Gas conversion is the adaptation of an antique light fitting originally made for gas, such as a gasolier, gas bracket or gas lantern, so that it can be used with electricity. Because gas lighting was widespread in Victorian and Edwardian houses, many surviving period fittings were designed for it, and converting them allows them to be used safely in a modern home.
Gas lighting spread rapidly through British towns and country houses during the nineteenth century, and fittings were made in brass, bronze and cast iron, often with decorative arms, taps and glass shades. When electricity replaced gas, many fittings were discarded, but others were converted, sometimes by running wires through the original gas pipes and fitting lamp holders where the burners had been. A careful modern conversion removes or makes safe any gas components, keeps decorative taps and fittings where possible, uses new heat-resistant cable and correctly earthed lamp holders, and fits suitable gallery rings for the original shades. Buyers should ask whether a converted fitting has been rewired and tested, and they should be aware that early amateur conversions can be unsafe. A well-converted gasolier keeps the charm of the original while meeting modern electrical standards.
