Halloween Lighting

Posted on 16 October 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

Halloween Lighting

Read on for ideas for Halloween Lighting and to redeem our spooktacular Happy Halloween discount voucher.

an image of a halloween scene

 

 

 

like us on facebook and receive 5% discount on all products up to and including 31st October 2012. voucher code will be emailed to you within 2 working days

 

 

 

Typical Halloween festivities of dressing up and trick-or-treating, will soon be upon us. Decorating our homes to create a ghoulish atmosphere, carving the pumpkins into menacing faces, playing recorded blood-curdling screams; this annual holiday is experienced around the world. Halloween is an opportunity to embrace the dark nights of the winter months, providing us with something to combat the winter blues.

an image of a house decorated with rope light to create a scary effect

Rope Light can help create a great Halloween effect

 

Using the right lighting effects in the correct area we can create the aura of the sinister, similar to the image to the left. Try rope lighting in purple or blue and green. Rope light can be used indoors and outdoors.

 

 

 

an image showing rope lighting creating scary effects

 

Decorate trees and around the garden – try rope lighting or outdoor spotlights with coloured light bulbs to create similar effects.

 

 

As a treat from directlight we are offering our customers a 5% discount on all products… Happy Halloween …

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Linda Wolstenholme directlight Production & Bespoke Services Manager

Posted on 8 October 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

Linda Wolstenholme

An image of Linda Wolstenholme, production and bespoke services manager

Production & Bespoke Services Manager

 

 

 

 

 

Background Information

Linda has worked for Lighting Bug since its inception and beyond. Linda is no stranger to the production of luminaires, having worked in lighting production prior to her time with Lighting Bug. Linda is the head of production and bespoke services department, based here at the Lighting Bug Rotherham showroom.

Linda’s management role with Lighting Bug varies greatly, from production of traditional-style luminaires to repairs and re-wiring of customer’s vintage table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling lights etc – a service we offer that our local customers are particularly grateful of. Linda is called on to share of her wealth of knowledge regularly both within the company and from our customers.

Some of the lighting Linda restores has been in our customers’ families for generations, and with a little technical care and attention Linda is able to transform them into working order so that they can continue to be treasured whilst still being functional. All components that Linda and her team use are sympathetic to the age and design of the piece.

Outside Interests

Linda absolutely loves her bi-annual holidays to Cyprus with her family. Linda’s husband recently retired so when she finishes work of an evening she can put her feet up and watch the soaps on TV. On a weekend though you’ll find her with her husband at their local, enjoying a glass of Stella Artois or 3.

 

If you or someone you know has questions about repairs, restoration of a luminaire or bespoke services please contact us – if Linda can’t give you an answer immediately, she’ll endeavour to source the information for you. If you’re local to us pop in to our Rotherham showroom and speak to her personally.

Please note Linda is available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

 

 

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Lighting Language

Posted on 3 October 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

Lighting Language

I don’t know how you feel, but I have so much more confidence in making purchases and asking for advice when I have a bit of background knowledge. So in this post I hope to boost your confidence in purchasing your lighting needs with a basic run down on domestic lighting language.

 

Luminaires

The light fitting is known as a “luminaire” – whether for indoor or outdoor use – a wall light, a chandelier, a flush fitting, or even a table lamp or floor lamp are all luminaires. Table and floor lamps are known as “portable luminaires”.

An image of Oaks 5 light pendant in chrome product reference 7085CH

A Luminaire

An image of an Oaks Tiffany table lamp product reference OT6220/12TL

A Portable Luminaire

Lamps v Light Bulbs

As a consumer a lamp is simply a table lamp (as the image above), however, in the lighting industry the term “lamp” refers to the light bulb, such as a reflector, halogen, GLS, fluorescent tube, spotlight etc. In other words the light source.

an image showing samples of lamp

An Example of Lamps

In domestic lighting there are several lamp types that we will be familiar with. Click on the links below to view more information on these types of lamps.

Incandescent Filament Lamp

Halogen Lamps

Fluorescent Lamps

LED Lamps

Voltage

Mains Voltage (V)

Most of us are aware that our domestic mains electricity supply is 240V AC*. In our mains supply, voltage enables the flow of electricity to light the lamp. Such a voltage is capable of causing skin burns, severe electric shock, and even death. This is why all electrical appliances should be fitted by a relevantly qualified electrician.

