also

Night light bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A 15 watt incandescent bulb

LAVA’s chart calls it a sewing machine bulb.

On the package: 15 W incandescent

Available on Amazon

15 watt lava lamp bulbs
  • Check that its base matches the old bulb’s before you screw it in.

See also

Lava lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A 25 watt incandescent bulb

LAVA’s chart calls it a refrigerator bulb.

On the package: 25 W incandescent

Available on Amazon

25 watt lava lamp bulbs
  • Take the old one along to compare the base.

See also

Lava lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A 40 watt A15 appliance bulb

LAVA uses the same bulb in its 17" Designer and 16.3" Premier.

On the package: 40 W A15

Available on Amazon

40 watt A15 appliance bulbs
  • An A15 is a small standard-shape bulb. Match the old one’s base.

See also

Lava lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A 40 watt R50 reflector bulb

A floodlight-type bulb, in LAVA’s chart for the 18.5" Double Play.

On the package: 40 W R50 reflector

Available on Amazon

40 watt R50 reflector bulbs
  • The Royale is the same height and takes a different bulb, so check the model name on the lamp or its box.

See also

Lava lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A 60 watt R20 reflector bulb

LAVA’s bulb for the 18.5" Royale.

On the package: 60 W R20 reflector

Available on Amazon

60 watt R20 reflector bulbs
  • The Double Play is also 18.5" tall but takes a 40 watt R50, so make sure the lamp is a Royale.

See also

Lava lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A 100 watt R20F reflector bulb

For the 27" Lava Grande, the largest in LAVA’s chart, 250 oz.

On the package: 100 W R20F reflector

Available on Amazon

100 watt R20 reflector bulbs
  • Match the old bulb’s base and reflector shape.

See also

Lava lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

The bulb on your lamp’s label

LAVA’s chart covers only its own lamps.

On the package: The watts and bulb type the lamp lists

  • Use the bulb its label or instructions list.

See also

Lava lamp bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A bulb rated for wet or damp locations

Match the old bulb’s base and shape, then pick the rating for where the light hangs.

On the package: Wet rated, or damp rated under a roof

Available on Amazon

Wet-rated LED bulbs Damp-rated LED bulbs
  • Under a porch roof or an awning, a damp rating is the minimum.
  • Where rain and weather reach the fixture, as with path and garden lights, choose wet-rated. Choose wet-rated too if you’re not sure which applies.
  • A lantern whose glass closes around the bulb also needs an enclosed-fixture rating.
  • Where winters are cold, check the box for the lowest temperature the bulb starts or runs at.

See also

Outdoor light bulbsEnclosed fixtures
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What fits

A bulb the sensor can work with

A bulb’s box may say it isn’t compatible with photosensors, motion sensors or timers.

On the package: No “not compatible with photosensors, motion sensors or timers” line

Available on Amazon

Dusk-to-dawn LED bulbs Wet-rated LED bulbs
  • Skip any bulb with that warning on its box.
  • As for any outdoor light, pick damp at the least under a roof and wet out in the open.

See also

Outdoor light bulbsWatts to lumens
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What fits

An A19 bulb, E26 base

Broan’s 403602 and its economy hoods take an A19, the economy hoods on the standard E26 base. Those and its 40000 series allow 75 watts at most.

On the package: A19 E26, within the hood’s watts

Available on Amazon

A19 LED bulbs (E26)
  • Broan’s economy hoods, such as the 412401 and BUEZ130SS, are designed for an LED. With an incandescent bulb, fit Broan’s light lens, part S99110437.
  • GE’s JVX3300 and JVX3240 take a standard incandescent bulb. Replace it with the same type.

See also

Range hood bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

An E17 bulb, such as a T7

Feit lists its 40 watt T7 appliance bulb, on the E17 intermediate base, for microwaves and range hoods.

On the package: E17, often a T7

Available on Amazon

E17 T7 appliance bulbs
  • Match the old bulb’s shape and watts, and keep within the hood’s limit.

See also

Range hood bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

A PAR reflector bulb

Several GE hoods, such as the JV666 and JV535, specify a PAR20 of 50 watts at most.

On the package: The PAR code on the old bulb, such as PAR20 or PAR16

Available on Amazon

PAR20 bulbs PAR16 LED bulbs (E26)
  • Read the code on the old bulb. The number is its width in eighths of an inch, so a PAR20 is 2-1/2" across.
  • Feit lists its PAR16 LEDs, on the E26 base, for range hoods.

