Kelvin Colour Temperature Explained

Posted on 19th September 201916th May 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 16th May 2023

Colour temperature is a relatively new consideration in household lighting. Forty years ago, a bulb was just a bulb. The amount of watts was the only real decision to be made when replacing bulbs.

Modern lighting, however, has brought more choice with it. The colour temperature scale is a way of measuring all types of lighting technology, both old and new.

Colour Temperature Theory

During the 19th Century, British physician William Thompson (Lord Kelvin) devised the Kelvin temperature scale. During his research he heated a block of carbon, which began to glow red, then yellow, and finally produced a bright blue-white light.

The path of these changing colours is the essence of the Kelvin scale because each colour occurs at a specific temperature. For example, the filament of an incandescent or halogen bulb produces a yellow light at a temperature of 2700 kelvin (2700 K).
The one thing to remember is that a higher kelvin colour temperature equals to a cooler bluer looking light. Lower colour temperatures mean a warmer light.

Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT)

In an incandescent or halogen light bulb, kelvin temperature describes both the colour of the light and the actual temperature of the filament. Because LED’s and fluorescents do not use heat to create light, their colour temperature is estimated in relation to the colour of the light. This is called ‘correlated colour temperature’ (CCT).

OUTSIDE THE HOME

Many people choose a welcoming warm white light for their home exterior. Our exclusive Edit Pimlico LED Outdoor Wall Light emits a 3000K light and looks fantastic by the front door.

For home protection, the 5000K cool white Lutec Draco 17.5W LED Smart Floodlight delivers a crisp, bright light, giving it extra impact as a security light.

HALLWAYS

A warm and welcoming light is ideal for the hallway. This is also a common place to find pictures and paintings. A warm-light fitting such as the 3000K Slimline Battery Operated LED Picture Light will emphasise the reds in a picture. However, the cooler 4000K Edit Graph 59 LED Picture Light will complement bluer tones.

KITCHENS

Cooler lights are a good choice for the kitchen as they promote alertness.
Under-cabinet lights such as the Eterna Economy 8W Cool White LED T5 Linkable Strip Lights are a fine choice for the work surfaces. This fitting is a connectable strip light and can be extended with multiple fittings, making it ideal for long worktops.

BATHROOMS

Bathroom lights are more commonly cool white to increase alertness and give your room a cleaner feel, however some people still prefer warm lights as they are more suited to bathroom relaxation.

The Integral Evofire Fire Rated Cool White Downlight is available in cool options, and can be dimmed for perfect mood lighting.

BEDROOMS

In the bedroom, a cosy warm white light is usually desirable. Reading lights are popular bedroom fittings, usually with a warm white bulb. The Carrie Reading Light is compatible with warm white bulbs, and we recommend the Envirolight Dimmable LED to offer a long lifespan and years of maintenance-free use.

LIVING ROOMS

In a living room or dining room you’ll usually want a warm, relaxing quality of light – and often dimmable is a requirement for our customers. The Edit Omera Velvet Lamp Shade is a stunning, warm lighting solution, combined with a unique base and greatly complemented by a warm white bulb.

If you are looking for more great information? Try our Lighting Ideas section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Andrew is an experienced buying professional who takes an entrepreneurial approach to identify new lighting solutions and ensure Lyco have first-to-market ranges for our customers. Having previously worked for well known brands such as Wickes, Carphone Warehouse and Toys R Us, Andrew has now turned his hand to sourcing commercial lighting and ensure our customers receive top brand quality products at marketing leading prices. He manages a team of commercial and decorative buyers who travel the world finding new products that our customers don’t even know they need yet.

Driveway Lights – Lighting Your Way Home

Posted on 10th September 201919th October 2022 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 19th October 2022

Lighting your driveway adds an extra layer of safety and security to your home.

If you’re returning home late at night, driveway lights can guide you and your car safely into position without scraping paintwork or damaging fences, garden furniture, or walls.

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing lights for your driveway. The style of lighting you want and the type of installation required is fundamental.

Installing your driveway lights

Low voltage lighting

One of the chief advantages of low voltage outdoor lighting is that it can be safely installed without electrical expertise. This is a good option for anyone willing or able to partake in a little DIY.

Regular electrical current

You can run electricity from your house out to the driveway, but you’ll need a qualified electrician to carry out the installation. Outdoor mains cables have to be buried in a deep trench (deeper in unpaved areas) to avoid potentially fatal accidents.

Choosing the perfect driveway lighting

Ground lights

When it comes to lighting a driveway, most people tend to opt for ground lights. They’re a popular choice because they give the driveway a modern look, are unobtrusive and relatively easy to install. Ground lights are generally sold individually and come in a range of colours and shapes, so you can get creative and add character to your driveway.