However, if we use a lower voltage supply this risk is reduced considerably (see below Safety Extra Low Voltage).

It is worth noting that it our mains voltage is described as ‘low voltage’ because in industry much higher voltages are used. Low voltage is categorised as 50V to 1000V AC.

Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV)

Categorised at below 24V AC, SELV is generally utilised in luminaires for bathroom and outdoor use, although there are other luminaires that are SELV. SELV luminaires require an isolating transformer. Other luminaires have integral transformers which can usually be found inside the ceiling plate.

In items such as recessed downlighters the transformer is generally fitted within the ceiling void. The mains power cable is connected to the transformer which is then connected to the luminaire by a lower voltage cable. This reduces the 240V electricity supply to a much safer 12v on the luminaire side of the transformer.

An image of a transformer used with lighting

A Transformer

Wattage

A watt is the basic scientific unit of power from your electricity supply. A 40w lamp therefore consumes 40 units of electrical power. You will see the term “wattage” in various places. A lampholder (the part of the luminaire that the lamp fits into), will be marked with the maximum wattage lamp that the luminaire can safely take; the packaging of the luminaire will usually display this information and lamp packaging will show the wattage of the lamp that you are purchasing.

The wattage marked on the lampholder is the maximum wattage that the lampholder/luminaire is designed to take. You are at risk of burning out the lampholder if a higher wattage than the recommended is used.

Lumen

A lumen is the basic unit for the quality of light produced by the light source, ie the amount of visible light emitted from the lamp. In future all packaging for lamps will display the lumen output of the particular lamp. The lumen output of a lamp can vary significantly – factors such as the specific manufacturer, and the technology that they use, and of course the actual quality of the lamp itself.

For example take the following BELL (British Electric Lamps Ltd) incandescent 60W clear decorative candle bulbs.

Lamp Wattage      Lumen (l) Output

60w                             655

40w                             350

25w                             170

 

In summary, the voltage enables the flow of electricity to light the lamp, the wattage is the amount of power that the lamp consumes and a lumen is the measurement of how much visible light is actually perceived through the human eye.

Colour Temperature

Colour temperature refers to the objective scale of the colour appearance of near white light sources, ie lamps. Colour temperature is measured in Kelvins.  It is important to note that colour temperature does not relate to the actual temperature of the lamp itself, but our perception of the colour of the light produced. See below the colour temperature of some of the most popular lamp types we use in domestic situations, together with its colour code and the description.

Colour Temp °K Colour Code Description
2700 827 Warm White
3500 835 White
4000 840 Cool White
6000 860 Daylight

 

This is just a sample of the colour temperatures we use in domestic lighting. You may have seen tropical fish tanks or pet reptile tanks where specific colour temperatures of lamps replicate their natural environment or habitat.

Refraction

Refraction is the way light travels through a transparent material such as glass. The speed of the light travelling through glass or plastics is much slower than travelling through air, travelling at about two-thirds of the speed in air and generally causes the light beam to bend. You see this effect on luminaires such as glass and crystal chandeliers.

 

Double Insulated or Class II Luminaires

Certain luminaires are double insulated which ensures protection from electric shock. All live parts are surrounded by sufficient insulation materials to ensure we cannot come into contact with the electrical components once the luminaire is correctly installed in normal operation. Often Class II luminaires will be produced in certain plastics such as polycarbonate, which have good insulation properties.

Period properties with no earthing in the building’s electrical wiring will require double insulated luminaires to comply with current regulations. Your electrician should advise you of the need for double insulated products.

The following symbol will be displayed on the base of the luminaire on all double insulated or Class II luminaires and portable luminaires.

an image of the double insulation or Class II symbol

Double Insulated Class II Symbol

 

Task Lighting

Lighting used for specific tasks in our home is known as task lighting. For example, a floor lamp or table lamp used for tasks such as reading, sewing etc.

General Lighting

General luminaires such as the ceiling pendant for overall general lighting within a specific room or area.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is used to illuminate without causing any distraction from the functional aspects of the room, or maybe highlighting certain areas of decorative interest. It may also assist in creating a specific mood.

 

Further Information

There are so many terms used in the industry, the list could go on and on. If you are unsure of any terminology and would welcome any further advice please get in touch and one of our experienced members of staff would be happy to assist.