See also

Range hood bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

A GU10 bulb

GE’s JVX5300, JVX5305 and PVX7300 hoods have flat, round halogens at the front corners.

On the package: GU10, at the old bulb’s watts

Available on Amazon

GU10 bulbs
  • Make a loop of tape, sticky side out, and press it on the lens for a grip, or wear latex gloves.
  • Push up and turn it counterclockwise to take it out. Fit the new one and turn it clockwise.

See also

Range hood bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

A two-pin halogen, such as G4

GE’s hoods with G4 halogens take a 12 volt G4, 20 watts at most. Feit lists a 120 volt G8 LED for range hood lights.

On the package: The code on the old bulb, such as G4 (12 V)

Available on Amazon

G4 halogen bulbs (12 V)
  • G4 and G8 are different bases.
  • Take the glass cover off only when it’s cold, and pull the old bulb straight out.

See also

Range hood bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

A built-in appliance light

With no bulb to unscrew, the light is replaced as a part.

  • Unplug the appliance, then find the model number on its label and look up the light part by that number.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
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What fits

An E17 appliance bulb

The intermediate screw base, used in microwaves, refrigerators and other appliances.

On the package: E17 (intermediate)

Available on Amazon

E17 appliance bulbs
  • Match the old bulb’s shape (such as T8) and watts.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
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What fits

An appliance bulb, E26 base

The standard screw base. Small appliance bulbs such as the A15 come on it.

On the package: E26 (medium), often an A15

Available on Amazon

A15 appliance LED bulbs (E26)
  • Match the old bulb’s shape code and watts.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
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What fits

Match the two-pin bulb’s code

Two-pin bulbs come with different bases, and one kind doesn’t fit another.

  • Read the code on the old bulb or its box, such as G4 or G9, and get one with the same code.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
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What fits

A 40 watt appliance bulb

GE, Frigidaire and Whirlpool name a 40 watt appliance bulb or a small halogen, depending on the model. GE says not to use a standard 40 watt bulb.

On the package: 40 W appliance bulb

Available on Amazon

40 watt appliance bulbs
  • Check the manual for your model.
  • Match the old bulb’s base. Feit’s 40 watt A15s for ovens come on E26 or E12.

See also

Oven light bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A G6.35 halogen bulb

GE’s ovens with a straight-pin halogen take a 120/130 volt G6.35, 50 watts at most.

On the package: G6.35 halogen, 120/130 V, the manual’s watts

Available on Amazon

G6.35 halogen bulbs (120 V)
  • Hold the new bulb with gloves or a dry cloth. Touching it with bare fingers shortens its life.
  • Use the watts in your oven’s manual. Whirlpool says to check the manual for its halogen bulbs’ watts.

See also

Oven light bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A G9 halogen bulb

GE’s ovens with a looped-pin halogen take a 120/130 volt G9, 50 watts at most.

On the package: G9 halogen, 120/130 V, the manual’s watts

Available on Amazon

G9 halogen bulbs (120 V)
  • Pull the old bulb straight out, using gloves or a dry cloth.
  • Keep bare fingers off the new one, and check its watts against the manual.

See also

Oven light bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

A service call

GE says the LED lights in its ovens typically need service to replace.

  • Find the model number on the oven and contact its maker for service.

See also

Oven light bulbsLight bulb base types
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What fits

An A15 appliance bulb, E26 base

A small standard-shape bulb on the standard screw base. GE’s refrigerator LED is one.

On the package: A15 E26 (appliance)

Available on Amazon

A15 appliance LED bulbs (E26)
  • Match the old bulb’s watts or brightness.
  • In a freezer, check the box for the lowest temperature the bulb starts or runs at.

See also

A15 bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

MR16 with a GU5.3 base

A 12 volt spotlight with two pins on a small reflector, run through a transformer.

On the package: MR16 GU5.3, 12 V

Available on Amazon

MR16 LED bulbs (GU5.3, 12 V)
  • For an LED, check the box says it works with low-voltage transformers. Not every one does.
  • A GU10 won’t fit. It’s the 120 volt push-and-twist version.

See also

MR16 bulbsGU10 bulbs
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What fits

GU10 spotlight bulb

Two pins you push in and twist, on household 120 volts, used mostly in spotlights.