Many ground lights can withstand the weight of cars driving over them. This will always be specified by Lighting Direct, so you can be sure of buying the right product. The drive-over Adelpha Ground Light has a recessed design that allows a perfectly flush, discreet installation. With a tough polycarbonate diffuser this light is built to withstand up to 2,000 kg weight.

If you don’t intend to be driving over the lights, ground lights can still be used to highlight the boundary of your driveway, install them along the perimeter of your drive and make it easier for you to park well within them. Lighting Direct offer the great value Edit Monday ground light and the Edit Mark LED ground light. These dust-tight, submersible fittings use LEDs for extremely low energy consumption and long life.

If you live within 10 miles of the coast, it’s important to find ground lights that are coastal resistant that won’t damage easily due to the high salt levels. The Faro Barcelona ground light is a domed matt nickel finish ground light that is suitable as a drive over light and is IP67 rated.

Driveway post lights

Post lights are useful for marking out your driveway perimeter, making it easy to manoeuvre your car in and out of position when light is low. They never become covered in snow or leaf debris like ground-installed lighting.

You can space post lights out along your driveway as you see fit (you might want to do this asymmetrically with a long drive—avoiding the runway effect), and even blend them into your rockery or garden features.

Whether you’re seeking traditional or contemporary lighting for your driveway, Lighting Direct has a vast range of post lights with different designs, heights and finishes. The Lucide Fedor Outdoor Bollard Light provides a contemporary lighting solution, with a satin chrome finish and stylish decorative filament bulb to guide you and your vehicle to a safe standstill.

The Edit Birch LED Outdoor Garden Post Light Kit is everything you need to light up your driveway. It comes with everything you need to get started, plus it is part of our low voltage connectable light range which means (with a little of DIY) you won’t need to pay for an electrician to get you set up.

Need more inspiration? Check out our Lighting Ideas section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Where Next?

IP Ratings Explained

Posted on 8th September 201915th April 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 15th April 2021

When shopping for outdoor or bathroom lighting, you will most probably have been confronted by a mysterious IP code that is followed by two numbers. This code was designed to provide us non-experts with an easy to understand description of how well-protected a light fitting is.

For those of you who don’t have an encyclopaedic knowledge of International, European, and British Standard codes here is a helpful guide to what they mean and examples of how a product and a situation match up with an IP code.

IP Broken Down

What does the code actually mean? Well, each part of the code is designed to give you information and help you decide if the fitting you are looking at is suitable for where you want to put it.

Firstly – IP

The IP in the code is short for Ingress Protection – as in how well protected a fitting is.

Digit 1 – Solids

The first digit tells you how well protected a fitting is against solids – such as dust, and other objects. The higher the number the more protected it is. On occasion you may find the digit represented by an X. This means the value has not been determined, usually because the product hasn’t been tested for protection against solid objects. For full details check out Table 1 below.

Digit 2 – Liquid

The second digit is used to tell you about the level of liquid protection: 0 being not protected and, the highest value of 8 being safe to submerge in more than 1 meter of water. For a full rundown check out Table 2 below.

IP Rating First Digit

Digit 1
Number	Size of object	Protects against
0	—	No protection against contact or entrance by any object
1	>50 mm	Protection against any large surface area of the body but not deliberate tampering or force
2	>12.5 mm	Fingers or similar sized tools and objects
3	>2.5 mm	Thick wires, tools and similar-sized foreign bodies
4	>1 mm	Most wires, screws, etc.
5	Dust protected	Protected against dust – it has to enter in large amounts to interfere with operation. Complete protection against contact
6	Dust tight	Impossible for dust to enter; complete protection against any foreign body
X	Undetermined	Indicates that protection against solid objects is not defined

IP Rating Second Digit

Digit 2
Number	Protects against	Tested for
0	Not protected	—
1	Dripping water	Dripping water – no damaging effect when tested against vertical falling water drops
2	Dripping water when tilted up to 15°	Vertically dripping water has no damaging effect when the light enclosure is tilted at an angle up to 15° from its usual position.
3	Spraying water	Water falling as a spray at any angle up to 60° has no damaging effect
4	Splashing water	Water splashing against light enclosure from any direction has no damaging effect
5	Water jets	Water projected by a nozzle (6.3mm) against light enclosure from any direction shall have no damaging effect
6	Powerful water jets	Water projected in powerful jets (12.5mm nozzle) against the light enclosure from any direction has no damaging effect
7	Immersion up to 1 m	Water won’t infiltrate even when light enclosure is immersed in water up to 1m in depth
8	Immersion beyond 1 m	The equipment is suitable for continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer. Normally, this will mean that the equipment is hermetically sealed but in some cases, certain types of light enclosures can let some water in, but in a way that won’t be detrimental to the function of the light.

