Lighting advice
Incandescent lights
The common light bulb uses a tungsten filament to produce light. It produces a warm golden light that makes it most suitable for living areas.
Common incandescent bulbs last around 1000 hours, although you can increase that by fitting a dimmer in place of your light switch. When you dim before switching on, you reduce stress on the cold filament and prolong its life.
 back to top
Fluorescent lights
Fluorescents are now available both as tubes and compact bulbs that fit into standard globe fittings. Relatively more expensive, they offer a life of up to 7500 hours and up to six times the efficiency of incandescent bulbs, making them ideal for areas where light is required for a long period of time. Their glow is quite white and cool which also makes them ideal for 'practical' environments.
back to top
Tungsten halogen lamps
Made from crystal instead of glass, the halogen gas contained in these lamps extends the life of the tungsten filament to up to 2000 hours. Used in extra-low voltage (ELV) light fittings, halogen lamps are extremely compact and versatile, and particularly appropriate for feature lighting.
back to top
General lighting tips
- Inadequate lighting can lead to headaches, tension and eye discomfort so place your lighting where it will be most practical, as well as decorative.
- Outdoor security lights offer protection and convenience in outside areas.
- Use two-way switches at either end of large rooms, hallways and stairs to avoid walking around in the dark.
- Dimmer switches can change the level of ambience in a room and prolong the life of light globes.
- A combination of downlights and spotlights offers the versatility needed for a room with different uses.
back to top
|
