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Downlightsdirect.co.uk | LED Downlights & UK Down Lighting Supplier
Downlights (or down lights) are a modern and elegant lighting option which compliment the décor of any room; recess mounted into the ceiling, they offer a discrete alternative to the traditional lamp shade or light fixture. Perfect for domestic or commercial use, downlights provide an unrivalled crisp, clear lighting ambience. There are already thousands of different downlights available on the market and with the arrival of the more energy efficient GU10 LED downlights, there are now even more to choose from.
Although it is good to have options, choosing the right ones can be confusing, especially if you are not familiar with them. Downlights Direct was created to provide expert advice and to ‘tell it like it is. While many other lighting suppliers simply dont have the answers we can provide you with the facts and help you make an informed purchase. Before choosing your downlights we recommend you refer to the Building Regulations as different Regulations will apply depending on what type of property they are being installed in e.g. residential dwelling versus a commercial building. Some of our latest downlights comply with all relevant Building Regulations such as the iCage or Halers H2 range of LED downlights (formally known as EvoLED).
One of the main challenges when installing downlights is the large amount that is needed to achieve the bright lighting affect that they are designed for. This presents a problem with energy efficiency especially if you are using energy-guzzling halogens. For example: To create the lighting effect of a single 100 watt light fitting, you may need to use 10 x 50 watt halogens (depending on your room size) which increases energy consumption by 400 watt. The lighting effect would be greatly enhanced; however there would be an increased cost on your energy bills.
We understand the desire to achieve the superior lighting effect provided by downlights but without compromising on energy efficiency therefore, we specialise in providing low energy options. Low energy downlights such as CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) or LED can replace halogen and save up to 90% in energy.
LED technology has now surpassed CFL in every way, mainly because it is longer lasting and provides instant 100% light. CFL on the other hand can take up to two minutes to achieve 100% light.
There are two ways of upgrading to low energy downlights:
1) Convert your existing downlights by replacing the halogen bulbs with retrofit CFL or LED bulbs. This can present a problem as the new energy efficient bulbs need to be able to fit inside the downlights. Most CFL and LED bulbs are physically deeper in size and require deeper downlights to house them. This is a common problem with fire rated downlights as they are enclosed, leaving no room to maneuver.
2) Remove the existing downlights and replace them with complete (or integrated) LED downlights, such as the Halers H2. This new generation of downlight is supplied as a complete fitting – it doesn’t require a lamp holder as the LED is integrated into the fitting. The overall advantage is that complete LED downlights are brighter than LED bulbs and last twice as long. Its worth noting that should the LED stop working, you would need to replace the entire fitting however, some LED downlights such as the Halers H2 have a life expectancy of 75,000 hours which means they are a true ‘fit and forget’ product. Based on six hours a day use they will last for thirty-four years which means in some cases, they could even outlast their owner! Fit the light and forget about replacing another bulb ever again.
If you are looking for dimmable LED downlights then check out our LED compatible dimmer switches, we stock a huge range including leading edge and trailing edge in a variety of finishes. Trailing edge dimmers switches have a much lower minimum load making them ideal for LED lights.
If recessed downlights aren't your thing or not suitable for your room type then check our our range of LED and bathroom spotlights. We now offer a huge selection from brands like Philips and Astro lighting.
The latest craze to hit homes across the UK is the brilliant LED Strip lights. They have been used commercially for a long time, however with the price of LED Strips becoming more affordable, the flexibility of their use and the beautiful lighting effects have brought LED Strip lighting to the eye of the residential population. These simple yet effective LEDs can be installed by anyone. The superb mechanical qualities allow the LED strip to bend and flex to almost any convex surface. Please see the main LED strip page for our guide and installation advice as well as our very own video on LED Strip.