 

* The voltages stated are for the UK only. For further information on other countries’ power supplies please consult the relevant country’s governing body.

 

 

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How to Clean Light Fittings

Posted on 10 September 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

How to Clean Light Fittings

Maximising Visible Light Output

Luminaires come with directions on how to fit them, but they very rarely contain instructions on how to clean lighting fittings and lamp shades. Surprising when the slow build up of dust and dirt accounts for a loss of one-third of light output before the dirt becomes noticeable, according to consumer information from The Lighting Industry Association.

Therefore, cleaning our luminaires regularly not only keeps them as good as new, it also assists in achieving maximum efficiency of the light source.  If you’re in the process of selling your property keeping the luminaires clean, both indoor and outdoor, maintains the value of the luminaire and in turn the value they add to the property.

Steps to Keeping Your Lighting as New

First and foremost ALWAYS SWITCH OFF AND IF POSSIBLE DISCONNECT THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY BEFORE REMOVING ANY PARTS THAT REQUIRE CLEANING.

There are so many cleaning products on the market that it is easy to pick up a duster and a can of polish, however an abrasive, chemical product should never be used for cleaning luminaires, unless it is a suitable specialist cleaner. Using chemicals on the metal finishes of a luminaire is one of the main culprits in creating a tarnished finish.

Cleaning the Luminaire

The best formula for cleaning the metal components of your lighting is a couple of lint-free cloths and a solution of water and a few drops of washing up liquid or other mild detergent. One of the cloths should be soaked in the water and wrung out until just slightly damp. Using this cloth wipe over the metal surfaces of the luminaires. Dry immediately and buff with the other, dry, cloth.The luminaire should NEVER be immersed in water. Always make sure the luminaire is COMPLETELY dry before reconnection and switching on.

Cleaning the Lamps (Light Bulbs)

Ensure that the lamps have completely cooled before removing them from the fitting – lamps should always be removed from the lampholder before cleaning. Simply wipe the lamp with the slightly damp cloth and immediately dry. Be very careful not to wet the lamp cap.

Glass Shades

Allow the glass shades to completely cool before removing. Glass shades should be removed from the fitting and cleaned in a warm water and washing up liquid solution. Ensure they are completely dry before replacing them. Never put glass shades in the dishwasher.

Fabric Lamp Shades

This really depends upon the quality of fabric used and how the shade was produced. It is a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions first and always try a test patch before applying to the rest of the shade.

Next, check if the shade edging has been glued or sewn? If the shade is completely made of fabric with sewn edges it may be sponged gently with cool water. Using hot water many affect any glue used on the trimming. Ensure that the sponge is wrung out well before gently applying.

The metal framework of the shades are generally covered to protect against rust, however if the frame is damaged in any way rusting may occur and mark the fabric. Be sure to thoroughly dry the framework to prevent any rusting.

Some shades are paper or card backed and should not be cleaned with water as this will damage the integrity of the shade. These styles may be cleaned by brushing with a very soft brush, dry-sponging or even with the upholstery attachment of the vacuum cleaner.

Some fabrics are much more delicate than others, for example silk is much more delicate than cotton, so any cleaning should be undertaken very carefully and gently.

Cleaning Crystal

There are specialist cleaners on the market with which to clean your crystal chandeliers, however some of these cleaners can tarnish the finish of the metal components of the luminaire if not used correctly. Caution needs to be taken when spraying these cleaners around the lampholders and the lamps themselves. It is imperative to ALWAYS follow the instructions to the letter on the cleaning product if you decide to use these.

An easy way to clean crystal chandeliers is to use a white fabric glove with a small amount of mild detergent solution to gently wipe over each cluster of crystal. Again make sure that they are thoroughly dried before switching on the luminaire.

Always use gloves to handle crystal as the oils on our skin can impede the beauty and sparkle of the crystal. Quality crystal chandeliers often contain a pair of such white gloves to dress the chandelier.

Small chandeliers could be cleaned at home but large and complicated chandeliers may benefit from a specialist cleaning company.

If you would like further information on cleaning any of our lighting please do not hesitate to contact us.