Security, Whatever The Weather…

Anybody looking for a security light wants them to be durable and protected against the extremities, whether they are to be situated indoors or outdoors. Mostly designed for outdoor use, some have a higher IP rating than others, which can range from an IP of 44 to 68. The Dan Outdoor Wall Lig ht with PI R Sensor, for instance, is suitable for use in outdoor buildings such as your garage, shed or porch, with an IP Rating of 44. This means it’s safeguarded against foreign bodies 1mm+ thick and against splashing water. If you want your security light placed in a completely unsheltered area, then the 10W Daylight LED Floodlight with PIR Sensor, which is IP65, is just one of the models you could choose. The 6 rating means it is completely dust tight, while the 5 means it’s protected against pressurized water jets from any direction.

Decking Den…

If you are re-designing your garden and building a sheltered decking or patio area for you and your family to relax in, then you need lights that are protected but not at the highest end of the scale. The Techmar Ludeco Walover Lights has an IP Rating of 44, so is protected against small foreign bodies such as stray screws and wires from entering, as well as spraying water. It is hardy and durable and will light up your decking den like a dream.

Follow The Yellow Lit Path…

Our range of outdoor lighting at Lighting Direct varies in IP Rating, so it all depends on what you want it for as to what model you should pick. If you simply want something that makes a statement in terms of style and is rainproof, the Searchlight Stoma Outdoor Lantern Wall Light will definitely do that.

Ultimate Pressure

If you want lights that can withstand ultimate pressure then it’s best to go for models such as the Arigo LED Garden Spotlight or the Robus Garland Walkover Lights. Both have an IP Rating of 68, the highest on the scale, meaning they are completely dust tight and can withstand continuous immersion in water in excess of 1 metre. This makes them ideal for lighting up your garden path or pond or water feature. It is always best however, to check manufacturer’s instructions to ensure your chosen lights are suitable, i.e. placing in a swimming pool.

If you’re still unsure of what IP Rating to go for, you can always get in contact with our experienced sales team who will be able to assist with any queries you have.

Call us: 0345 646 1137
Email us: [email protected]

Otherwise…

Take a look at our full range of bathroom lighting
Take a look at our extensive range of outdoor lights

Looking for inspiration or more guidance? Check out our Lighting Ideas section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

New research shows smart lighting is taking over our homes… and gardens

Posted on 27th April 201829th July 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th July 2021

Smart home technology is changing the way in which we use light in our homes. Increased adoption of smart speakers, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomePod, is helping to shift our behaviour by giving us complete control over our lighting – all through the power of our voice. What’s more, the ability to control lighting via a mobile app is also an attractive proposition for many homeowners – particularly when you consider the level of customisation that most modern smart bulbs allow for at the touch of a button (or swipe of a thumb!).

We recently asked our customers how they feel about smart lighting, and the results confirm that not only is smart lighting taking over our homes, it could soon be taking over our gardens too!

In fact, the research revealed that over a quarter (28%) of respondents are already using smart lighting as part of their daily lives. And for those who don’t yet have smart lighting in their homes, half are considering installing it in the near future. Why? The main reasons are increasing home security (41%), reducing carbon footprint (21%), and keeping in touch with the latest tech trends (17%).

Smart lighting can be scheduled to turn on and off at set times

Endless possibilities

As well as offering homeowners many practical benefits, such as turning on lighting remotely before you arrive at home, or turning off lights after you leave, smart lighting can also be used in a number of fun ways, including programming your lighting to:

flash in your sport’s team’s colour when they score
change colour, based on the weather
be just the right colour temperature and warmth to help your child fall asleep
mimic the sun rising in order to wake you up in the morning
flash when you receive a text message or email.

Philips Hue lets you play with 16 million colours!

We predict a ‘smart summer’

Whilst the living room (65%), bedroom (38%), and hallway (30%) are the most popular rooms for smart lighting inside the home, the research also revealed that 63% of respondents are interested in outdoor smart lighting.

As homeowners contemplate longer, warmer evenings sat outdoors in their gardens, the idea of being able to change the colour of outdoor lights for a party, or illuminating flower beds with different colours, is clearly an appealing one.

Smart tips for smart lighting

Smart lights are only ‘smart’ when they are connected to the internet, so before investing in new smart bulbs it is important to ensure that you have the right foundation on which to build a connected lighting ecosystem. From a technical point of view, users should consider the following key points:

check the WiFi coverage in areas where the lights will be used
check the brand of lightbulbs being purchased will integrate with existing smart devices such as smart speakers
check any associated apps are compatible with your smartphone or tablet device.

