Halogen bulbs for spot and concentrated lighting

Halogen lighting is used mostly for spot and concentrated lighting, e.g. in the kitchen and bathroom. Be aware that many different types with varying energy efficiency are available.

Halogen bulbs for spotlighting
Halogen bulbs have the same colour qualities as incandescents, which can be useful in places like the kitchen. Halogen bulbs should not normally be used for general room lighting because this type of lighting generally requires many halogen bulbs, resulting in high electricity consumption.

Good advice when using halogen lighting

  • Look for the most energy efficient types. A bulb's energy efficiency varies. The most energy efficient bulbs are typically described as Energy Saver (ES) or Infrared Coating (IRC). You can get help from your retailer to find the most energy efficient version of the light source you use.
  • Avoid standby consumption by the transformer. Halogen bulbs are available for normal (230 volt) and low (typically 12 volt) voltages. Low voltage bulbs require a transformer, which uses power on standby. You can avoid this by switching off at the mains plug.
  • Be careful. Halogen bulbs get very hot, so it is important to fit them at least 50 cm away from combustible materials.
  • Take your old bulb with you when you buy a new one. Halogen bulbs come in many varieties with different sockets. You'll be sure to get the right bulb if you have your old one with you. At the same time you'll be able to check that the output power and spread of the light is the same.
  • Keep a look out for LEDs. These are worth considering as energy friendly alternatives to halogens as spotlights. Read more about LEDs

Facts on efficiency

  • The efficiency of low voltage bulbs is between 12 and 27 lumen per watt depending on size and type.
  • The old types of halogen bulbs are typically around 10 and 15 lumen per watt. These have roughly the same low efficiency as ordinary incandescents.
  • Lifetime is 2,000-5,000 hours.

Page last updated 09.09.2009