 

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Lighting Showrooms

Posted on 7 September 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

Lighting Showrooms

See Inside our Lighting Showrooms

We are in the process of providing our customers with walkabout videos to enable them to view the fabulous ranges of luminaires that each of our 3 retail lighting showrooms currently display. With showrooms in the North, Midlands and South of England there is a showroom near to you. (To view see links below.)

An image of Lighting Bug Rotherham Showroom

Lighting Bug Ltd Rotherham Showroom

Types of Lighting on Display

At each showroom you will find traditional crystal chandeliers and contemporary flush fittings, modern pendants and even ceiling fans. Many suites have 8 light, 5 light and 3 light ceiling fittings with corresponding table lamps, floor lamps and wall lights. A selection of utility/task lighting such as under-cupboard kitchen lights and with LED or fluorescent tubes and recessed downlighters; LED tape light for mood lighting is also stocked. Each showroom has its own range of IP rated bathroom lighting in both traditional and contemporary styles that will complement your period or modern decor.

Take-away or Available to Order

Much of the lighting on display at each individual showroom is available to take away, other items are to order only – if you see something on the walkabout that appeals you can always call the relevant showroom to see if the product is available to take away or if the product can be ordered in. Ordering typically takes from 2 working days to 7 working days depending on the manufacturer of the product – this will be confirmed to you at the time of ordering.

Bespoke Traditional Lamp Shades Service

Bespoke traditionally styled, fabric lamp shades are also produced at our Chooselight branch. Both Lighting Bug Rotherham and Lighting Bug Swindon have samples on display of the colour and design of the fabrics available, the shapes available and the sizes that can be ordered from all 3 retail showrooms. Fabric shades can also be made from the same fabric of your bed linen or curtains to complement your decor perfectly – simply supply the fabric, choose from the frame sizes and shapes available and Chooselight will do the rest.

Chooselight, Lighting Bug Cannock Showroom

Range of Light Bulbs

All 3 showrooms also have a vast choice of lamps (light bulbs); from traditional tungsten GLS and decorative candle shaped and golf ball lamps to replacement oven lamps, and cooker hood lamps. LED direct replacement lamps for GU10 and MR16 spot lights; halogen energy-saver lamps, halogen capsule lamps, fluorescent tubes – the list is endless. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, simply ask a member of staff and we can do our best to source it for you from one of the many suppliers and manufacturers that we are approved suppliers of.

Lighting Bug Ltd, Rotherham

To view inside our showroom in the North in Bramley, Rotherham, South Yorkshire click here.

Chooselight Ltd t/a Lighting Bug, Cannock

To view inside our Midlands branch in Cannock, Staffordshire click here.

Lighting Bug (Swindon) Ltd, Swindon

To view inside our showroom in the South, in Swindon, Wiltshire click here.

Come in and see see the magnificent ranges for yourself at your local showroom. Our friendly and experienced staff will be more than happy to discuss your lighting requirements with you.

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BELL LED Lamps

Posted on 1 September 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

BELL LED Lamps

An image of the British Electric Lamps Limited company logo

BELL LED LAMPS 2012 .. “Looking to the Future”

British Electric Lamps Ltd (BELL) have built a reputation within the lighting industry for manufacturing high quality, progressive products. Established in 1920 they continue to develop innovative, next-generation products to meet the growing demand in the market for cost-effective, energy-saving products.

In addition to their Halogen Savers BELL (British Electric Lamps Limited) have recently introduced a range of LED lamps with a 3 year guarantee, new improved lumen output and  an 85% energy-saving!

What are lumens?

Remember, a lumen is the actual measurement of the visible light output we get from a light source. For example a standard decorative tungsten lamp such as a 25 watt clear candle lamp produces around 220 lumens (lms) output; a 25 watt opal candle around 180 lumens. This value can be found on the packaging of all lamps, including tungsten lamps, available today.

BELL’s LED Lamp Range Comparison

So, how do BELL’s decorative LED range compare? Their fabulous range includes decorative and commercial lamps, but both are suitable for use in domestic situations.

An image of BELL's decorative LED lamp types

BELL Decorative LED Lamp Types

A clear candle-shaped lamp that uses just 4 watts of electrical energy produces around the same lumen output as their 25w tungsten counterpart. BELL’s non-dimmable 4w clear candle has a fantastic 270 lumen output, with the 4w clear dimmable equivalent producing a 175 lumen output. What’s even better is that these are whopping lumen outputs in comparison to other manufacturers currently on the market.

