Thread Mounted Lampholders: A Comprehensive Guide

11 January 2024 by
Thread Mounted Lampholders: A Comprehensive Guide
​Lampfix, Deryck Smith



When it comes to making or repairing table lamps, chandeliers, or wall lights, the choice of thread-mounted lampholders plays a crucial role. In this guide, we explore the various aspects of lampholders for thread mounting, including thread sizes, cap options, converters, and considerations for different types of fittings.


Thread Sizes Catered for:


Our thread-mounted lampholders are available in a range of thread sizes to accommodate diverse lighting fixtures. Whether you're working with table lamps, chandeliers, or wall lights, we cater to thread sizes such as 10mm, half inch, 20mm, 5/8", and 3/4". It's important to note that not all cap sizes are available in every thread size. To find the perfect fit, we recommend checking the availability in our thread-mounted lampholders shop category.


Cap Options:


We understand the importance of versatility in lighting solutions. That's why our range of lampholder caps is wide, including ES, BC, SES, SBC, G9, GU10, E12 (American), E10, and E26 (American). Whether you need a lampholder for a traditional British lamp or an American-style fixture, we have you covered.


Adapting Threads: Reducers and Increasers


Sometimes, the challenge lies in adapting threads to ensure a perfect fit. Our reducers and increasers come to the rescue. Reducers like 10mm-8mm, 1/2" to 10mm, 1/2" to 3/8", 1/2" to 1/8" IP (USA) and 5/8" to 1/2" fit into the thread entry of the lampholder, reducing it to a smaller thread. Conversely, increasers such as 10mm to half inch, 10mm to 20mm and french thread adaptors enable the lampholder to connect to a larger or different thread.


For those with engineering expertise, taps and dies are valuable tools to adapt existing threads. Available in half inch or 10mm sizes, they provide flexibility in achieving a perfect match for your specific needs.


Switch Options and Considerations:


Some lampholders come with built-in switches. These are available in metal BC, plastic BC which have a push bar switch, and plastic ES types which have a rocker switch, and a rare and expensive pull chain switch ES type.  


If you use an inline switch (which is usually fitted about a foot away from the lamp base, on the cable), you do not need a switched lampholder. Also, when the mounting of the lampholder is fragile (ie on a pottery lamp) we recommend the switch is kept seperate from the lampholder.


Shade Ring Considerations:


For those who wish to add shades to their lighting fixtures, the inclusion of a shade ring is crucial. While many lampholders come with a shade ring, it's advisable to double-check the product page for confirmation. We offer a range of shade rings that can be ordered separately.



Metal or Plastic? Choosing the Right Material: 


If the light fitting you are attaching the lampholder to is made of metal, lacks double insulation, and does not already have a plastic lampholder, we recommend opting for a metal lampholder. Metal lampholders come equipped with an earth terminal, ensuring the entire light fitting is properly grounded for safety. Metal lampholders offer a wider colour range, whereas plastic is largely limited to black and white.


In conclusion, selecting the right lampholder for thread mounting involves considering thread sizes, cap options, converters, switch preferences, shade ring requirements, and the material of the fitting. By exploring our extensive range and checking product compatibility, you can create your light with style and safety.

Thread Mounted Lampholders: A Comprehensive Guide
​Lampfix, Deryck Smith 11 January 2024
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