Lamp Installation

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Lamp Installation

Where should I consider installing American Gas Lamp Works lamps?

Most gas lamps, whether gas mantle or open flame, are used to accent the exterior of a home or building. Our lamps and torches add drama and excitement to entrances, outdoor entertainment areas, walkways and drives. AGLW gas lamps can be mounted next to doorways, on walls, on posts, or on decorative piers. AGLW’s GasGlow® LED and electric candelabra lamps, which use electric energy, can be mounted almost anywhere, including the interior of homes and businesses.

Who can install my American Gas Lamp Works light fixtures?

Depending on the type of fuel you choose, gas or electric, we recommend that you coordinate installation with trained professional personnel. For AGLW gas lamps, please use a professional gas lighting specialist or an experienced local plumber. Our GasGlow® LED and electric candelabra fixtures can be installed by an electrician for dependable service. We recommend that you order your lamp early in the construction process so both the plumber and electrician are familiar with your lamp and its requirements at rough in. Most of our lamps are equipped with tempered glass to protect against thermal and physical shock.

What mounting options do you offer?

All of our lamps can be post-, pier-, or wall-mounted, and all of our mounts can be powder coated to match the finish you select for your lamp fixtures.

What kind of clearance is required for installing a gas lamp?

The minimum top clearance, from the lamp roof, should be no less than twelve (12) inches from any combustible surface. The clearance from any side should be no less than six (6) inches from any combustible surface.

What size gas line fitting is needed for the actual installation of a gas lamp?

For installations less than 200 feet in length, you will need to run a standard 3/8th inch copper line from your gas main to the base of the lamp fixture or lamp post. This feed line will then reduce to a ¼ inch copper flared line and flared fitting at the base of the post or mount.

How do I install a post for a post mount lamp?

Dig a hole in the ground that is approximately eight (8) inches wide and twenty-four (24) inches deep. Set the bottom of the post in the center of the hole. Pour concrete around the post to just below the level of the gas line access hole. Proper fitting for underground gas line will be a ¼ inch gas line through the post.

How do you turn a gas lamp on or off?

All of our gas lamps and torches are equipped with manual ignition, which is controlled via the gas valve, located in the collar of the fixture. A 1/4 turn of the valve will allow the user to open the valve and for gas to pass through. Applying direct flame to the burner inside the lamp will then ignite the flame or mantles. A 1/4 turn of the valve in the opposite direction will close the valve, causing the flame or mantles to go out.

Can American Gas Lamp Works configure my lamps to burn liquid propane (LP) gas?

All of our fixtures equipped with gas mantle burners can be configured for use with Natural Gas or Liquid Propane. Our open flame burners are compatible with Natural Gas ONLY. Please specify the type of gas you’ll be using when ordering. Operating a lamp equipped with a natural gas burner on propane can cause excessive heat and smoking and should be avoided.