LED conversion – how much will I save?

Posted on 26th January 201526th September 2022 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 26th September 2022

Lighting constitutes an incredible 20% of worldwide energy consumption, so it likely also accounts for a large part of your business’s electricity costs – and with energy costs rising, most homes and businesses are looking for ways to make savings. While spending money investing in an LED conversion (switching your existing light bulbs to LED bulbs) may seem like you’re spending money unnecessarily, but you’ll end up making huge savings and doing better for the planet at the same time. Let’s take a look at the other advantages of converting to LED lighting.

Advantages of LED conversion

LED lighting products have been intensely developed over the past few decades, with lighting designers exploiting the flexibility they offer, and they’ve steadily decreased in price too. The lower cost and enhanced look of LED lighting solutions isn’t the only advantage that converting offers.

Energy-efficiency – LED technology is extremely energy efficient, using up to 90% less energy than incandescent lighting (including halogen styles that have now been banned) and 60% less than old fluorescent lighting.
Lifespan – LED light bulbs last up to 50 times longer than a traditional light bulb, so you spend far less time and money in maintenance and can reduce your stock of spare light bulbs.
Temperature – Because LED lighting projects little or no IR heat in its beam, converting to LED reduces fire risk and potentially, air conditioning costs too. LED spotlights can be useful for lighting heat-sensitive items such as works of art, or food.
Durability – LED lighting is resistant to shock and vibration and performs reliably at cold temperatures (typically down to -20°C), making it a logical choice for outdoor lighting.
Environment- In addition to lower energy consumption, LED lighting has a lower environmental impact too – most LEDs can be recycled at the correct facilities, but more importantly, no mercury is used, so if the bulb or unit is disposed of with regular waste, it won’t contaminate landfill sites.
Battery – Due to the smaller amount of power required, LEDs are suitable for emergency lighting and solar styles.
Adaptability – Many LED lights, particularly smart models, provide greater flexibility than traditional types, with the ability to change the colour temperature (perfect for office spaces where cool white is better in the morning and warm white in the afternoon or evening) as well as the brightness of the light.

How much can I save by converting to LED?

Great question – and the answer is one you’ll like! The combination of longer lifespan and lower energy consumption guarantees a return on investment, whether you’re talking one bulb or a thousand.

Switching to LED bulbs saves money in the home – the Energy Saving Trust estimates around £13 per year per 100 watt incandescent bulb replaced – which adds up to a significant saving throughout the home. In a business, where lighting is kept on for longer hours and bulb changes have typically been much more frequent, an LED conversion can save thousands of pounds per year.

Making the change to LEDs has the potential to save your business thousands of pounds, and even a 20% reduction in your energy costs could provide the same benefit as a 5% increase in sales.

LED conversion case study

To give you an idea of how much you can save, here’s an example scenario calculating the benefits of an LED conversion. In this example, the bulbs are installed in a stairwell, and are switched on permanently, 24 hours a day.

Pre-conversion costs

Based on 20p per Kw/H for non domestic use as published by the Government Statistical Data June 2022

Post conversion running costs

Based on 20p per Kw/H for non domestic use as published by the Government Statistical Data June 2022

As you can see, annual running costs are reduced by £19,053 per year. Even with the increased cost of the bulbs, there are still overall savings in excess of £11,000 to be made – think of what else you could spend those thousands on!

Having made a strong case for conversion based on running costs, the only objection left is that of the initial outlay to buy the replacements. But the cost of LED bulbs and lights has reduced and is now comparable with traditional incandescent bulbs.

Lighting controls such as smart lighting with Wi-Fi connectivity, dimmers, motion sensors and timers can substantially reduce energy costs and when you’re tackling an LED conversion, this is a great time to install these. These controls also increase bulb lifespan, further reducing maintenance costs.

LED conversion conclusion

The upfront cost of tackling an LED conversion shouldn’t be one that deters businesses from making the switch, since LED lighting offers a large number of benefits. A substantial reduction in energy bills is the main reason to change to LEDs, but the reduction in maintenance costs can also be significant, depending on the size and nature of the building – and allows your maintenance team to work more efficiently too.

Reducing the carbon footprint of your business by switching to LED is a worthwhile endeavour, and as part of wider efforts to support the environment, is an initiative that customers will appreciate – and since halogen lights have now been banned in the UK, replacing existing bulbs with LEDs just makes sense.

