Switch to LED bulbs
LEDs are an increasingly common sight in builders merchants, DIY stores and supermarkets. But where can they be used, and how do you choose?
Where can LEDs be used?
LEDs are small and robust and have a very long lifetime. LEDs assembled in a bulb can be used in ordinary lamps because the socket is the same as on incandescent and halogen bulbs.
LEDs project their light in a forward direction and are therefore mostly suited to lamps that are used as downlighters or spots for example. Also, they are particularly recommended for places that do not require too much light. LED bulbs do not emit quite as much light as ordinary bulbs – at the most equivalent to 40 watts from a conventional incandescent bulb.
LEDs currently available can easily replace low light-emitting incandescent and halogen bulbs, e.g. max. 40 watts. However, some LED bulbs emit so little light that they can really only be compared with incandescent bulbs rated at 5-10 watts.
Choose the right LED – follow the Trust’s 4 tips
- LEDs should have a compatible socket that fits the lamps.
- The light should suit both the lamp and the function of the light. Remember that LEDs project their light in a forward direction, but can have a slightly wider or narrower light beam depending on the type.
- The light should be powerful enough for their purpose. As yet, LEDs cannot replace 60 watt incandescent bulbs because they do not emit a sufficient amount of light.
- Choose LEDs with good colour rendering. Light from white LEDs can be both warm and cold. You get the best colour rendering if the so-called colour rendering index (CRI, also known as the Ra index) is at least 80.
How they look
If you would like to see examples of how LEDs are already being used in both private companies and public sector organisations, you can visit our Public and Commerce section and see examples of LED applications.
Page last updated 08.03.2010