LED Downlights Buying Guide

LED downlights are one of the brighter and energy-efficient solutions of modern days. But, choosing the right LED downlights is challenging; as the market is full with lots of options. Hence, a few considerations can narrow down your choices. Let’s know them.

Installing Location

Before buying LED lights, you need to consider the location where you are going to fix it. You need to buy different lights for a separate room in your household. Like, consider downlights with a minimum of IP44 rating for bathroom.

The bathroom has airborne moisture, so it should have a degree of protection against water access. Also, consider the height of the ceiling and a gap of 3 between the light and ceiling edge. For a high ceiling, you'll need a high power LED.

Color Temperature

The temperature represents the color of the light. It is measured in kelvins like 3000K, 4000K, and more. The higher means, the brighter and hot lights. You'll need warm white color light for the place you need warmth like a bedroom. Similarly, choose cool white for kitchen and laundry. Consider the same for commercial buildings as well.

Light Intensity

It means the total output of the light source, which is denoted by lumens. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the downlight will be. If you need brighter downlight, you’ll need to check the light intensity.

Energy efficiency

Modern downlights are much more energy-efficient than older fluorescent lights. It is measured as wattage (W). But, there is a trade-off between energy and light intensity. A 12W LED downlight provides the same brightness as a 24W CFL or a 55Whalogen downlights. So, choose accordingly. If you are still confused then check the chart below;

Beam Angle

Beam angle denotes as the spread of light from the source. The wider the beam angle, the softer the light it delivers. Likewise, the narrow the angle the sharp and concentrated light it will produce. Usually, downlight with wide beam angle is suitable for general ambient lighting. The narrow beam angle downlights are perfect for spotlighting. Hence, choose your condition.

Dimmable or Not?

Most downlight comes with a dimmable option to control the light output. If you need flexibility in lighting, then choose downlight with this feature. Similarly, non-dimmable downlights offer intense lighting, which is best for commercial use.

Frame

Downlights frame can be either fixed or gimble. Downlight with gimple frame allows changing the direction of light. It is perfect for the household. Also, the fixed frame is ideal for general purpose lighting.

Additional Features

Apart from all these, you need to check more. Like, check the surface socket-outlets for installation and replacement purpose. Then, check the IC rating to understand whether it is suitable to with your building insulation. Also, check the cut-out size and warranty of the downlight.

In brief!

You'll surely be able to get the right downlight if you consider all the factor. So, it's to renovate your home or business place with a touch of elegance.