Billiard Lighting: Determining the Right Height

Determining the proper height for hanging a billiard light is very important. If the light is hung too low players are likely to accidentally strike it with their cues. Too high, and the light is likely to distract the player. About 32 inches above the bed of the table is considered the average hanging height for a pool table light. A more general way to determine the best height is to hang the light so the bottom of the fixture is level with the bridge of the player's nose, and thus not shining in the player's eyes.

Now that the initial measurements are finished, it will be personal preference that solidifies the lights actual height. The function of a billiard table light is to illuminate only the billiard 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. There should be no shadows on the table. Always center your light lengthwise along the table. This can be done easily by aligning the middle of the light with the middle white diamonds at the ends of the table. Geometry is always factor in billiards from shots to aligning lights.

The above suggestions will be helpful if the billiard table is already in place, but if you're installing your billiard table light before the table arrives, you'll need to adjust accordingly. When hanging a light before the table is in place, adjust so that the light will hang between 62 and 70 inches from the floor. Be prepared to make some minor adjustments. As a general rule of measuring, use the bridge of your nose as a guide. This will, at least, make it so that your new light will not distract you.