An LED conversion can be achieved with very little disruption to your business. Lyco Direct have helped some of the UK’s biggest companies convert to LED. For larger projects, we offer flexible finance schemes that allow you to offset payment with energy savings.

If you’d like free expert advice on converting your business’s lighting to LED, please give us a call on 0345 646 1133 or send us an email and we’ll be happy to help.

Feeling inspired? Browse our full range of LED bulbs and LED lighting.

Looking for more information on lighting? Visit our Lighting Advice page.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Andrew is an experienced buying professional who takes an entrepreneurial approach to identify new lighting solutions and ensure Lyco have first-to-market ranges for our customers. Having previously worked for well known brands such as Wickes, Carphone Warehouse and Toys R Us, Andrew has now turned his hand to sourcing commercial lighting and ensure our customers receive top brand quality products at marketing leading prices. He manages a team of commercial and decorative buyers who travel the world finding new products that our customers don’t even know they need yet.

Lamp Shades And Light Distribution

Posted on 12th November 201427th January 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 27th January 2023

A lamp shade plays the crucial role in controlling light. It diffuses and directs. It’s easy to choose a light fitting based purely on looks and style, but if you study the shade and envisage the effect it will have, you’ll be able to plan your lighting scheme more effectively. This article explores some of the possibilities.

A Few Things To Consider

Colour And Form

The colour of a shade and its interior lining (if any) directly affects the hue and strength of light. For instance, the black drum shade of the Zaragoza 3 Light Table Lamp allows a glow of warm outward light while emitting stronger up-and-down light through its glass diffusers. This is a good choice of mood lighting. Paler and thinner materials (e.g. paper) naturally allow more light to pass.

We can conveniently see the effect of darker versus lighter shades in the attractive Soprana Cone Cluster Pendant. Note the extra warm hue of the black shade once the light is switched on.

A sloping ‘coolie’ shade is common in table and floor lamps and forces much of its light downwards. The Tyso Floor Lamp is an example. This shape is useful for lighting tasks such as reading or writing, while also contributing ambient light to the room.

Dome-shaped solid fittings such as the Cone Pendant act like reflector bulbs. The metallic interior of the shade gathers up light and projects it downwards. Sometimes a golden interior is used, which warms the colour of the light before propelling it out. This style of shade is often used in multiples and suspended low over a table or desk (more about that in a while).

An uplighter like the beautiful Art Nouveau Tiffany Style Dragonfly Floor Lamp usually has a bowl or saucer-shaped shade and allows a limited downward flow of light. It bounces most of its light directly off upper walls and ceilings, dispersing it over a wider area.

Lighting Patterns

Some lamp shades filter an enchanting pattern of light onto nearby surfaces. Graypants’ series of cardboard Scraplights, for instance, cast lighting patterns onto walls through the corrugated surface of their shades.

Suspension Height

Most ceiling lights are height-adjustable at the point of installation. This is useful for taller people, as it avoids them constantly clunking their head on the shade. If the shade is hung over a table, adjustable height offers further possibilities. As the shade is moved closer to a surface, it creates a more intense pool of light in an ever-narrower beam. The benefit of this is great in a dining room or restaurant, where the focused light creates a feeling of personal space and intimacy. A fitting that is perfect for low suspension is the stunning Edit Globe Glass Pendant, which looks amazing as a single luminaire or in multiples over an elongated table.

Rise And Fall Pendants

As mentioned, most ceiling lights require you to decide their suspension height at the time of installation. This is not the case with a ‘rise and fall’ pendant, which uses an early 20th century French design. The Rise-and-Fall Pendant, allows you to adjust its shade height after installation using a pulley. You can set it high up for general illumination or lower for more defined light and extra mood. These fittings are a superb choice for dining tables or kitchen islands.

Matching Shades With Bulbs

Some shades work well with specific types of bulb. The smoked glass Task Shade is complemented by the attractive form of a LED Decorative Filament Bulb, which can be seen easily through the shade.

Choosing Shades

To summarise, remember to consider the colour, material, and shape of a shade when shopping, and then enjoy the benefits of good lighting.

For more useful information see our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Reception lighting – first impressions count

Posted on 26th September 201429th March 2022 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th March 2022

Endon Phantom 7 Light Chandelier - Polished Chrome

For businesses big and small, first impressions count. Whether you’re looking to impress clients or the public, the reception area provides the first opportunity.