On the package: GU10

Available on Amazon

GU10 LED bulbs
  • MR16 spots also come with two straight pins on 12 volts, and that kind doesn’t swap with GU10.

See also

GU10 bulbsMR16 bulbs
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What fits

A PAR or BR reflector bulb

PAR bulbs are made for a focused beam, as on track lights. BR bulbs give a wider wash.

On the package: PAR20, PAR30, R20 or BR30, on E26

Available on Amazon

PAR30 LED bulbs PAR20 LED bulbs
  • Match the code on the old bulb. The number is its width in eighths of an inch, so a PAR30 is 3-3/4" across.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
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What fits

A screw-in bulb within the fan’s watts

Broan’s 750 takes an A19 up to 100 watts, and its 765H80L only an A19 LED up to 14 watts.

On the package: The type and most watts in the fan’s manual

Available on Amazon

A19 LED bulbs (E26)
  • On the 765H80L, a light that turns off or blinks may mean the wrong bulb type or watts.

See also

Bathroom fan light bulbsEnclosed fixtures
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What fits

A GU24 LED bulb

Broan’s QT130LE takes two GU24 LEDs, 10 watts each at most and 4.1" long at most.

On the package: GU24 LED, within the fan’s watts and length

Available on Amazon

GU24 LED bulbs
  • Check the length as well as the watts, so the bulb fits under the lens.

See also

Bathroom fan light bulbsEnclosed fixtures
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What fits

The night light bulb the fan lists

Broan’s 750 takes a night light bulb of 7 watts at most, and its QT130LE a 4 watt C7.

On the package: The night light watts in the fan’s manual

Available on Amazon

C7 night light bulbs (E12)
  • The QT130LE’s C7 has the small E12 base.

See also

Bathroom fan light bulbsEnclosed fixtures
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What fits

A built-in LED module

Broan’s AE80LK lights with an integrated LED module in place of a bulb.

  • The fan’s model number and its maker tell you what replaces the module.

See also

Bathroom fan light bulbsEnclosed fixtures
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What fits

A globe bulb, such as a G25

A G25 is 3-1/8" across.

On the package: G25, E26 or E12, damp rated

Available on Amazon

G25 LED globe bulbs (E26) G25 LED globe bulbs (E12)
  • Check the old bulb’s base: globe bulbs come on the standard E26 base and on the small E12.
  • Match the size code too. A G30 is bigger, 3-3/4" across.
  • Pick a bulb whose box rates it for damp locations.
  • If glass closes around the bulb, it also needs an enclosed-fixture rating.
  • Keep to the vanity light’s maximum watts. Compare it with the Energy Used on the box.

See also

Bathroom vanity bulbsEnclosed fixtures
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What fits

BR30 or BR40 reflector bulb

BR (bulged reflector) bulbs spread a wide wash of light, which suits recessed cans.

On the package: BR30 E26, or BR40 E26

Available on Amazon

BR30 LED flood bulbs BR40 LED flood bulbs
  • Measure across the can’s opening. A BR30 is 3-3/4" wide and a BR40 is 5". Makers differ on which suits a 5" or 6" can.
  • R20 and BR20 bulbs are smaller, 2-1/2" across.
  • Check the label inside the can for the bulbs and maximum watts it’s approved for.
  • Skip any bulb whose box says it isn’t for recessed fixtures.

See also

Recessed light bulbsBulb codes
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What fits

Check the built-in LED’s maker

A flat LED panel has no bulb to unscrew. Its maker and model tell you what replaces it.

  • Turn the power off at the breaker, then look for a label with the maker and model inside the fixture.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
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What fits

A19 bulb, E26 base

The standard bulb for most table and floor lamps.

On the package: A19 E26

Available on Amazon

A19 LED bulbs (E26)
  • Check the old bulb’s base. Small lamps can take the small E12 base instead.
  • To match an old 60 watt bulb, pick at least 800 lumens.
  • An A21 is a little bigger and may not fit under the shade.

See also

Table lamp bulbsWatts to lumens
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What fits

A 3-way bulb

A lamp with one socket that clicks through three levels needs a 3-way bulb. Its base has an extra contact for them.

On the package: 3-way, such as 50/100/150 W replacement (E26)

Available on Amazon

3-way LED bulbs
  • The label lists each level’s light, such as 800/1600/2500 lumens.
  • The levels come from the lamp’s switch, so the bulb doesn’t need to be dimmable. GE’s 3-way LED isn’t.
  • Check the base too. Torchiere-style floor lamps can take a large mogul (E39) 3-way bulb.

