If you've ever had to change a light globe in an Australian home, chances are you've performed that classic, familiar action: a firm push, a slight twist, and a satisfying click. The globe you were holding was almost certainly a B22 light bulb.

For generations, this fitting has been the undisputed standard in Aussie households. While other types have become more common, the B22 remains the true blue, iconic light fitting for millions of us. Let's take a closer look at this old favourite.

So, What Exactly is a B22 Light Bulb?

It might sound a bit technical, but it's really simple. B22 is the code name for the standard-sized Bayonet Cap (BC) fitting that is so common in Australia and the UK.

Let's break down the code:

• 'B' stands for Bayonet, which describes the push-and-twist style of fitting.
• '22' refers to the diameter of the metal base, which is 22mm.

You can spot a B22 light bulb instantly by the two small pins that stick out from opposite sides of its smooth, cylindrical base. These are the pins that lock into the L-shaped slots of the light fitting.

Spot the Difference: The B22 Bayonet vs. The E27 Screw

The main rival to the B22 is the E27 Edison Screw. Here’s the simple difference:

• B22 Bayonet: Our classic Aussie 'push-and-twist' hero. It has two pins on a smooth base.
• E27 Edison Screw: The international 'screw-in' type. It has a threaded base that you twist in like a bottle cap.

While the E27 is becoming more popular with modern, imported light fixtures, the B22 is still found in the majority of existing homes across the country.

Why is the B22 Such an Aussie Staple?

The B22 fitting became the standard in Australia for a few good reasons. The push-and-twist mechanism is quick and easy to use, and the spring-loaded socket in the light fitting provides a secure connection that is resistant to vibrations, which was a big plus in the early days of lighting. This reliability is why it has remained a favourite for so long.

When Your Light Fitting Needs an Upgrade

While changing a globe is a dead-easy DIY job that anyone can do, it's important to know your limits.

If your whole light fitting is looking a bit worse for wear—maybe the plastic has become old and brittle, the wiring looks dodgy, or you simply want to swap it for a new, modern style—this is not a job for a DIYer. Replacing the actual hardwired light fitting on your ceiling or wall is a job that must be done by a licensed electrician. A qualified professional can safely and legally swap the fitting over, ensuring it's wired correctly and to Australian standards.

Whether you're replacing a globe for a classic fitting or upgrading the entire fixture, starting with high-quality, reliable gear is the key to a great result. For a complete range of modern lighting solutions that cater to every type of fitting, it pays to check out a trusted electrical supplier like Schnap Electric Products. They stock a huge variety of high-quality LED globes, including all the classic B22 light bulb options to fit your existing lights. On top of that, they are a leading supplier of the trade-quality light fittings, switches, and components that professional installers use to create safe and stylish lighting systems. For everything you need from the globe to the fitting, a quality supplier like Schnap Electric has you covered.