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Proper lighting is as essential to an enjoyable game of pool as a level table and a straight cue. Too little light can throw off depth perception, while too much light can cause distracting glare. Uneven lighting can cast deceiving shadows and distort the appearance of angles. This may sound like a complicated problem to overcome, but today's pool table lights are specifically designed to provide uniform light at the optimal level of illumination. Our job is to make sure all this ingenuity is fully utilized when you hang our pool table lights properly, which requires adhering to a few professionally suggested guidelines. |
Determining the proper height for hanging a pool table light is of the utmost importance. Hang it too low, and players are likely to accidentally strike it with their cues. Too high, and the light is likely to shine in players' eyes. About thirty two inches above the bed of the table is considered the average hanging height for a pool table light. A more general way to determine optimum height is to hang the light so the bottom of the fixture is level with the bridge of the player's nose.
While the above suggestions are a great place to start, the final result should be the determining factor. Remember, the function of a pool table light is to illuminate only the pool table, not to provide light for the room. The edge of the field of light cast by the source should line up with the edge of the table. This technique is also useful in determining if the pool table light is centered. Always center your light lengthwise along the table, which can be done rather easily by aligning the middle of the light with the middle white diamonds at the ends of the table.
All these guidelines are great, but what if you're installing your pool table light before the table arrives? In this case, aim for between 62 and 70 inches from the floor, and be prepared to make some minor adjustments. Use the bridge of your nose as a guide.
The little extra effort you put forth in hanging your pool table light correctly will pay off with every game you play. Not only will your pool table light flood your table with flattering and uniform illumination, it will create a warm, welcoming atmosphere in your game room as well. Just like in the game of pool, precision and execution mean a lot less work in the long run.