See also

3-way bulbsWatts to lumens
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What fits

E12 candelabra bulbs

The small screw base some fan light kits use. GE’s A15 ceiling fan LED has it.

On the package: E12 (candelabra)

Available on Amazon

E12 LED ceiling fan bulbs
  • Fans made from 2009 to January 2020 with these sockets can’t run more than 190 watts of bulbs in all. Check the kit’s own limit too.
  • Match the shape of the old bulb as well: standard or candle.
  • A glass bowl that closes around the bulbs calls for bulbs rated for enclosed fixtures.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
Start over

What fits

E26 medium base bulbs

The standard screw base, found in some fan light kits.

On the package: E26 (medium)

Available on Amazon

A15 LED ceiling fan bulbs (E26)
  • Fan kits take standard shapes such as A15 or A19, or candle bulbs. Pick the shape of the one you took out.
  • Inside a closed glass bowl, choose bulbs rated for enclosed fixtures.
  • Stay within the fan light’s maximum watts, comparing it with Energy Used on the new bulb’s label.

See also

Bulb codesWatts to lumens
Start over

As an Amazon Associate, What Bulb For earns from qualifying purchases.

Before you change any bulb, turn the power off and let the old bulb cool.

Common questions

What if the old bulb has no code on it?

Pick “Something else” in the finder and tell the base apart by its look (see Light Bulb Base Types), or check the bulb's box if you still have it.

What do I need from the old bulb?

Its base and shape codes, such as A19 E26, its brightness (lumens, or the watts on an old incandescent), and its light color in kelvin. Take the old bulb, or a photo of its label, to the store to match all of them.

Can I use an LED with a timer or motion sensor?

Check the box first: some LEDs are marked not compatible with timers, photocells or motion sensors.

Keep going

Light fixturesceiling fans, recessed cans, vanitiesAppliance bulbsoven, fridge, microwave, garage openerLamps and warmerslava lamps, wax warmers, night lightsBulb codes and brightnessA19, E26, base types, lumensBases and shapesGU10, MR16, E12, A19, BR30Holiday lightsstrings, fuses, C7 and C9 bulbsCords and powergauge, power strips, generatorsGuidesevery guide, by section

Where we get our information from

The bases, shapes and box wording come from the bulb makers’ own guides and product pages, ENERGY STAR (EPA), the FTC’s Lighting Facts label rule, the DOE’s ceiling fan rule, Chamberlain’s garage door opener support articles, and OSHA’s damp and wet definitions. Checked against published data from Feit Electric, ENERGY STAR, GE Lighting, Signify and LEDVANCE (plus 16 more).