Providing these boxes can be ticked, then there’s nothing to stop you from enjoying smart lighting in your home. To find out more and to view our wide range of smart lighting products, including products from leading suppliers such as Philips Hue, WiZ, and iDual, visit our smart home page.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Dimmers – how to avoid flickering or buzzing

Posted on 4th April 201819th January 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 19th January 2023

Dimmers allow you to achieve the exact light level that you desire in a room and consequently alter the mood to whatever you choose.

There are various types of dimming options available, but the most popular are ‘phase control’ (or phase-cut) dimmers which by ‘chopping out’ parts of the voltage and so reduce power to the light bulb or lamp.

There are two types of phase control dimmer available, ‘trailing-edge’ and ‘leading-edge’, and they work in different ways which ultimately affects their compatibility with certain lightbulbs:

Leading-edge dimmers

Leading-edge dimmer switches are cheaper and simpler than trailing-edge, and were used originally to dim incandescent and halogen bulbs or wirewound magnetic transformers.

Many existing leading-edge dimmer switches have a relatively high minimum load, which often rules out their use with modest LED lighting circuits. However, leading-edge dimmers are by far the most common dimming control in existence.

Trailing-edge Dimmers

Trailing-edge dimmers are more sophisticated than leading-edge dimmers, and usually provide a much smoother dimming control, absent of any buzzing noise, and are ideal for use in most homes.

A trailing-edge dimmer has a lower minimum load (often 10W or below) than leading-edge dimmers, making it a better choice for dimming modestly sized low-powered lighting circuits.

Particularly beneficial for incandescent and halogen bulbs is the ‘soft start’ feature in trailing-edge dimmers, which prevents filament bulbs from dying or exploding of thermal shock when first switched on.

One example of an excellent trailing-edge dimmer switch is the Matt Black Screwless 1-Gang 2-Way Trailing Edge Dimmer.

LED lights and dimming

Unlike incandescent bulbs, which are all dimmable by default, LED bulbs have a built-in driver in their base. The driver converts AC power to DC power and maintains a constant current to the LED. This is at odds with a phase control dimming system, since the driver attempts to compensate for the sliced-out portions of input voltage.

LED fixtures such as downlights usually include the LED driver, either of a ‘constant current’ or ‘constant voltage’ type, depending on the LED array design. In either case, the same issue arises: the LED driver or power supply will try to patch up the missing parts of input voltage. In theory, LEDs should be fully dimmable, and normally they are – provided they are paired with a compatible driver.

However, widespread LED compatibility problems exist, and often supposedly dimmable LED driver designs only work with selective dimming control systems. These problems show up in a number of ways, including flickering, flashing, and dead travel.

How to avoid LED dimmer compatibility issues

For an LED lightbulb to work with a phase control dimmer, the electronics of its driver must be compatibly adapted.

Leading-edge dimmer switches are sometimes called ‘incandescent dimmers’, because they were originally designed to handle the resistive load of incandescent light. Existing dimmer switches tend to have high minimum loads and may require multiple LED lamps in order to even have a chance of working.

For an increased chance of compatibility, trailing-edge dimmer switches tend to work better with the capacitive load of an LED driver. The Varilight V-Pro LED Dimmer 1 x 300W is from the award-winning V-Pro range. It has an industry-wide reputation for delivering one of the best LED dimming performances available.

Research & Investment

If you’re installing a dimmable LED circuit from scratch, it’s worth checking out the bulbs that you’re likely to use and then look for a list of tested dimmer switches. Most leading bulb manufacturers test their dimmable lamps with a variety of switches and publish lists of known compatible models.

Similarly, you can upgrade your existing dimmers and so avoid compatibility headaches. What’s more, such an investment is likely to extend the lifespan of the lamps you buy, giving you an added incentive.

Remember, also, that LED bulbs are more complex than incandescent, so sticking to the same model of bulb is advisable when you find a winning formula. Once you have everything working, the many benefits of LED dimming will become apparent and transform the lighting in your home!

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

What are lumens and why should I care?

Posted on 4th September 201729th July 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th July 2021

When comparing different light bulbs, most people look at wattage as a measure of brightness. However, due to the widespread adoption of LED technology, this unit of measurement is becoming less and less relevant; now, it’s all about the lumens.

So what are ‘lumens’?

Lumens are defined as “a unit of luminous flux in the International System of Units, that is equal to the amount of light given out through a solid angle by a source of one candela intensity radiating equally in all directions“. Great, but what does that actually mean? Put simply, lumens measure the total amount of light produced by a light source; in other words, the brightness of the light.

