Chandelier FAQ: Answers About Owning And Operating A Chandelier

* Are all chandeliers made of crystal?

No. Traditional chandeliers are made of crystal, but there are many types of chandeliers available on the market that are made of wrought iron, alabaster, and more.


* What voltage do chandeliers come in?

Chandeliers come in 120 volts to 240 volts. It is important that you know what voltage your country has before buying a chandelier.

In the United States you should use 120 volt light bulbs in our chandelier. You can find the voltage written on the bulb, usually right under the wattage, such as "60 watts, 120v"


* What types of light bulbs should I use with a chandelier?

It depends on what type of light you want to have in a room. There are candlelight bulbs that give the effect of a candle, an extra bright light bulb, and there are even light bulbs that flicker to give the impression of candles being blown by the wind.


* How big should my chandelier be?

Estimating the size of a chandelier to be used is not a precise skill. Most interior designers normally advise that your chandelier should depend on the size of your space. If you have a 13 x 15 foot room, for instance, it is suggested that you pick a chandelier with a minimum diameter of 28 inches.


* What is the best way to clean a chandelier?

The best way to clean a chandelier is: First, dust the chandelier using a feather duster. Make sure that the chandelier is switched off, so that the lights are not hot when cleaning it. Second, put a big garbage bag under it and spray a chandelier cleaner over the entire chandelier. Let it dry for a moment. Lastly, wipe the chandelier to make it look like new.


* What precautions should I take to ensure that a chandelier does not fall?

In order to ensure that your chandelier does not fall, you should know how to properly install it. Consider the following safety precautions on how to correctly install a chandelier:

- You can hang the chandelier in the place where you once put your ceiling or drop fixtures.

- If your chandelier is heavy, check the ceiling box to make sure that the chandelier is mounted securely.

- If your chandelier has any instructions given by the manufacturer, read them carefully and follow them in detail.

- The chandelier should be screwed in firmly to have enough support.

- Before switching the chandelier on, make sure that it is mounted tightly and securely.


* Will my house insurance cover the chandelier?

If you have customized your homeowners insurance policy and decided to include the chandelier in your insurance coverage, then it is covered by your insurance.

Indy Clasby is editor of iChandelier, the online guide to Chandeliers. She also writes Chandelier FAQ's for PrettyGreatAnswers.com.