Some thought should be given to lighting when planning a reception. Harsh, bright lights make visitors feel uncomfortable and unwelcome, whereas poor or dim lighting projects lack of care or success. The right lighting will bring the best out of furniture and furnishings and create an agreeable ambience.

Reception lighting for small businesses and hotels

Smaller businesses or hotels may be limited in floor space, but even small reception areas can make a big impression with the right lighting. The main risk is the danger of overdoing it: large, ostentatious light fittings may hint at a healthy balance sheet, but they will overpower a small reception area and everything in it.

The ideal reception lighting for a small business reflects the strengths it has to offer (usually intimacy and personal attention), but will also be smart enough to make it look an efficient, conscientious business. Let’s look at examples from Lyco’s wide range of reception lighting options for small businesses.

Small hotel reception lighting

Pendant Lights

The beautiful pendant adds a touch of traditional elegance to any reception area, with many to choose from it’s important to work out what will suit decor and represent your brand values at the same time. Most pendants are height adjustable to suit any ceiling height.

Ceramic Wall Lights

Wall lighting is useful for filling bare areas of wall and creating a welcoming ambience. It also acts as a secondary source of illumination, with diffuse light bouncing off nearby surfaces. The ceramic wall light can be left bare or painted to suit surroundings.

Small office reception lighting

Gold & Copper Pendants

If you want a funky, modern reception idea that makes an impression, a gold or copper pendant give you exactly that. The stylish, contemporary range is eye catching and on trend. Choose a Decorative Filament Light Bulb to add the perfect finishing touch with head-turning looks.

Edit Wall Light

The uncomplicated simplicity of the Edit wall light makes it a versatile all-rounder that will suit most small office reception areas. It uses 40W small screw bulb, and the white plaster finish will complement most offices.

Reception lighting for large businesses and hotels

The larger your reception area, the greater the canvas is to create a lasting impression. You could use discreet wall fittings for added mood. Make the most of high ceilings by installing an eye-catching chandelier or decorative pendant.

As with small businesses, upgrading the existing lighting in a large business’s reception area can have a dramatic visual impact without you having to change anything else. It offers an affordable upgrade option. Let’s look at some ideas:

Large hotel reception lighting

Zaragoza 3 Light Pendant

This striking ceiling light creates a favourable first impression in any reception area with its classy black-ridged fabric shade and attractive polished chrome fixings. An opal glass diffuser ensures a smooth spread of downward light from this large pendant, which comes in a choice of colours and can be easily co-ordinated with other items in the same stylish range.

Phantom 7 Light Pendant

There’s nothing like a striking centrepiece light to make an immediate impact in any reception area. With its mix of polished chrome and white fabric, the height-adjustable Phantom 7 light fitting adds a touch of class wherever it’s installed. To complete a great first impression, there are also co-ordinated wall lights available.

Head office reception lighting

Lucide Talowe LED Pendant

The Edit Wyndham LED Pendant is a large aluminium statement light with white painted shade and adjustable height. With cool white integrated LEDs, it is both energy saving and contemporary. It also emits 2340 lumens of light, so it’s perfect for reception area atmosphere lighting.

Table Lamps

Add a Table Lamp to create a more homely feel to an area. With many finishes to choose from our extensive range, you are sure to find something to suit your decor.

Save money by switching to LED

Switching from inefficient lighting to retrofit LED light bulbs has a dramatic impact on any business’s lighting costs. Depending on the size of business, annual savings may extend into tens of thousands of pounds. An LED bulb uses 80 to 90% less energy than a filament bulb and it’s also exceptionally long lasting. Running and maintenance costs are drastically reduced.

As inefficient lighting technologies are gradually phased out LED light bulbs are becoming increasingly common. They are now available at a wide range of price points, including many at under £10. By choosing LED for a reception and any other area of your business, a return on investment is guaranteed.

For more advice, inspiration and news take a look at our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Outdoor lights for staff safety

Posted on 15th September 201427th January 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 27th January 2023

Lighting affects our working lives in several ways. It has a major effect on our health and mental welfare and may protect life and limb in dangerous manual jobs. At either end of a working day employees enter or leave a workplace. It’s essential they’re able to do this without risk of accident or physical threat. Outdoor lights for staff safety deserve close attention. This article points you towards specific products to help keep employees safe.

Outdoor car parks

European Standard 12464-2 gives useful advice on car park lighting. It recommends surface illuminance of at least 5 lux for car parks with low traffic and 20 lux for busy parking zones. The size of the car park will influence your lighting choice. A light mounted high up covers more ground and avoids glare, but it needs to emit more light to maintain intensity. The distance covered by a floodlight is roughly twice its mounting height.

