E14 socket type - applications, advantages and disadvantages
The minion base is one of the two most popular sizes for household lighting. For a detailed introduction to E14 it is necessary to study the scope of its application, the main varieties and the nuances of choice.
Marking: what E14 means
The designation of light bulb sockets in most cases consists of a letter and numbers. In this particular example, the Latin letter "E" is used, it indicates belonging to the Edison lamps (screw). The number 14 refers to the diameter of the circumference of the base itself.
People often make the mistake of thinking that the higher the number, the more powerful the lamp, but this is not true. The size is important in compatibility with the lighting fixture, if the luminaire has an E14 socket, then you need the same lamp. As a last resort, you can use an adapter.
As for the scope of application, E14 is suitable for domestic tasks. It is used in pendant and wall lamps, table lamps, small sconces. Minions are also used as built-in lighting for appliances: microwaves, ovens, refrigerators.
Comparison of E14 and E27
The bases of these sizes - the most popular in the domestic sphere, and many do not know what the difference between them, and which option to choose for lighting your home. In fact, there are not many differences in performance characteristics, and the design difference is the dimensions.
What is the difference:
- Dimensions. Designation bulbs tells you the diameter, if the mignons have 14 mm, then the E27 - respectively, 27 mm.
![E14 socket type - uses, pros and cons]()
Dimensions of popular sizes. - Lighting angle. Applies only to LED lamps, minions due to their compact size, this angle is 360 degrees, and E27 - slightly less.
- Where is it used. Both sizes are used mainly for domestic purposes, but E27 can also be used in a small industrial room or for street lighting, and E14 - in household appliances.
Types of E14 bulbs, their features
Even in the same size there are several variants of light bulbs with their own design features, cost and principle of operation.
Incandescent bulb
The oldest type of lighting elements, its bulb is made of glass, and inside is an incandescent filament. In operation it produces not the most powerful, but even light.
Energy saving lamps (CFL)
Instead of a traditional glass bulb, the design of these bulbs is spiral-shaped. There are mercury vapors inside, and the spiral helps to save space. Energy-saving bulbs are capable of delivering up to 70 Lm/W of luminous flux.
Halogen
They work the same way as incandescent bulbs, but with one difference - in the bulb there are additionally inert gas vapors. It is they that help to amplify luminous flux.
LED
Light bulbs with high light power and the longest possible life, which can be tens of thousands of hours.
What shapes E14 comes in
In minions, the most popular version of the bulb is the traditional "candle", it is used in most pendant lights. Its modified version with an elongated top can be found in sconces.
Another option is the "candle flame." These are beautiful and expensive bulbs, but they are used in interiors where no plafonds are provided, because it makes no sense to cover them.
In closed lighting fixtures, the most affordable options are used - "pear", "ball", "ellipsoid". To complete the household appliances fit lamps with a narrowing to the base.
How to choose an E14 bulb
Light bulbs on the market with the type of base E14 is quite a lot. To choose the right option, you need to take into account:
- Power. In addition to traditional measurements, many manufacturers also indicate the area for which the bulb is designed.
- Dimensions, shape. Not only practicality depends on them, but also the cost and decorative component.
- Company-manufacturer. It is better to trust well-known companies whose products have a reputation for reliability.
- Requirements for the voltage in the network. If the network at home does not meet the parameters of the light bulb, it will badly affect its efficiency and durability.
- Integrity. Before buying the product, be sure to take it out of the box, examine it for scratches, chips, other damage.
Additional information. When buying LED bulbs under the E14 socket also take into account the glow temperature, power, the ability to adjust.
Compatibility of minions with lighting fixtures
Light bulb E14 when connected directly will only work with lighting fixtures that have the appropriate socket size. Otherwise, it will not produce light, even if the dimensions are only slightly different. In such situations, additional adapters are needed.
Using special adapters
Sometimes there are situations where you need to connect to the socket minion E27, or two. To do this, there are special adapters, they are inexpensive and do not affect the intensity of lighting, but a little extend the design. There are adapters between different types of bases, for example - from G to E.