BLT Direct

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Do Energy-Saving Light Bulbs Get Hot?

Yes energy saving light bulbs do get hot but not as hot as the traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs. There are 2 types of energy saving bulbs and they are CFL's (which are being phased out) and LED’s. Heat Generation in Energy-Saving Bulbs Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL’

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Where Are R7s Light Bulbs Used?

Where Are R7s Light Bulbs Used? R7s light bulbs are a linear double ended lamp used in a variety of lighting fittings and applications.  They are cylinder-like in shape and have metal caps at both ends which go into fittings with spring loaded holders.  They can be used in both

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Why Are the Plastic Lugs on My Compact Fluorescent Lamp in a Different Position?

When replacing CFL lamps you may have noticed that the lugs (pins) are in a different position to your bulb, some people think they are either faulty or incompatible but infact the difference is intentional.  The wattage of the CFL determines the position of the lugs ensuring that there is

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Who Invented the Light Bulb?

Thomas Edison is the person who is commonly associated with inventing the light bulb, however it evolved over decades of experiments from scientists and engineers from several different countries. Early experiments with electric light Electric lighting in the 1800’s consisted of a battery and a piece of carbon creating

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

When Were Incandescent Light Bulbs Banned?

The banning of incandescent bulbs has happened differently depending on which country you are in and many countries have chosen to do this as a gradual ban.  The focus of these bans has been to improve energy efficiency and to reduce carbon emissions.  Incandescent bulbs generate light by heating a

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Where are R80 Light Bulbs Used?

R80 light bulbs are a type of reflector lamp which are commonly used in homes and office situations for directional lighting. What does R80 mean on a light bulb? The R stands for reflector and the 80 is the diameter of the bulb.  These terms make it easier to differentiate

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

How long does an LED bulb last? Everything you need to know about the lifespan of an LED bulb

LED lighting technology has revolutionised and updated the options we have for home, retail and commercial lighting as we know it.  All LED bulbs will have a warranty to cover them lasting for a year minimum; often much longer.  And they use a much lower amount of wattage for the

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Why should you use Daylight bulbs in the kitchen?

With the large variety of bulbs and colour temperatures available it can be tricky to pick the right one for the right job.  We at BLT Direct would recommend using Daylight colour temperature bulbs in the kitchen due to their crisp bright light making it much easier to do the

Is COB LED Strip Waterproof?

COB LED strip can be waterproof, but their level of water resistance depends on their IP (Ingress Protection) rating. To ascertain the strip you require and the suitability of the installation please see the guidlines below: • IP65: Protected against water jets from any direction, suitable for outdoor use or high

What are popular uses for COB Led Strip Lights?

COB strip lights also known as COB LED tape are gaining popularity due to their bright and diffused lighting and ease of installation. It is a high-density strip that provides seamless, uninterrupted illumination along its entire length. Thanks to this feature, they can be applied in virtually all scenarios. Where

Can you get LED versions of Halogen MR11 Light Bulbs?

LED versions of halogen MR11 bulbs are now available and offer an easy way to improve efficiency without changing your fittings. This guide explains what to look for when switching—such as voltage type, beam angle, and brightness—so you can upgrade safely and enjoy longer-lasting,

Can you get LED versions of Halogen Capsules?

LED versions of halogen capsule bulbs are now widely available and offer a simple way to upgrade your lighting. This guide explains which LED capsules can replace traditional halogens, what to check for compatibility, and how switching can reduce energy use while maintaining good light quality.

Can MR16 light bulbs be swapped for Coloured versions?

The thing with MR16 bulbs is that most people tend to think they are all the same, and one can replace another unless one starts thinking about colored versions-then quite a few practical questions arise. Let's break it down in plain, everyday language and make sure you know

Can LEDs Save Me Money?

Switching to LED lighting can significantly reduce your energy bills and maintenance costs. This guide looks at how LEDs use less power, last longer than traditional bulbs, and help you save money over time—both at home and in commercial spaces.

Can LED Flood Lights replace metal halide/discharge flood lights?

Replacing metal halide or discharge flood lights with LED alternatives is a smart move for many homes and businesses. This guide explains how LED flood lights compare in brightness, energy efficiency, and lifespan, and what to consider when upgrading to ensure you get the best

Can I Touch The Glass On Halogen Light Bulbs when changing them?

Touching the glass of a halogen bulb may seem harmless, but it can actually shorten the life of the lamp and even cause it to fail. This guide explains why fingerprints matter, what can happen if you handle the glass directly, and how to change halogen bulbs safely to avoid damage.

Can I swap one brand of tube for another?

Swapping one brand of light tube for another might seem straightforward, but compatibility isn’t always guaranteed. This guide explains what you need to check—such as fitting type, wattage, and ballast compatibility—so you can replace your tube safely and avoid performance issues.

Can I swap my Halogen MR16 light bulbs for LED versions?

Switching from halogen MR16 bulbs to LED is a popular upgrade, but it’s not always as simple as swapping the lamp. This guide explains what you need to check—such as transformer compatibility, voltage type, and beam angle—so you can make the change safely and enjoy better

Can I swap my Compact Fluorescent Bulb for a higher/lower wattage?

Changing the wattage of a compact fluorescent bulb might seem like an easy way to adjust brightness, but it’s important to understand how CFLs work first. This guide explains whether you can safely use a higher or lower wattage bulb, how it affects light output and energy use, and

Can Daylight Tubes help with Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can make the darker months feel even more challenging, but bringing more natural light into your home can help. This article explores how daylight tubes work

Are LEDs Safe?

LED lights are generally safe to have around the environment. They're energy-efficient, they don't get as hot as the incandescent bulbs, also they don't contain toxins, such as mercury, that some of the fluorescent bulbs contain. But, again, like with a lot of new

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Do LED Strip Lights Dim Over Time?

LED strip lights don’t usually fail suddenly, but they can gradually lose brightness over time. This guide explains why LED strips dim, how long you can expect them to last, and what factors—like heat, power supply, and installation quality—affect their long-term performance.

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Is an LED Profile Waterproof?

Not all LED profiles are waterproof. It depends on the type of profile you’re using. Standard LED profiles are mainly designed for indoor use, where they protect the strip lights from dust and damage and provide a clean, finished look. However, if you’re installing LED lighting outdoors or

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Do You Need an LED Profile with an LED Strip

LED profiles aren’t always essential, but they can make a big difference to both the look and performance of your LED strip lighting. This guide explains when a profile is useful, how it helps with heat dissipation and light diffusion, and whether your installation really needs one.

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

What tools do I need to install LED Profiles?

You can simply insert LED profiles, but with some gear and a general notion of how it all comes together, it's not that hard and not going to destroy something. That's what you'll require and the way you can accomplish it. Tools and Things