Lumens Vs. Watts

Watts measure the amount of energy that is used by a light bulb to produce light. However, with bulbs becoming more energy efficient, this measurement does not always provide an accurate steer on levels of brightness. And then when you consider that the sole purpose of a light bulb is to illuminate an area, it makes perfect sense to compare different bulbs based on the level of light they produce – and not the energy they use.

Low energy LED bulbs, for example, are able to produce a higher light output without using as much power; a 6.5W LED bulb will give a similar light output to a 50W halogen bulb! In this scenario, if you were comparing the wattages of both bulbs you would think the halogen bulb was far brighter due to the higher wattage, however this is not the case.

As helpful pointer, many LED bulbs come with an equivalent watt specification that make it easier to compare ‘old’ bulbs with ‘new’ ones; however, remember that this is only an approximate comparison.

A technical point: lumens and useful lumens

When comparing lumens levels, it is important to understand that they are measured differently across the various styles of bulbs. When measuring lumens for non-directional bulbs such as globe, golfball, or candle shaped bulbs, the lumens output is measured in all directions. However, with directional bulbs, such as spotlights, some of the light produced may be ‘wasted’, but is still counted in the total lumens rating.

To allow for an easier comparison between bulbs, a useful lumens rating was introduced. This rating only measures light that is released in a 90° cone from the centre of the bulb, ignoring any spilt or ‘wasted’ light. When comparing the lumens rating vs. the useful lumens rating, you will notice that the useful lumens rating is lower. However, this measurement is far more accurate for spotlights as the light is only emitted in one direction.

Hmm. How many lumens do I need?

Each room around your home will have its own lighting needs, and therefore varying levels of lumens will be required in order to achieve your desired lighting effects. Unfortunately, there isn’t an exact science around the number of lumens required as the room size, ceiling height, and colour scheme will all impact the number of lumens needed in each room. For example, a large room with a high ceiling and dark walls will require a higher number of lumens compared to a smaller, lighter room.

As a useful steer, take a look at this cheat sheet:

For the energy conscious among us, wattage will always be an important measurement of how energy efficient a bulb is. However, if you want a true understanding of how bright your bulb will be, then make sure you keep a close eye on your lumens.

To find out more about lumens check out of handy video below:

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Plug And Play Lights – An Introduction

Posted on 14th August 201415th August 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 15th August 2023

The right lighting can help to create the perfect garden atmosphere, and thanks to the wonders of Plug and Play lights, installing your outdoor lighting system couldn’t be easier – in fact, all you need is a screwdriver.

Plug and Play garden lighting is so safe and simple to set up anyone can do it – there’s no need for an electrician, and you don’t need any special tools. The fact that they are low voltage means there’s no danger to children and pets, and watertight screw connectors are used throughout.

How Does It Work?

Click image to enlarge

Essentials

In order to setup your Plug & Play Lighting system, essentially you will need 3 components:

Choose your combination of lights. Feel free to mix and match too – because everything links to the same main connecting cable, there’s no need to worry about compatibility.
Choose the correct transformer. The next step is to add up the wattages of the individual lights to work out how much power you need in total. Transformers are available in 22W, 60W and 150W wattages to suit different needs. The required wattage of the transformer needs to be greater than the total combined wattage of all the lights you have selected.
Choose your main connecting cable, either 10m with 4 ports or 15m with 6 ports.

From there it’s simply a matter of running the main connecting cable through the garden and attaching the connectors on to the individual fittings. Extension cables and extra connectors can be added separately if required.

Depending on the individual plug and play lights you select you may need a screwdriver to attach the lights to their fittings, and you may want to bury the cables in the ground or out of sight (though this is by no means necessary), but besides from plugging it into the mains you’re all done – your Plug and Play lights are ready to go!

Optional Extras

To give extra flexibility to your Plug & Play Lighting system, you can also choose from a range of additional extras including: 3 way connector, PIR sensor, dusk to dawn sensor, extension cables and remote controls.

Plug And Play Lights: Your Options

The beauty of the Plug and Play lighting system is that you can choose from a wide range of lighting products and connect them to the same system.

- Spotlights: available in a range of sizes and materials, spotlights are ideal for illuminating specific areas of the garden you want to draw attention to. A classic example is the Catalpa Spotlight Single Extension. This durable and robust fitting is perfect for adding atmospheric illumination to your garden.

- Uplighters: a more subtle approach than spotlights is to use uplighting to draw attention to specific details and features of your garden from below. Take the Cylon Square Garden Light a compact and contemporary fitting. It’s a great little accent light that will add depth and character.

- Post lighting: vertical post lights are perfect for illuminating pathways or placing between plants. The wide range of available options include halogen, LED and light bulb posts. The Linum LED Post Light is an excellent choice for lining path or driveways and is also very suitable for incorporating into a patio design.

