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Chandeliers have come a long way from being the exclusive domain of the wealthy's mansions, castles, and palaces. While there are still some stunning chandeliers that are only affordable to a select few, with prices ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 or more, there are plenty of beautiful and affordable options for the average home. These options can also be used to decorate a variety of rooms in a home, including the living room, foyer, and dining room. With so many options, knowing some insider tips on how to shop for the best chandeliers for a space is beneficial. Continue reading to find out how to narrow down your options and see our top picks for some of the best chandeliers to add beauty and elegance to your home.
Chandeliers were once thought to be only for formal lighting, mostly in dining rooms. However, some chandeliers are now quite affordable, making it possible to include them in almost any room of a home. So, if you are thinking about adding a chandelier to a room in your home, here are some pointers on how to select a chandelier that will be an ideal showpiece in the space.
Chandelier Styles
There are many different types of chandeliers to choose from when shopping for chandeliers. A fancy chandelier for a grand foyer, for example, could be a tiered traditional crystal chandelier or resemble a dramatic waterfall of lights. A candelabra lamp that looks like it uses real candlesticks is a nostalgic option that harkens back to the days when candlelight illuminated homes. Some of them also have small shades around each light bulb. Drum chandeliers, mini chandeliers, and other modern options such as Sputnik style, globe, and futuristic are also available.
Chandeliers are made from a variety of materials, including metal, crystal, and glass. If matching a chandelier to the type of decor in a home is the goal, there are chandelier styles that fit many interior decor styles such as rustic, midcentury modern, industrial, modern, and more. Chandelier-style pendant lights with lights that hang like chandeliers but only have one bulb in the fixture are available for those who do not like chandeliers with many light bulbs.
Dimensions and Weight
The size and weight of a chandelier are important considerations. If the chandelier's weight exceeds the capacity of the ceiling box, it may fall. Most boxes can typically support between 50 and 75 pounds of weight, so if the chosen light fixture is heavier, the ceiling will require additional structural bracing. The length of the wiring or chain must also be considered. The hanging height of a chandelier is determined by the room, furniture placement, and ceiling height. If a chandelier is desired for a living room, it can hang lower if it is placed above a table rather than nothing below it. Otherwise, family members or visitors risk bumping their heads every time they try to pass beneath it.
Installation and positioning
The location of a chandelier is an important consideration. Typically, a chandelier hung in a foyer is not the same as one hung in a living room. Because the ceiling in the foyer may be higher, the one in the foyer may be able to hang much longer than the one in the living room. Another factor to consider is installation. Some chandeliers may be simple to install because they are replacing an existing fixture in a home. It may be as simple as disconnecting the old fixture and connecting the new one to turn off the breaker box, remove the old light, and replace it with the new one.
Other chandeliers may be more difficult to install because they may require some rewiring. So, when deciding on the best type of chandelier, consider who will install it.
Bulb Style
Unlike lamps or other types of lighting, chandeliers typically cast their light upward rather than downward. However, because chandeliers typically have multiple lights, they can become overwhelming, especially if they have a high wattage. With incandescent bulbs, higher watts may not only produce a strong glare but also produce an uncomfortable amount of heat. If you intend to use traditional high-watt light bulbs in a chandelier, it may be a good idea to select a dimmable fixture so that the amount of light can be controlled. Dimmable lighting can help create different moods in the dining room, which is a nice option.
Ease of Maintenance
Cleaning a chandelier can be a difficult task. This is due to the fact that many chandeliers have extremely delicate parts. Some chandeliers can become unsightly due to dust, cobwebs, and other elements. The best way to keep them clean is to gently remove dust with a soft cotton cloth. If the dust and dirt are caked on from years of neglect, a commercial-grade chandelier cleaning solution may be required. Trying to reach it can be another challenge when cleaning. If your chandelier is high up in your foyer, cleaning it may be difficult. Fortunately, cleaning gadgets and professional chandelier cleaning services are available to safely and adequately clean chandeliers. To avoid the difficulty of cleaning a chandelier, select one that is easy to maintain from a distance.
How high should a chandelier be hung?
The answer to this question is determined by the location of the chandelier. If it is over an open floor, it should be 7 feet above the floor. If you're hanging it above a kitchen island or table, aim for 32 to 34 inches above the table or island.
How do I change the bulbs in very tall chandeliers?
Long sticks with suction cups on the end can be used to unscrew the old bulb and replace it in a pendant type of chandelier. A platform ladder, on the other hand, can help provide access to the light bulbs and stability while changing them in tall chandeliers with multiple bulbs.
What is the best way to clean a chandelier?
Because paper towels can scratch the material, it is best to clean a chandelier with a soft cotton cloth. However, if your chandelier is too high for you to reach or you're unsure which cleaners to use on it, you should contact the manufacturer or a cleaning professional who specializes in chandelier cleaning.
In conclusion,finding the best chandelier for your home is a matter of personal preference. There are many different factors to consider, such as size, style, and price. With so many options available, it's important to do your research before making a purchase. By taking the time to find the right chandelier for your space, you can create a beautiful and inviting atmosphere in your home.