(Please note that LED lamps must be used with Leading Edge dimmers only.)

The decorative LED lamps and the commercial LED GU10s come in warm white and cool white, have an approximate 30,000-40,000 hour life span and all BELL’s LED lamp range come with a 3 year guarantee.

An image of BELL's commercial LED GU10 and MR16 lamps

BELL Commercial LED GU10 & MR16 Lamps

Available in direct replacement candle shape, GLS and golf ball shapes,  intensity LED GU10s and MR16s, the areas these energy-saving lamps can be utilised in the home are endless. The savings where you are currently burning more electricity with your standard tungsten lamps or halogen GU10s can be quite considerable.

An image of a conversion chart showing the running costs of a BELL 5 watt intensity LED against a 35w and 50w halogen lamp

BELL’s LED GU10s are also available in red, amber, blue, green and RGB colour change. If you’d like more technical information on any of BELL’s lamps full datasheets are available for each product.

An image of BELL's dimmable intensity LED GU10 available in warm white and cool white

Dimmable Intensity LED GU10
Available in Warm White and Cool White

BELL’s Intensity LED GU10 shown above are ideal for replacing costly halogen GU10s where spotlights are used:

“Emitting a cool, halogen like beam, the dimmable INTENSITY LED GU10 is ideal for spot lighting (track, corridors, lift lobbies, display cases and cabinets). It is particularly suited to public areas such as lobbies, corridors and stairwells where the light is on 24/7. The smooth dimming of the wide beam allows a wide choice of light levels.”

A dramatic step forward on a direct replacement LED, that saves us money? We certainly think so. For more information, technical or otherwise, for advice on their use around the home or at work, please feel free to contact us and we will be more than happy to help.

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LED Light Bulbs

Posted on 23 August 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

LED Light Bulbs

With the least energy-efficient light bulbs (“lamps” from hereon-in) slowly disappearing from shop shelves since early 2008 we, as consumers, have begun to try new lighting options which account for a greener effect on the environment, saves us money and provides the same sort of visible light output achieved by traditional incandescent lamps. This visible light output is measured in lumens. LED lamps are an ideal choice and are becoming increasingly popular for these very reasons. Click here to view The Lighting Association’s Phase Out Timetable.

The Lighting Association have put together a straight-forward, easy to understand document to help consumers make the best informed choice on the most suitable, energy-efficient replacement lamps for a specific purpose or area. Click here to view this chart. You should find the lumens value on the packaging of lamps – legislation now states that this information must be included on all new lamp packaging specifically for consumer reference. This will offer a comparison of lumen output of LEDs against incandescent, halogen or fluorescent lamps.

an image of BELL decorative LED lamps

Decorative LED Lamps

So, what does LED mean?

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), invented nearly 50 years ago, are the talk of everyone in the lighting industry at the moment. An example of early use of LEDs is low brightness lights on audio equipment and subsequently on solar outdoor lights. They are now found in traffic lights, modern vehicle lights and even street lighting. These combined with the addition of domestic lighting design, LEDs are becoming ever popular.

LEDs are highly energy-efficient and can generate more light per unit of electricity than most other technologies. They last up to 50 times longer than a traditional incandescent lamp and 5 times longer than a CFL (compact fluorescent) energy-saving lamp. Their solid state provides greater resistance to shock and vibration when compared to incandescent lamps with thin filaments and fragile glass tubes of fluorescent lamps containing gases. LEDs also contain no mercury so are an environmentally “greener” product too.

LEDs for domestic lighting are rapidly being improved as the major manufacturers are investing in research and their development. According to the Lighting Industry Association, estimates suggest that up to 80% of our lighting may be accounted for by LED lamps within just 10 years.

BELL (British Electric Lamp Limited) and Aurora are 2 such manufacturers of high quality commercial, domestic, decorative and floodlight LEDs, who are committed to the continuity of their development and manufacture and we, directlight, are an authorised distributor of their products.

an image of BELL commercial LED lamps

High-output Commercial LED Lamps

Retro-fit replacements for reflector lamps, spotlight lamps and fluorescent tubes have been available for a while, and we are now being introduced to retro-fit GLS lamps, CFLs, decorative rope light and tape light, all with LEDs.

