Hanging lamps range from simple to very ornate.
Hanging lamps are a common form of home lighting. They range from simple, modern fixtures to ornate chandeliers with decorative bulbs and other flourishes. In all cases, a hanging lamp needs to be constructed properly to avoid risk of falling. There are several things that go into a hanging lamp to make it beautiful and safe.
Fixture
One of the central components to any hanging lamp is the lighting fixture. This is similar in construction to the fixture on a floor lamp or desk lamp. Some hanging lamps may have inverted fixtures, so that the bulbs will point downward. Others, however, use upright bulbs to produce more diffused light or create the illusion of candle flames.
Bulb
Hanging lamps use a variety of bulb types. Lamps with a glass shade must be fitted with bulbs that are small enough to avoid contact with the shade. Other open lamp styles can accommodate energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs. Chandelier-style lamps may have fixture sockets for smaller wattage bulbs, such as decorative flame-shaped bulbs.
Shade
Most hanging lamps that don't use flame-shaped bulbs have some kind of shade. This can be a decorative glass, plastic, or wicker dish that diffuses the light and adds color to the room. Paper lantern shades are also popular for , providing very soft, even light over a broad area.
Electrical Box
The electrical box is mounted in the ceiling opening and contains a connection to the house's electrical supply, as well as a mount to support the weight of the lamp. Be sure to check the weight rating on your electrical box to ensure it can handle the weight of a new hanging lamp. For larger or heavier lamps, you may need to install a new, heavy-duty electrical box.
Chain
The chain supports the weight of the lamp, attaching to the lighting fixture at one end and the electrical box at the other end. The chain can be a series of metal links or a solid tube that contains the wiring. In any case, the chain needs to be strong enough to support the hanging lamp and the proper height to best illuminate the room.
Wiring
The wires for the lamp run through the chain but do not actually support the lamp's weight. One exception are some paper lantern kits, which use a strong wire to serve as both the chain and power supply for a single bulb with a lightweight fixture and chain.
Medallion
The medallion is a decorative cover placed at the top of the chain to conceal the electrical box and ceiling opening. In some cases homeowners install a larger canopy that covers or replaces the medallion. This creates the appearance of the lamp descending from a decorative circle in the ceiling.
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