- Wall lighting: for illuminating a whole area of the garden rather than drawing attention to a single feature, wall lights are the way to go as the lights are fixed to a higher position than ground-based alternatives. The Callisto LED Garden Wall Light for example has traditional charm and would look gorgeous next to a large oak door nested in ivy.

- Deck Lights are the perfect way to highlight your decking area with style and poise. If you have taken the time and effort to lay your decking yourself you can finish the job without the need for an electrician with plug and play lighting. The Umbra Deck Light is a great example of this type of easy to install ground light.

Atmospheric lighting: strategically placed LED or halogen-based atmospheric lights – such as in trees or along pathways – can finish things off nicely and help create the perfect mood in your garden. The Alder LED Spotlights – Set of 3 are stake lights that are really easy to reposition as required. They are great when sited in flowerbeds to show off everything that is in bloom after dark.

Plug And Play At The End Of The Day

It’s fair to say that Plug and Play Lights mean you can create a truly illuminated garden for everyone to enjoy safe in the knowledge that it won’t cost the earth (financially or environmentally) and it can be done with minimal effort.

Looking for more inspiration? Go to Lighting Ideas.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Bulkhead lighting explained

Posted on 6th January 201429th September 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th September 2023

Bulkhead lighting may not be the first thing that springs to mind when it comes to sprucing up the exterior of your house. Although generally thought of as a functional light bulkheads can in some cases add real character to your home or business premises.

For some, the word bulkhead may bring to mind a wall inside the hull of a ship, or within the fuselage of an aeroplane, which is one of the word’s other meanings. However, when it comes to lighting your home, garden or commercial property, the term ‘bulkhead’ refers to a very specific type of light.

What is bulkhead lighting?

Bulkhead lights provide a robust style of lighting for outside areas and large indoor spaces. They’re often used by businesses and in industrial areas where bright light is needed constantly. Bulkhead lights are designed to be tough enough to withstand dust, water and even acts of vandalism. They provide large amounts of light which in itself can act as a deterrent to vandals and thieves. It’s because of their durable design and impressive lighting ability that you’ll find bulkhead lights in underground car parks, on outside walls, and inside warehouses and large commercial buildings.

Bulkhead lights are also a useful security addition to the outside of your house and perfect for garage lighting. They also make dark garden pathways safer and easier to navigate.

So what’s available?

If it’s outdoor lighting you’re after, take a look at our Hawk LED Bulkhead, which is protected against rain, dust and jets of water, making it a good choice for industrial areas. The light also has a dusk-to-dawn feature, which provides light during the night as a deterrent to thieves and vandals, then turns itself off during the day.

If you’re looking at lighting solutions for your business, the Fumagalli Bulkhead is a versatile option, which can be used outdoors. It’s robust, vandal resistant and hardy enough to withstand the elements. The eyelid design ensures the light is directed downwards and not over fences into other people’s homes or businesses.

A number of our bulkhead lights are also appropriate for interior applications. The Neat Flush Light has a sleek rounded design and it also comes in a square and rectangular shape. The light can be used inside a shower cubicle or to brighten up your bathroom area, either by attaching it to your bathroom wall or ceiling.

Another stylish option for interior lighting comes from the Golf Low Energy Bulkhead, which comes in a choice of polished finishes – cool chrome or white. It can be wall or ceiling mounted and uses a low-energy bulb, which delivers around 12,000 hours of light. Click here to view our full range of bulkhead lights.

Looking for more inspiration? Try our Lighting Ideas section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Fluorescent Strip Lighting explored

Posted on 16th September 201315th September 2022 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 15th September 2022

They may cost a little more than most other forms of lights, but today’s fluorescent strip lights more than pay for themselves in improved lighting performance and energy efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at how fluorescent lighting can brighten up your home or home office, and save you money in the process.

Multiple options

Strip lights are a popular alternative to your standard incandescent lighting solution, offering a more even spread of light and a physical form factor that’s equally at home subtly illuminating the inside of a cabinet as it is bathing a large kitchen in bright light.

The emergence of LED strip lighting has only added to that flexibility, providing increased efficiency and taking up less space in the process.

But while cabinet strip lights and LED flexistrip lights are perfect for adding subtle lighting highlights to just about any space in the home, fluorescent strip lighting is designed to take centre stage as a room’s main lighting source.

Fluorescent or batten strip lighting is by no means a stranger to our homes, but traditionally the slightly cold quality of the light produced, not to mention the stark appearance of the lights themselves, has limited its appeal in most people’s minds and lent it more to use in office spaces.

However, with energy efficiency and running costs more important than ever these days, fluorescent lighting is being seen as an increasingly attractive alternative to traditional incandescent lights not only in the kitchen or garage but elsewhere in the home too.