An image of Eglo's Xana Chrome and glass floor lamp

XANA Chrome and Glass LED Floor Lamp

Luminaire designers can be more creative with their luminaire designs as they are not restricted by the size of the lamps required in the luminaires and can be built into the fitting. Others are designed with the size of retro-fit lamps in mind.

An image of Eglo's Rottelo LED spotlight plate ref 90916

ROTTELO LED Spotlight Plate

Where are LEDs suitable for?

LEDs are ideal for high use areas in the home such as kitchens and living rooms. LED under-cupboard lights are great for kitchens, providing light at a lower energy cost and a lower heat output. Quality LED lamps can also be used in bathrooms with recessed down-lighters. LEDs are also suitable for decorative use and are available in all primary colours and a mix of these can produce hundreds of different colours with the right equipment.

An image of AVSL RGB multi-coloured LED decorative tape light

RGB Decorative LED Tapelight

Initial Outlay

High-brightness LEDs are a developing technology and are expensive to produce due to the precise nature of their production. As with all new technologies and products, as high-brightness LEDs become more popular we can expect to see prices stabilise, however, it is unlikely that costs will fall as low as conventional light sources. This is due in part to the longer-life of the LEDs and the technology required to produce them.

White LEDs come in a variety of colours from warm white to cool white so it is important to make sure you choose the colour most suitable for your luminaire’s intended purpose. Many people like the warmer white of the incandescent lamps, which is more suited for mood lighting and relaxation areas. The cooler white is often used in areas of work or study.

an image of Eglo's Cardito chrome and crystal suspension fitting with white LEDs

CARDITO Chrome and Crystal Suspension LED Fitting

LED Quality

Care must be taken when purchasing LED lamps as they can vary in lumen output, beam angle and in quality. Lower quality LED lamps may not produce as much visible light and may not last as long. The cost and life can vary widely in terms of brand, type and quality – it is important to check the lamp life and lumen output values on the packaging of the lamps to ensure they will provide you with adequate illumination for the task at hand.

If you’d like to discuss or get further advice on whether LEDs are suitable for a specific area you have in mind get in touch and our experienced team will be more than happy to assist.

 

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Fluorescent Bulbs

Posted on 10 August 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

Fluorescent Bulbs / Low Energy Bulbs

As mentioned in previous posts light bulbs are known in the lighting industry as “lamps” and light fittings are known as “luminaires”. These terms will therefore be used in this post on ‘Fluorescent Bulbs’ for consistency.

Many of us recognise fluorescent lamps in the linear tube form found in the strip lights that were highly popular in kitchens and are commonly used for commercial purposes for example in office lighting. This is specifically due to the high visible-light output at a lower energy cost. The technology that produces fluorescent lamps, or low-energy lamps as they have become widely recognised as, has been around for decades, however due to advances over recent years we have seen the sizes and shapes change and develop radically. They now encapsulate traditional shapes, candles, spirals, golf balls, as well as the linear tubes – all of these traditional shaped fluorescent lamps are collectively known as compact fluorescents or CFLs. To keep up with this manufacturers design luminaires designed specifically for CFL lamps.

The image below shows a sample of the range of CFLs available produced by BELL (British Electric Lamps Ltd), although there are many more different types and manufacturers.

An image of BELL Household and Commercial CFLs

Common BELL Household and Commercial CFLs

Not only have the shapes and sizes evolved, but so has the colour quality of them. Many consumers still think of the first compact fluorescents as the dark and dreary yellow-tinged colour that took an age to reach 100% light output. As technology has progressed, so too has the colour ranges available. It is the manufacturers control of the phosphor levels within the lamp which determines the range of colour qualities.

Colour Temperature

Colour temperature is an industry standard term used for describing the colour of visible light produced from a lamp. The colour temperature if measured in Kelvins (K) and you will have seen on lamp packaging either a 4 digit number followed by a K or a 3 digit colour code.

The term “degrees Kelvin” is often used but is not technically correct. Please note that the colour temperature is for descriptive purposes only and does not relate to the actual temperature of the lamp. All fluorescent lamps run much cooler than GLS lamps. CFLs are ideal in situations where heat presents a risk.

