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View Full Version : Using a twin bulb adapter in a 3-way lamp socket


Bonehead999
Jun 20, 2008, 07:44 PM
In order to increase the light output from a lamp, I've purchased a twin socket adapter (shaped like a Y) that screws into the existing socket.

The lamp has a 3-way socket that works fine with a 1-way compact screw-in fluorescent bulb.

However, when I screw in the adapter with two compact fluorescent bulbs, it doesn't work. (I've tried a couple twin adapters.)

Any thoughts?

WallyHelps
Jun 21, 2008, 08:50 AM
My thoughts are that it should work. The only thing about putting a 1-way bulb in a 3-way socket is that there are 2 positions on the switch that are off and 2 that are on.

My only other thought is that the way the Y adapter is made may prevent it from making contact in the 3-way socket. In a 3-way socket, there is an additional contact (seen in the photo at lower right) that might be interfering with the Y-adapter. You could try replacing the 3-way socket with a standard socket and see if that works. You could try in a different (1-way) lamp first to see if my theory is correct.

Good luck,
WallyH

Bonehead999
Jun 21, 2008, 11:32 AM
Thanks, Wally.

I'll try what you suggested.

ceilingfanrepair
Jun 21, 2008, 02:15 PM
I think Wally is correct. I seem to remember these adapters do not work in two way sockets.