When it comes to choosing LED downlights, it can be important to select the right ones. The best decisions can open up spaces and make them look modern, fresh and natural, but the wrong ones can also have a negative impact. With energy prices soaring and a greater focus on the environment, there are plenty of additional considerations to keep in mind when switching on your lights – and LEDs can be the most worthwhile solution when weighing the benefits against traditional incandescent or fluorescent lighting.
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The Benefits of LED Downlights
Using LED downlights in your home can have a wide array of benefits, but here are the top three:
1. Improved light quality
LED downlights function differently from traditional light bulbs and convert energy on the visible spectrum that lets little go to waste. This means that bulbs are brighter, lighting crisper and the overall effects can be the closest thing to natural daylight (when selecting the right colour temperature).
2. Reduced electricity costs
As energy conversion is more efficient with LED bulbs, savings will increase with use. Research suggests that the national average of 0.10p per kWh will allow homes to see an average saving of between £200-£400 a year, but this will be dependent on wattage, lumens and general use.
3. Energy efficiency
In recent years, LED bulbs have been the go-to eco-friendly lighting option on the market. These consume less energy, with Energy Star-rated options coming in with a greater efficiency of up to 75% when compared to their incandescent counterparts.
Types of LED Downlights
LED downlights can be found in an array of sizes and styles, so you may want to get to know a little more about each before purchasing some for your home. These are:
- Recessed LED downlights, which are typically installed directly into ceilings
- Surface-mounted LED downlights, which are typically fixed onto ceilings
- Pendant LED downlights, which are suspended ceilings, by a chain, cord, or metal rod
- Ceiling-mounted LED downlights, which offer a blend of recessed and surface-mounted options
Factors to Consider When Choosing LED Downlights
Brightness and colour temperature
Not only is every room in your home likely to have a different style, but each will also have its own needs for function. As a result, your lighting options can be an essential asset to create the right ambience. While you will need to select the wattage and lumens for standard LED bulbs, plenty of brands and models feature a color temperature customising option to make the most of different spaces.
As modern living rooms have a host of functions, they can be one of the most difficult places to illuminate properly. If you want a more cozy atmosphere, it can be worthwhile to select warmer colour temperatures, but if you find yourself working, crafting, playing games, or more here, cooler temperatures may be better suited. The general rule for LED brightness in living rooms is between 1,500-3,000 lumens with LED colour temperatures of 2,200-3,000K.
Many kitchen spaces will work better with some of the coldest colour temperatures in the home to ensure a clean, modern feel. As a result, brightness levels are typically in the 4,000-8,000 lumens range, with colour temperatures of 2,700-5,000K.
Bathrooms can benefit from brighter lighting, as many people use these spaces for personal hygiene. This means that brightness options of 4,000-8,000 lumens with a colour temperature of 3,000-5,000K will be ideal.
Beam angle
LED lights have what’s known as a beam angle, which refers to the outputted light’s distribution. This is typically measured in degrees to provide either wide or narrow illumination that can be used to create focal points or a more dramatic effect depending on where they are placed.
Compatibility with existing infrastructure
The good news is that LEDs are designed to fit into existing infrastructures with ease. There may be times when an electrician will be needed, but most LED lighting kits will come complete with connectors and a power supply for a secure fit.
Quality and durability
LED light bulbs are constructed using hard plastics that are safe to use and durable – and these require little maintenance or upkeep outside of a light dusting or a wipe over with a damp cloth. They can last around 25 years longer than their incandescent counterparts when buying from a reputable manufacturer.
Conclusion
LED downlights can be bought in an array of sizes and styles – and the brightness and colour temperatures can be an added feature to consider when cultivating the best environment for every room’s needs. As these are environmentally friendly and cost-effective, why not make the switch from traditional bulbs today?