Advances in technology has dramatically improved the lifespan and running efficiency of even entry-level fluorescent lighting products, and with adapters enabling you to use the latest T8 or T5 tubes in your existing fluorescent lighting setup, this is one technology with a bright future.

Key advantages

Fluorescent strip lights are typically more expensive than standard incandescent lighting up front, but offer considerable benefits longer term. Let’s take a closer look…

Better illumination

Fluorescent strip lights are more efficient than their incandescent counterparts at the basic business of turning electric current into light, but they also deliver a purer light too. By default this might not suit typically ‘softer’ environments such as the living room or bedroom, but for the home office, kitchen, bathrooms, utility spaces and garage, for example, fluorescent lighting delivers the best and most consistent results.

Lower running costs

The most obvious benefit from fluorescent strip lights is the efficient use of power. Fluorescent lights use less energy in the first place, which means reduced running costs. That’s never a bad thing in anyone’s book, but with energy costs an increasingly heavy burden for many UK homes, the cost-saving involved in using fluorescent strip lights is a bigger plus point than ever before.

Less heat

So if incandescent lighting isn’t as good at turning power into light, what is happening to all that lost energy? The answer is it is being converted into heat, or a large part of it is anyway. Particularly in compact spaces with less than ideal ventilation, traditional incandescent lights can make a marked difference to the ambient temperature, making the environment increasingly uncomfortable and also making it more difficult to keep the temperature constant in surrounding areas.

Longer lifespan

Their greater efficiency and lower running temperature means fluorescent tubes are durable and long-lasting too, with even entry-level T8 tubes typically offering around 9,000 hours of illumination, which at an average of say five hours a day means it’ll be as much as five years before you need to replace the tube. Opt for a high efficiency T5 setup and you could be looking at three times that lifespan.

Types of fluorescent tube

Modern fluorescent strip lights all carry a T-rating, invariably T4, T5, T8 or T12. Strictly speaking, this is a measure of the diameter of the fluorescent tube in eighths of an inch – in other words, a T8 light measures eight eighths of an inch, in other words one inch, across, with the T standing for “tubular”.

In practical terms, however, this code is more a reference to the age and energy efficiency of a lighting product. T8 technology is newer and more energy efficient than older T12 products, and T5 is another step forward again.

T5 fluorescent lights are rated to last as long as 20,000 hours, and their very low mercury content make them kinder to the environment than older-generation products. The latest High Efficiency (HE) and High Output (HO) products deliver even higher life expectancy and lighting quality respectively, giving you even more flexibility in choosing the right fluorescent strip light to suit your needs.

Fluorescent strip lights in the home

With such a flexible range of products and technologies to choose from, fluorescent strip lights represent a versatile lighting solution in any number of settings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Kitchen

The kitchen has always been a popular location for fluorescent strip lights, but even if yours already uses fluorescent lights it’s still worth considering an upgrade to a newer, more efficient and more stylish lighting solution. For an added touch of class, meanwhile, ultra-compact T4 fluorescent tubes are perfect for kitchen counter or worktop illumination, requiring as much as eight times less power to run than traditional bulbs.

Suggested product

T8 5ft Twin Eterna Fluorescent Light: this multi-purpose all-rounder is durable and high frequency technology means added efficiency and better colour rendering.

Home office

For the home office you ideally want bright and even lighting throughout, so an overhead fluorescent strip light is the obvious choice from the start. Many home offices have the lights switched on all day, so the improved energy efficiency of the latest T5 fluorescent lights can add up to a serious cost saving over the long term.

Suggested product

T5 5 Foot Twin Cat 2 Louvre Fluorescent Light: this great looking and ultra-efficient T5 light features a low brightness louvre and prismatic panels in an aesthetically pleasing package.

Utility room

The low heat output and even lighting qualities of fluorescent strip lights make them a far better choice than traditional incandescent lights for illuminating utility rooms, which are more often than not quite compact and cluttered spaces.

Suggested product

4ft Single T8 Prismatic Fluorescent: durable and energy efficient, complete with UV stabilised, clear styrene diffuser.

Garage/Outhouse

External spaces such as garages and outhouses are often less finished than the rest of the house, and can’t rely on ambient light from adjoining rooms either, which makes the bright and powerful nature of fluorescent strip lights a sensible choice.

Suggested product

T8 5ft Single Fluorescent Light: no nonsense affordable fluorescent strip lighting that’s cheap to run over the long term too.

