LEDs are a common sight in UK homes but you may be wondering, what are the different types of LED bulbs available? To get started with LED lights it’s best to have a solid understanding of the different types available to choose from and their pros and cons.
Here at Vision Lighting, we sell a wide range of LED lights that can be used for a variety of applications. This article explores the different types of bulbs, LED lighting, and how to use them properly, as well as their many benefits.
A Guide to the Different Types of LEDs
LED lighting has a multitude of both practical and aesthetic applications that are guaranteed to offer you the solution you are looking for. What’s brilliant about the different types of LED bulbs is that they use very little energy, last a long time and, unlike regular energy-saving bulbs, they are instantly bright when switched on.
LED lighting emits light around 85% more efficiently than incandescent light products do. There are key types of LEDs, and this article provides a clear guide to each different type, exploring the benefits of each type and their uses, to help you decide which is best for you.
All of the different types of LEDs we explore in this article are sold right here at Vision Lighting.
1. LED Bulbs
So, what are the 3 types of LED light bulbs you’ll generally find available? Vision Lighting sells all three types, which we’ve given a deep dive below. Let’s get into them.
GU10
GU10 LED bulbs are one of the most popular types of LED bulbs. This is most likely because the bulb can be used in a range of applications, from your bedroom to commercial areas. These bulbs provide great efficiency and a long lifespan, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly lighting option.
Strengths: GU10 LED bulbs are durable and have a long lifespan, making them a safe and sensible choice. They are also energy efficient and can offer high-quality light to your space.
Limitations: They have quite a narrow beam angle, which makes them less useful for lighting up larger spaces.
The best way to use them: GU10 light bulbs are fantastic for task lighting applications such as reading or working on a computer.
GLS A60
These pear-shaped bulbs tend to have an Edison Screw or Bayonet cap base. They are one of the most popular light bulbs on the market. The GLS A60 is a cost-efficient choice for almost any home lighting project.
Strengths: They have an impressive lifespan of 50,000 hours, and are highly energy efficient, producing less waste light than other lighting solutions.
Limitations: Due to their circuitry, most A60 LED bulbs are incompatible with traditional dimming switches. This means that you might need to replace the switch if you want to be able to dim your bulb.
The best way to use them: This bulb is the perfect lighting solution for your normal, standard, regular-shaped lightbulb needs.
C35
C35 LED Filament Bulbs are ideal for home lighting available with an Edison Screw base. LED Filaments allow a retro look with lower running costs.
Strengths: This bulb offers an all-glass design, meaning that light can spread in all directions with a 320-degree beam angle.
Limitations: A C35 smart light bulb can save nearly 80% of energy compared to traditional bulbs, but this does mean that they appear dimmer.
The best way to use them: They are ideal for home lighting applications such as in chandeliers, preserving the traditional appearance with new LED Filament technology.
Whilst these are the most typical LED bulbs to find in the house, there are many more types of bulbs available that can be used for different fittings. For example in a kitchen, you may find GU10 bulbs inside some ceiling spotlights, but under the wall-mounted kitchen cabinets, there may be some light fittings that require G4 or G9 bulbs.
A GLS A60 bulb may well have an E27 (Edison) fitting, or B22 (Bayonet) fitting to suit different lamp holders.
2. LED Downlights
What are the types of LED lights you’ll see most commonly in domestic homes? The answer - downlights. An LED downlight is a light fixture that is installed in the ceiling and it’s a popular solution throughout many homes in the UK, and indeed worldwide.
Strengths: Downlights are popular because they have low power consumption, provide a practical design that takes up limited space, and offer an impressive life span.
Limitations: They need to be fitted a certain distance apart to prevent overheating. Downlights can produce lots of heat, increasing room temperatures which can make the room uncomfortable in hotter months.
The best way to use them: They are ideal for offering practical lighting for poorly lit areas. On top of this, they can offer mood lighting by easily adjusting the level of brightness and changing the light’s dimness.
What’s so special about Vision Lighting’s LEDs? A Whole Lot
As a leading lighting specialist for both domestic and commercial consumers, we pride ourselves on offering lighting that is durable, reliable and energy-efficient. With over a decade of experience in the lighting industry, our commitment to quality is unmatched.
Our friendly team is always happy to help with any queries you may have. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us at +44 01132 799745 or by email at info@vision-lighting.co.uk.
