LED lighting technology has developed at a staggering pace over the last several years. Products that were deemed cutting-edge a few years ago have been superseded by others that are superior in every way.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of LED downlights.
These lights offer a stylish, unobtrusive alternative to traditional halogen spotlights, and they can be used for a wide range of domestic and commercial applications.
If you’ve not considered switching to LED downlights before, read on to find out why you should.
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If you’re searching for the best licensed electrician in the Brisbane area and surrounds (Alderley, Ashgrove, Bardon, Newmarket, Paddington, Stafford, The Gap), look no further than Allyn White Electrical.
What are LED downlights?
LED downlights are essentially spotlights that are recessed into a ceiling, offering a bright directional light. As the fitting is set back into the surface of the ceiling, it is much more unobtrusive than traditional spotlights and can finish any room stylishly.
Once installed, all you would see of the downlight is the lens of the light bulb and the circular flange that rings it. Many downlights offer you a choice of flat or bevelled finishes, from brushed aluminium and brass to black or white ceramic, so it is easy to match the light with a room’s decor.
LED downlights now offer all the benefits of LED lighting, including longer lifespans, superior energy efficiency and, in some cases, the ability to tune the colour or colour temperature of the light from your mobile device
How do LED’s work?
LED lighting (light-emitting diode) is a type of semiconductor that converts an electric current into a light source. Due to their small size, they are commonly grouped together to create a more powerful light source.
Replacing your halogen downlights with LEDs
Replacing or retrofitting halogen downlights with LED downlights is an increasingly popular option, with energy savings and longevity the obvious drawcards. The first step is to determine if your existing downlights are 240V (GU10) or 12V (MR16). This will determine what type of LED bulb you need to buy. If you are planning to retrofit here are some factors that may affect the cost of your project:
• straight swop of the bulb or entire light fitting
• number of fittings to be replaced
• ease of access to your ceiling cavity
• health of your wiring and electrical system
In terms of a direct comparison, 10 LED downlights would use 75 percent less energy and save you in the region of $270 over a year if you replaced 10 x 60-watt halogens.
Downlight safety
Improperly installed downlights have been implicated in a number of house fires. And while LED bulbs do run a lot cooler than halogens, they still generate some heat – which is why they often have a heat sink built-in. If you are installing LED bulbs in an enclosed space – such as a ceiling cavity, you need to look for units that are approved for this purpose.
Incidents of fires caused by improperly installed downlights became such a problem, government authorities issued warnings, and Australian Standards for downlights were tightened. Authorities made these recommendations to all Australians considering installing downlights:
• Only use licensed electricians like Allyn White Electrical to install downlights
• Only buy downlights that meet Australian Standards
• Ensure that only non-combustible materials surround the downlights and/or a safety-tested mechanical barrier is included in the installation
• Consider replacing halogen downlights with LED downlights or installing LED lights instead of halogens
For this reason, electricians are the only tradies qualified to install downlights.
Contact a professional
If you need to upgrade your safety switches and/or your smoke alarms in Alderley, Ashgrove, Bardon, Newmarket, Paddington, Stafford, The Gap, contact a professional electrician like Allyn White Electrical.
Contact a Licensed Electrician in Brisbane for Your Home Electrical Maintenance, Repairs and Installations
Installation, repairs, upgrades, lighting advice for your home and outdoor spaces. No matter what your home renovation plan calls for, you can trust Allyn White.
With over 45 years of experience in all aspects of domestic, industrial, commercial and emergency electrical work, Allyn will be able to assist with your electrical problems in Brisbane.
For a free quote by a licensed electrician call 0416 235 641 to arrange a time to discuss your electrical needs.
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Source: blog.lightbulbs-direct.com, hipages.com.au, brillare.net.au