The following chart shows the colour temperatures and codes used for some of the most popular lamp types:

Colour Temp °K Colour Code Description
2700 827 Warm White
3500 835 White
4000 840 Cool White
6000 860 Daylight

With the exception of LEDs, if a lamp doesn’t use a hot filament to produce its light, then light (or radiation) is produced from an electrical discharge through a gas. The electricity passes through this gas producing an invisible ultra-violet light which is then converted to visible light by a phosphor coating inside the glass envelope or glass tube – the phosphor absorbs the ultra-violet energy and gives out light at visible wavelengths.

Due to the way fluorescent lamps are produced they require extra hardware to start and control them – ie to create an extra boost to get them started,  the lamps require a ‘starter’ which operates when the lamp is first switched on and also a ‘ballast’ which controls and regulates the flow of electric energy.

an image of a Fluorescent Starter

Standard Fluorescent Starter

If you notice your fluorescent lamp flickering on and off just before the lamp stops working  this would generally mean that your starter needs replacing – if however the end of the fluorescent lamp has turned black prior to it stopping working, then it is likely that you need to replace your lamp.

In retro-fit CFLs the starter is contained within the lamp itself – hence the size of the lamp itself can be much larger than a standard incandescent lamp.

An important thing to remember is that many fluorescent lights cannot be controlled by an ordinary dimmer switch, so it is important to choose a CFL that allows dimming. If dimmers are used with non-dimmable lamps damage can be caused to both the lamp and the dimmer.

CFLs are very popular in both domestic and commercial situations because they are cheap to use – in general a fluorescent watt of power is converted to 4 times as much light as that of a standard GLS incandescent lamp. The general outlay is a little more than that of incandescent lamps, but they also have a longer life of several thousand hours more than incandescent lamps.

If you are unsure about the use of CFLs or require any further information please feel free to drop us a line or give us a call – our team would be more than happy to assist.

 

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Tungsten Light Bulbs

Posted on 6 August 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

Tungsten Light Bulbs

In the previous post we discussed tungsten halogen light bulbs. This new post aims to provide background information on the traditional tungsten light bulbs that we are all familiar with. Tungsten light bulbs are otherwise known as incandescent bulbs.

“Lamps” and “Luminaire“

As discussed in the tungsten halogen post the lighting industry and electricians use the following terms; “light bulbs” are referred to as “lamps” and light fittings are referred to as “luminaires“. These terms will also be used for this post.

Incandescent/Tungsten Lamp Shapes

Standard incandescent or tungsten lamps, together with tungsten halogen lamps are the most popular choice for general domestic lighting and vehicle lamps. The most recognisable shape is of course the GLS (general lighting service) more commonly referred to as ‘a standard shaped light bulb’. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes (see image below other lamp shapes that you may recognise) tungsten lamps are highly popular due to their lower cost, availability and ease of use.

Incandescent tungsten lamps provide a good quality of light with good colour properties for most domestic situations. They are flexible in terms of suitability for the many designs of luminaires available on the market today.

How Tungsten Lamps Work

An incandescent lamp contains a tungsten filament which is the small, thin wire inside the lamp. Electricity is passed through this filament causing it to glow white-hot, producing both light and heat.

Tungsten Lamp Shapes

An image of general light service lamp shapes

Some GLS Lamp Shapes

 

Tungsten Lamp Caps

The lamp caps typical of the tungsten lamps are BC (bayonet cap) that everyone will be most familiar with, SBC (small bayonet cap), ES (Edison screw), and SES (small Edison screw). The packaging of these lamps may contain either one or both of the following references:

SBC = B15 = small bayonet cap

BC = B22 = bayonet cap

SES = E14 = small Edison screw cap

ES – E27 = large Edison screw cap

Incidentally, the name Edison is derived from Thomas Edison the American inventor responsible for improving the electric incandescent light bulb.

an image of types of lamp cap types

Pros and Cons of Incandescent Tungsten Lamps

Although these traditional incandescent lamps have a lower initial cost they are not as efficient as other types of lamps such as halogen lamps, and much more less efficient than fluorescents or LEDs. A high percentage of the energy that an incandescent lamp uses is converted to heat rather than visible light, having a great impact on running costs.

Tungsten filament light bulbs also have the shortest life of all the lamps that we currently use. When the luminaire is switched on the tungsten evaporates from the filament inside the lamp wearing the filament out until it becomes so thin the lamp fails. The higher the temperature of the lamp the quicker the evaporation and therefore the shorter the life.