3. LED Ceiling Panels
LED ceiling panels offer maximum light output from grid ceilings without the need for complicated installation. You can reduce costs by using LED ceiling panels as they do not use as much energy.
Strengths: LED ceiling panels are instantaneous and will immediately reach the maximum light output. In addition, there are no filaments or fragile parts that need looking after and they can withstand vibration and sudden movements comfortably. They can also run for hours without overheating.
Limitations: LED panel lights cost more than incandescent or traditional bulbs. However, the initial cost is higher, so you should end up saving money in the longer term.
The best way to use them: LED panel lights for ceilings offer an energy-efficient alternative for offices, shops and other commercial spaces that want the perks of good lighting.
4. LED Strip Lights
The customisable nature of LED strip lights allows for the creation of creative lighting installations. This is because LED strip lights come in a variety of colour options, as well as a cool white and a warm white option.
Strengths: LED strip lights are sought after due to their versatility and immediate impact on a space. LEDs light up instantly, unlike many other lighting technologies.
Limitations: You need to ensure that you cut your LED strips along the specified cutting points to make sure that your lights function when they are needed.
The best way to use them: They can be placed in, for example, bedroom furniture such as your dressing table to aid visibility, or hidden in ceiling coving to give a room some dramatic lighting and ambience, or even in your kitchen as a smart lighting solution.
5. LED Wall Lights
LED wall lights are perfect outdoor home lighting solutions.
Strengths: Due to their illumination and range of designs, they can be installed pretty much anywhere and everywhere, including outside.
Limitations: Bear in mind that in tight spaces, the intensity of the bulb, and level of light, is greater and can make people strain their eyes, especially if they are reading, which can lead to discomfort.
The best way to use them: LED outdoor wall lights can be fitted above a door to provide a light source for people looking to find the entrance. Another way to use them could be to fit them above or below business signage so that your business logo is lit up on the wall.
6. T8 Tubes
T8 tubes are a more cost-effective alternative to fluorescent lights, coming in a choice of different lengths to best suit your needs.
Strengths: T8 tube lights are available in different lighting colour temperatures and a range of different sizes.
Limitations: The main issue with replacing T8 tubes is that they are hazardous waste.
The best way to use them: Great for office lighting and warehouse applications, their design makes them ideal to light up places that have high ceilings.
7. Floodlights
LED floodlights are an ideal security solution, keeping your commercial property safe for long periods whilst people are off-site.
Strengths: Floodlights offer outstanding performance, and varying features, and can be used for a variety of applications.
Limitations: The design is limited to precise control over the direction of light. This makes them less suitable for detailed accent lighting.
The best way to use them: They tend to be used to illuminate large outdoor spaces. They are usually found installed on the exterior of pubs, restaurants, hotels or billboards.
8. LED Modules
LED modules and bars are great for a range of signage applications.
Strengths: They can be installed in hard-to-reach areas, they are flexible and offer strong fixture efficacy.
Limitations: They tend to have a high flux density, meaning that the concentrated light sources can create glare.
The best way to use them: LED modules keep your business signage, opening hours and company logo illuminated to your desired level at all times of the day.
9. LED Sign Lights
LED sign lights offer great value for money and are a great investment that is going to be able to light your shop front, business sign, or business details, for years to come with barely any maintenance.
Strengths: Trough lights, particularly Nanolights, are extremely resistant to the elements and can withstand the worst hailstorm, wind, and rain with no fluctuation in the amount of light that is emitted.
Limitations: The main limitation could be the initial upfront cost, but this should be cost-effective in the long run.
The best way to use them: LED sign lights that are unique and offer companies the brightness and clear projection needed to illuminate their business signage.
From Eye-Catching Sign Lighting to Ambient Wall Lights - Vision Lighting Has LEDs for Anywhere
At Vision Lighting, we have over a decade of experience in the lighting industry, specialising in LED lights for use in both domestic and commercial lighting applications. LEDs have long been becoming the most popular lighting solution for homes and businesses all over the world - and for good reason.
LEDs can have multiple benefits and it all depends on your particular requirements. All of our different types of LED bulbs are durable, reputable and energy-efficient, making them ideal for all of your lighting needs.
Please reach out for our professional advice and assistance if you have any queries regarding our LED lighting.
Plus All the Accessories You Need for Perfect Mounting
On top of the best lighting solutions, Vision Lighting has all the accessories necessary for your lighting needs, including brackets, cables and adhesive tape.