Is the metalbrite ES smooth skirt lampholder right for me? 

by Deryck Smith

Related content: 

Using braided flex

Taking apart an ES lampholder when it's stuck

• Intro

• What is this product?

• Pros and Cons

• How to use it (video coming)

• What light bulb does it take?

• When should I buy it?

• How do I buy it?

• Further Learning

I have wired thousands of these lampholders during my time at Lampfix. I love them but I know they are not everyone's cup of tea.

I can tell you the good things, the bad things and show you how to wire it. 

I want to help you make the right choice.

What is this product?

This is a lampholder. It is the bit of a light that holds the light bulb. This particular version mounts a hanging cable, bulb facing down. I have heard them referred to as bulb holders, sockets, fixtures, you name it.  It is a metal lampholder so it has an earth terminal located inside.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Its made from solid brass

• Made in Britain

• Ceramic insert

• Won't burn out

• Long-lasting

• Easy to use

• Good looking

Cons

• Doesn't hold a shade

• Expensive (compared to other lampholders)

• Cannot use it with 2 core cable -  (Class 1 fittings need earthing)

How to use it

We recommend you are competent at electrics to do this. If in doubt you should consult an electrician.
Watch the video on the picture slider above showing how to wire this lampholder. 

What light bulb does it take?

This lampholder takes an E27 or 'ES' bulb.  An ES bulb has a screw cap on it, 27mm wide, and one of the most common bulbs in the UK.

When should I buy it?

in the following scenarios:

• to wire to existing cable set you already have

• to replace an existing lampholder

• need it with other pendant light parts like the cable and ceiling rose.

Here is an article where you can learn more about making your own pendant light.

How do I buy it?

You can buy 1 or more here on this webpage.

We store them here in boxes of 10.

The price reduces on 10, 25, 50 & 100 pieces.

You can buy on this page or via a local dealer (you can quote us to most electrical wholesalers and lighting shops). Dealers set their own pricing.

If you are in the market for our products for the long term you could become a dealer/trade buyer.  Read our article 'Is Lampfix a good fit for my business?'

Request your log in where you can view and buy at your own discounted pricing. (contact us)

Further learning

Article: How to make a pendant