As the tungsten evaporates from the filament it becomes deposited onto the glass envelope – you will have seen this on a failed lamp that has a blackening inside the glass. This can have marginal effect on the visible light output before the final failure of the lamp.

Summary

As a consumer we must therefore weigh-up the pros and cons to decide which option is best for our particular situation. In summary, the light produced from a tungsten filament lamp has good colour properties and is suitable for most household tasks, it is inexpensive to buy and install, but has the lowest efficiacy and the shortest life. Flexibility is certainly an influential factor due to the vast range of shapes, colours and wattages available.

For more information or assistance when choosing replacement lamps or if you are contemplating a new luminaire and require further information on the type of lamp specific luminaires use please feel free to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.

 

 

 

 

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Tungsten Halogen Light Bulbs

Posted on 26 July 2012 by Alison Pendlebury-Brown

Tungsten Halogen Light Bulbs

Terminology – “Lamps” and “Luminaire“

Within the lighting industry and amongst electricians “light bulbs” are generally referred to as “lamps“. A light fitting is referred to as a “luminaire“. So for the purpose of this post and for consistency, I will refer to them using these industry terms.

Lamp Types

There are many different lamp types, with the most common types associated with today’s domestic lighting being GLS, TH, MC, CFL and of course the modern LED. Nearly all current domestic lighting is covered by the first 4 of these types.

Rated Life Span

All lamps have a rated life which is generally displayed in hours on the lamp’s packaging, although this does not mean that each and every lamp of the same type will last at least this long or even the same number of hours as the previous one used. Many factors can influence a lamp’s life, factors such as the quality of the lamp and the conditions in which they are used.

Tungsten Halogen Lamps

Tungsten Halogen (TH) lamps work in effectively the same manner as a standard GLS incandescent lamp, but with an added halogen gas atmosphere within the glass. The glass envelope of a TH lamp is made of quartz, with properties able to withstand the high temperatures reached in such a small lamp. A tungsten filament is contained within this quartz envelope. Electricity is passed through the filament causing it to glow white-hot to the point of incandescence – this being the point at which the filament gives off both heat and light.

When turned on, the heat emitted by a standard GLS lamp causes the filament material to be burned off which can create a blackening inside the glass – you may have observed this on standard incandescent lamps. The added halogen gas in a TH lamp increases its life by re-depositing the burned-off filament material back onto the filament, rather than blackening the glass.

Halogen lamps generally emit a crisp, bright white light, when compared to the yellow-colour of the standard tungsten lamps, providing good colour rendition of the objects illuminated.

Halogen Lamp Types

an image of some halogen lamp types

Some Types of Halogen Lamp

There are many different types of TH lamp, the most common ones are the G9 capsule lamp, GU10 spot lamp and linear halogen lamps which are all domestic mains voltage, and G4 capsule lamp, MR16, MR11 spot lamps which are low voltage lamps.

an image of endon's Twist 9 light pendant in chrome

Twist 9-Light Pendant with G4 Capsule Lamps

The G9, G6.35 and G4 capsule lamps are increasingly popular with luminaire designers as the small size of these lamps means that they can be more creative with the design of the luminaire without being restricted by the size of the lamp.

An image of Searchlight's UFO spotlight bar

Spotlight Bar with GU10 Lamps

GU10 and MR16 lamps are often used within contemporary spotlight bars or recessed downlighters. Linear halogen lamps, which are manufactured in wattages up to 300w are prevalent in outdoor security/flood lights and uplighting indoor floor lamps.

Halogen lamps are identified with their bases and are named by the distance between their pins in mm – see the diagram below for examples.

an image of some halogen lamp bases

Mains halogen lamps are dimmable with widely available soft-start dimmer switches. Low voltage (12v/24v) halogen lamps such as G4, MR16 can be dimmed, but MUST be used in conjunction with an appropriate dimmer switch designed to control low voltage transformers that are required for use with all low voltage luminaires.

For further advice on suitable dimmer switches our specialist team will be able to assist or contact your electrician.

Here at directlight we, and our 3 showrooms, supply a vast range of tungsten halogen lamps. However, if you don’t see what you are looking for give us a call on 01709 533005, email sales@directlight.co.uk or pop in to one of our 3 showrooms and if we don’t stock it we’re likely to be able to source it for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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