See all 39 sources
  • FTC Appliance Labeling Rule, 16 CFR 305.23: the Lighting Facts label (brightness, yearly cost, life, light appearance, energy used, mercury; 3-way levels)
  • ENERGY STAR (EPA), “LED Bulbs Made Easy” purchasing guide (2020): lumens, light color, bulb types by fixture
  • ENERGY STAR Program Requirements for Lamps, Version 2.1 (2020): equivalence ranges, 3-way and reflector bulbs, packaging wording, color names
  • ENERGY STAR (EPA), “Learn About LED Lighting”: heat and LED life
  • GE Lighting, “A Guide to Light Bulb Sizes, Types, Shapes, and Codes” (2022)
  • Feit Electric, “Decoding Bulb Shapes and Sizes” (2017)
  • Philips Lighting (Signify), Lamp Specification Guide 2015: shape codes, color rendering, color names, safety notes
  • Philips Hue (Signify), “Bulb size guide”: bases, shape families, typical sizes
  • LEDVANCE, light bulb size and shape guides and “E26 vs A19” (blogs)
  • Feit Electric, recessed, flood and spot bulb pages and FAQs: BR30, BR40, PAR30, MR16 and GU10
  • Feit Electric product pages: E17 microwave bulb (BP40T8N/MW) and GU24 A19 LED (OM60DM/927CA/GU24)
  • 10 CFR 430.32(s) and (t): ceiling fan light kits and torchieres (190 W limit)
  • Chamberlain Group support, “Light Bulbs That Can Be Used in Garage Door Openers”
  • 29 CFR 1910.399: damp, dry and wet location definitions (workplace electrical rule)
  • TCP Lighting, “The Difference Between Indoor & Outdoor Light Bulbs”
  • GE Lighting, A15 LED bulbs: refrigerator bulb (40 W replacement, E26) and ceiling fan bulb (candelabra base)
  • GE Lighting, 3-way A19 LED bulb (150/100/50 W replacement, DC medium base)
  • US Consumer Product Safety Commission, Home Electrical Safety Checklist (Pub 513): bulb wattage for the fixture
  • Westinghouse Lighting, “Bulb Size” guide, and lamp catalog: shape sizes in eighths of an inch
  • Satco, SA2985 3-way lamps sheet: 100/200/300 W mogul (E39) 3-way for torchiere-style lamps
  • Chamberlain Group support, “My garage door opener light bulbs keep burning out”
  • Halo (Cooper Lighting Solutions), H7 6" recessed housings (H7ICAT IC, H7TAT non-IC): product page, spec sheet and instruction sheet
  • LEDVANCE, “BR30 vs. BR40: What’s the Difference?” (blog): bulb sizes and can sizes
  • Westinghouse Lighting, 5323000 G25 LED (6G25/LED/DIM/SW/30) specification sheet: E26, damp and enclosed ratings, compatible dimmers
  • Feit Electric, G25 filament globe LED product pages (G2560/927CA/FIL, G2540/930CA/FIL): E26, damp, enclosed fixture rated, bath and vanity
  • Feit Electric, 4W C7 E12 candelabra base night light bulb (BP4C7/W/4/RP) product page
  • LAVA (lavalamp.com), FAQ: the Replacement Bulbs chart by lamp model, how the lamp works, setup and care; and its replacement bulb pages (5015, 5025, 5032, 5041-25, 5010)
  • Scentsy, warmer bulb pages (10, 15, 20 and 25 W), a warmer's and the mini warmer bases' product pages, its FAQ (read in a browser) and the Scentsy Fragrance FAQs sheet (2013): the bulb wattage on the silver label
  • Feit Electric product pages: wax warmer and salt lamp bulbs (BP15C71/2, 15 W C7 E12; BP20G121/2, 20 W G12-1/2 E12; BP40T8N, 40 W T8 E17)
  • Candle Warmers Etc. (candlewarmers.com), FAQ; replacement bulb pages (NP1 35 W, NP5 25 W, NP7 15 W, NP3 40 W) and candle warmer lamp pages naming their bulbs
  • Feit Electric product pages: night light bulbs (BP7C7/4, 7 W C7 E12; BP7C7/827/LED/4, 0.6 W LED C7; BP71/2S and BP71/2S/CW, 7.5 W S11 E26; BP71/2S/W/LED, 0.6 W LED S11) and the NL1/LED plug-in LED night light
  • Feit Electric product pages: 40 W A15 bulbs that list ovens (40A15/CL/2/HDRP, E26; 40A15C/CL/CF/2/HDRP, E12)
  • GE Appliances support articles: oven light replacement (glass cover, and glass cover with wire holder); under-cabinet vent hood light bulbs; PAR20 and G4 halogen vent hood lamps
  • Frigidaire use and care manuals (on Electrolux's server): electric range, p/n 316417064 (2005), and induction range, A26582003 (2023): changing the oven light
  • Whirlpool product help, “Removing and Replacing the Oven Light” (read in a browser)
  • Feit Electric product pages: bulbs that list range hoods (BP40T7N-130, 40 W T7 E17; PAR1645DM/6WYCA/2 and PAR16DM60/930CA/2, PAR16 LED E26; BP20G8/850/LED, G8 LED)
  • Broan-NuTone range hood pages and manuals: 403602 and the 40000, 41000 and 42000 series installation guide; 412401, F403011 and BUEZ130SS and the economy hoods quick start manual
  • Broan-NuTone fan and light pages and installation guides: 750 (100 W light, 7 W night light), QT130LE (10 W GU24 LED, 4 W C7 night light), 765H80L (A19 E26 LED up to 14 W) and AE80LK (integrated LED module)
  • Feit Electric tube pages: F40DX/2 and F20T12/CW/2 (T12) and F32T8/941/2 (T8) fluorescent tubes, T1248/4CCT/LED/2 and T48/840/LED/2 Type A LED tubes, and its LED tube ballast compatibility page

General guidance from manufacturer and standards data. Products vary, so check the label and the maker's instructions.