Need more inspiration? Try our Lighting Ideas section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Top 10 Lights for your Hallway

Posted on 23rd August 201315th August 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 15th August 2023

SEARCHLIGHT HALLWAY 5 LIGHT CASCADE CEILING PENDANT - CRYSTAL

You’ve revamped your bathroom, your kitchen, your living room and all the bedrooms; you’ve decked them out with rugs, squashy couches, fluffy towels, huge beds and all of the best designer lighting. But something’s not quite right – your house is missing that “wow-factor” and you’re not quite sure what it is. And then you realise – you have neglected your hallway! It still has the same faded carpet, stained walls and flowery lone lamp shade circa 1982 hanging forlornly from the ceiling. What to do? How do you know what lights to choose? What kind of style should you go for? A ceiling pendant, wall lights or a flush fitting? A chandelier, or is that too middle class bourgeoisie? To check out our hallway light fittings click here.

The hallway is a room full of momentous importance – if eyes are the window to the soul, then your hallway is definitely the window to your home and what kind of personality it has. And what better way to shed light on that soul than with some excellent lighting choices from Lighting Direct? Why not take a look at our Top Ten Hallway Lights Countdown for some inspiration?

Top Ten Rundown

At ten

If you have limited space in your hallway but still want to show off an eye-catching design with a unique style, choose the Luther 6 Light Semi-Flush. It combines satin chrome with crystal glass shades for a sparkly, pretty hall light that won’t intrude on space.

Nine is fine

If you live in a minimalist home, you will most likely veer towards the clean lines and modern design of the Ventana Glass Flush Fitting Ceiling Light. This light fitting is also great for those with limited space, as it is a flush fitting with a neutral colour. It does not however, lack in style thanks to a frosted glass diffuser with an acid etched grid design. It is also part of a coordinating range, for even more designer impact.

We rate eight

Another unique design that combines modern and classic in a hallway light, is the Factory Pendant. This beautifully simple pendant light has a wonderful design that is completely up-to-date but won’t go out of fashion fast. The antique brass effect finish with clear glass shade will fit into any colour scheme or decor – you could change the colour of your hallway again and again without changing your light fitting. Click here to view more beautiful pendant lights.

Seventh heaven

If you don’t want a main light in your hallway and would prefer several of the same wall lights, 2 Light Wall Light – Polished Chrome could be the solution. This polished chrome twin wall light has a very unusual but unobtrusive design. The contemporary metal with facetted glass shades are cuboid shaped. Just use one or two for an understated fashionable look, or more for a dramatic statement. (Also available in other finishes and with coordinated fittings)

Six is a hit

For extra “wow” factor, choose the Rosedal Light Semi-Flush. This completely gorgeous semi-flush hall light has been manufactured with polished chrome with facetted glass droplets. It is reminiscent of 1920s flapper glamour and would be sure to make you smile every time you opened your front door.

High five

From the 1920s to the 1930s, the Ardeche Pendant Fitting Large Clear combines vintage looking fluted glass with contemporary polished chrome trims. This is for those of you who appreciate certain design aspects of the old but prefer the robust and durable materials of the twenty-first century. It would be best suited to a hallway that combines both traditional and modern fittings. (Also available in other finishes)

Adore four

For those of you who want something that looks good but is also discreet, feast your eyes upon the Milo Ceramic Wall Light. Understated elegance and a curved ceramic shade will provide soft, warm and welcoming light in your hallway. This uplighter is also great if you want your light to fit in entirely with your colour scheme or if you want to make it a feature on its own, as you can paint it any colour you like. Simply leave it natural if you prefer the more classic look.

Third in place

If you want something completely decadent, the Italian-made 6 Light Chandelier gives you just that. Manufactured in 24% lead crystal with a polished chrome finish, it adds a luxurious touch from the moment you open the front door. It combines classic gothic with contemporary design, for those of you who like mixing the old with the new. There are also matching products available for that added wow factor.

Second to none

Carrying on the theme of decadence, but in a much more classic style, is the Ascot 8 Light Fitting. This elegant light has all the design of a past century, conjuring up images of ladies in corsets and dandy men. The beautiful looped drapes and candle bulb light fittings make it suited to a home that prefers more traditional styling.

And the winner is!

The gorgeous Galileo Fitting – 20 Light. 3m Drop. This stunning light with facetted crystal glass shades and a twenty light design can’t help but catch your eye. It will bounce the light around your hall and add sparkle. We think this unique light will look beautiful situated in the hallway, and will be an instant talking point for any friends or guests. There are also matching ceiling and wall lights in this range. Here are some alternatives for this light.

Take your pick

So now you’ve sneaked a peek at our favourite and best, it’s time for you to make a choice. Don’t forget though, there’s lots more on offer on our Lighting Direct website, so have a look and make sure you find the perfect hallway light for your home.

Need more inspiration? Check out our Lighting Ideas section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

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