Making the Shot on How to Light a Pool Table

If you have a pool table in your game or family room, then you need to know how to light a pool table. Pool requires a lot of precision shots and they’re much easier to line up when there’s enough light. There are a variety of light configurations you can use to adequately light the table, and the one you choose is a matter of personal preference.

The best lights for a pool table hang right over the table. In general, the bottom of the light shade should be between 31 and 36 inches from the top of the table. Pool table lights are often designed to hang by chains from the ceiling and they become a decorative item in addition to being practical.

How to Light a Pool Table

The wattage in the bulbs you use in the pool table light should be 60 watts. Most pool table lights use a series of bulbs to light the table from one end to another. They are normally quite ornamental and are made using a variety of materials. You can find lights made out of copper, brass, glass and faux stained glass. The shade is rectangular to match the rectangular shape of the pool table.

But when you are deciding how to light a pool table in your house, there is a second type of light that’s as popular as the rectangular shade lights. The bar lights have a series of shades on a bar and hang from the ceiling like the rectangular shade. The bar may be brass and the shades can be brass, metal or glass. You can buy 2, 3 or 4 shade bars for pool table lighting.

Both kinds of lights properly illuminate your pool table so you can see even the dark pocket corners. Hanging the lights low over the table eliminates shadows that could interfere with play.

Pool table lights come pre-wired and the wires are normally hidden in the chain or bar that goes to the ceiling. They are easy to install as long as you know how to connect electrical wires for lights. If you don’t understand how to install light wiring, then you should obtain the services of a professional electrician.

When you shop for pool lights, you’ll find a large choice of shades. The rectangular lights usually have some kind of logo or writing on them. You can find sports team logos, hobby logos, pool logos and company logos that are popular in restaurant and bar decors. You can look at the different kinds of lights online and order the one you want to be delivered to your home. If you carefully follow the directions you’ll have no problem learning how to light a pool table.