Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Don’t energy saving light bulbs give a harsh light?

This concern stemmed from the early days of CFL’s which could be a cold stark light, however the newer versions and the LED’s have overcome this problem by offering a better choice of light temperatures (Kelvin rating) Colour Temperature (Measured in Kelvin - K) . Harsh/Cold Light (High

Understanding MR16 Light Bulbs: Color, Types, and Compliance

MR16 light bulbs are commonly used in track lighting, recessed ceiling light fittings and display lighting. They can be identified via the two small pointed pins they have as their base. The Difference Between White, Black, and Silver Backed MR16 Light Bulbs Some MR16 bulbs will have a visible colour

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

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

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Is the COB LED Strip Waterproof?

Not all COB LED strips are waterproof. It depends on the the IP rating of the product. Many COB (Chip on Board) strips are designed for indoor use and come without any protective coating. These work perfectly for standard domestic or commercial use such as under cabinets, ceiling lighting, or

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Do COB Strip Lights need a diffuser?

COB strip lights are designed to deliver smooth, continuous light without the visible dots found on standard LED strips—but do they still need a diffuser? This guide explains when a diffuser is useful, how it affects light output and appearance, and how to choose the right setup for your space.

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

What is the Lifespan of a COB Strip Light?

COB LED strip lights are efficient and long-lasting if installed correctly. Its important to select the correct product when designing your installation, ensuring it has the correct IP rating and power source. How Long Do COB LED Strips Last? High-quality COB LED strip lights are designed for longevity, typically lasting

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Where can you cut a COB LED Strip?

You cannot pick a pair of scissors and cut a strip of COB LED wherever you want. The patterns of strips are designed using certain circuit patterns, and each part of such a pattern is intended. The possibility of cutting the circuit in the wrong spot can destroy the circuit

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

What are the disadvantages of COB LED strips?

COB is Chip on Board, and it's a technology in which numerous LED chips are closely mounted side by side to a single board. The layout provides a level, flat beam of light with no dots to see, a quality that normal SMD (Surface Mounted Diode) LED strips

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Which is better, LED strip or COB strip?

The decision to use an LED strip or COB strip is ultimately a choice of what type of lighting you are looking for. Let's discuss. Regular LED strips are made up of separate diodes spaced a few millimeters apart along a bendable strip. They're great for

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

How Do I Know Which LED Driver to Buy?

It is complicated to select the ideal LED driver if you know the basics. Consider the driver as the lifeblood of your LED system; it delivers the right power to your light source to keep it running efficiently. Select the wrong one, and you may find yourself with flickering, reduced

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Can I connect an LED strip directly to a 12V battery?

Connecting an LED strip to a 12V battery can be simple, but it depends on the type of strip you’re using. This guide explains when it’s safe to connect directly, what precautions you should take, and how to avoid common mistakes that can damage your LEDs or battery.

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Do I need an electrician to install LED strip lights?

Installing LED strip lights can be a simple DIY project in some cases, but not every setup is suitable for self-installation. This guide explains when you can safely fit LED strips yourself, when it’s best to call an electrician, and how to ensure your lighting is installed safely and correctly.

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Do LED Strips Draw a Lot of Power?

LED strip lights are known for being energy-efficient, but their power usage can vary depending on brightness, length, and type. This guide breaks down how much power LED strips typically consume, what affects their efficiency, and how to choose the right setup to keep energy costs low.

Frequently Asked Lighting Questions

Do you need a transformer for LED strip lights?

Most LED strip lights require a transformer or driver to convert mains power into the low voltage they need to operate safely. This guide explains when a transformer is necessary, how to choose the right one, and what can happen if your LED strips aren’t powered correctly.