How High Should a Pool Table Light Be?

Lighting height can make or break a pool table setup. Too low, and it blocks sightlines. Too high, and it casts uneven shadows. To ensure comfort, clarity, and consistent play, you need to hang your light fixture at the correct height—every time.

Standard Pool Table Light Height

The recommended height for a pool table light is 31 to 33 inches from the bottom of the fixture to the table’s playing surface. This measurement creates a balanced spread of light across the entire table. It prevents hot spots, dark corners, and disruptive glare that can affect shot accuracy.

This range applies to most residential and commercial table setups, including 7-foot, 8-foot, and 9-foot tables.

What Affects Hanging Height?

Even within that 31-inch to 33-inch range, small adjustments may be needed based on pool table light fixture design and room layout.

• Fixture Width and Shade Design: Wider light fixtures typically diffuse light more evenly and may need slight elevation. Narrow fixtures often focus light directly downward and benefit from being on the lower end of the range.
• Ceiling Height: A high ceiling will require adjustable chains or rods to reach the proper level. Low ceilings limit vertical space—choose low-profile lighting to stay within the standard height.
• Table Size: Longer tables demand greater horizontal light spread. Multi-shade light bars are common for 8-foot and 9-foot tables.
• Player Sightlines: The fixture should not obstruct views across the table. Players should be able to look down the table without the light blocking their vision or becoming a hazard during play.

How to Measure and Adjust Lighting Height

To ensure your pool table light is positioned correctly, follow these steps to measure and fine-tune its placement.

1. Measure From the Playing Surface

Use a tape measure from the felt surface—not the floor—to the bottom of the light fixture.

2. Check Table Coverage

When lights are on, the entire playing area should be illuminated evenly. No edge should be in shadow.

3. Test for Glare

Stand at multiple positions around the table and look toward the billiard lights. If bulbs are visible or harsh, reposition the fixture slightly or consider different shades.

5. Level the Fixture

Use a bubble level or laser line tool to ensure the pool table light fixture is perfectly horizontal. Even a small tilt can lead to uneven lighting.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even small missteps can compromise your lighting setup—be aware of these common issues and adjust accordingly to maintain proper coverage and comfort.

• Hanging Too High: Anything over 36 inches from the table surface weakens light intensity and coverage.
• Hanging Too Low: Fixtures below 30 inches can block views and cause players to bump the light during shots.
• Ignoring Fixture Proportions: A fixture too short for a long table leaves the ends in darkness. A fixture too wide for a short table wastes energy and adds bulk.
• Using the Wrong Bulbs: Low-lumen bulbs or the wrong color temperature can undo a perfect hanging height.

Additional Lighting Tips

For the best results, choose a billiard light fixture specifically made for billiards tables—these are engineered to provide even, directed illumination without over-lighting the surrounding space.

If you want more control over ambiance, install a dimmer switch that allows you to adjust the brightness depending on the time of day or room conditions. To minimize glare and improve comfort, opt for fixtures with diffused or frosted shades that conceal the bulbs without dulling their effectiveness.

Make sure the fixture’s size matches the table—three-shade fixtures typically suit 7- and 8-foot tables, while 9-foot tables benefit from four-shade models that provide full end-to-end coverage. Also, ensure the bulbs are energy-efficient and cool-running, especially in smaller or lower-ceilinged spaces where heat from traditional bulbs can build up over time.

Light the Way With Blatt Billiards

The right pool table light height creates a better playing experience—and so does the right equipment.

At Blatt Billiards, we offer premium pool table lighting designed to pair perfectly with your space, along with a wide selection of custom, semi-custom, and economy pool tables built with expert craftsmanship and timeless style.

Whether you're upgrading your game room or setting up a new table from scratch, our team is here to help you bring it all together with precision, performance, and elegance.