The Dextra 400W Metal Halide Floodlight suits a high mounting position. This fitting produces far more light than a 400W halogen equivalent. Good-quality colour rendering makes car recognition easier and aids crime detection. Our choice of metal halide floodlights caters for many applications.

For large areas of lighting, there is the Dextra 400W SON Floodlight. This floodlight is energy efficient and throws out even more light than the 400W metal halide lamp, but its colour rendering is poorer. Nonetheless, it allows some colour recognition and is suitable for many outdoor purposes.

Covered car parks

Covered car parks have different lighting needs to open parking spaces. They are trickier to navigate, and their hemmed-in nature causes a sense of unease if poorly lit. The psychological effect of lighting is important; staff should feel safe as well as being as safe as possible. Suggested lux levels are 75 lux for driving lanes, entrances, exits and parking bays; a minimum 100 lux for pedestrian areas; and 150 lux for ramps, corners, and junctions.

A good choice for covered car parks is the Eterna IP65 T8 Weatherproof Fluorescent Batten. This inexpensive light source is dust-tight and resistant to jets of water. LED substitutes for fluorescent tubes last longer and are 30-40% more energy efficient. The Robus Vulcan LED Batten is an example. These lights are ideal for tunnels or sheltered paths, too.

Paths

Paths need good lighting for the safety and security of staff. An illuminance level of between 5 and 20 lux is recommended. The Eterna Outdoor Wall Light includes a photocell to trigger light at dusk and is suitable for a path alongside a building. The eye-lid design helps to reduce glare and protect visibility.

Any obstacle or change of direction along a path demands good lighting. Adequate corner lighting helps prevent accidents. The Eterna Well Corner Light comes with a special mount to allow this. It is wise to keep building extremities amply lit for reasons of personal security, especially when publicly accessible.

For brick buildings, a discreet way of lighting adjoining paths is with brick lights such as the JCC Fresco Low Energy Brick Light. This ensures enough lighting at ground level while also cutting out glare.

Post lights such as the modern Edit Detroit LED Post allow safe passage along isolated paths. Floodlights are useful for lighting large outside spaces and provide a safe environment for all employees and visitors.

Bike sheds

Fluorescent tubes are fine in bike sheds, but the Eterna 11W IP65 LED Bulkhead also satisfies. This compact fitting has a built-in photocell to trigger light automatically at dusk.

Security Camera

Security cameras deters criminals by capturing, relaying and saving video footage. You can remotely access cameras through a computer, tablet or smartphone. Lyco sells a wide range of security camera to keep your business and employees safe.

Lux measurement

Lux is a unit of illumination equal to one lumen of light spread evenly over a 1m² surface. It measures light intensity at the surface plane. As the distance of a lamp increases, so does the surface area that it lights, while light intensity (lux) decreases.

There are various light calculators available on the Internet, but a lux meter offers a cheap and reliable means of ensuring sufficient light for any application inside or outside a workplace.

Further info

For advice on related topics, please look at our security lighting feature. Our outdoor light buying guide may also be helpful.

For more useful information and advice please take a look at our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Security lighting – protect your premises

Posted on 1st September 201419th October 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 19th October 2023

Whether you’re safeguarding a home or a business premises, security lighting is one of the more effective measures you’ll take against unwanted visitors. Before investing in security, try briefly adopting a criminal mindset so you can identify vulnerable parts of your building. Look for easy areas of concealment near doors and windows and trim any trees or shrubs that offer a natural hiding place or obscure vision.

As well as good security lighting, consider installing alarms, full security systems, CCTV, perimeter fencing and warning signs. Ensure your locks are sturdy. Sliding glass doors are a common unlawful entry point into homes. To counteract this, they can be fitted with dowel rods, security sensors, and shatter alarms. Screws and washers are sometimes inserted to prevent such doors being hoisted from their frame.

Lyco stocks various products to help thwart intruders and vandals, but we’ll primarily discuss security lighting.

Sensors

There are two types of sensor typically used in outdoor security lights: PIR sensor and photocell (commonly called a dusk-to-dawn sensor).

The PIR sensor is essentially a motion sensor that detects changes in IR radiation. Any movement within a given range triggers light for a short, often adjustable duration.

A photocell measures ambient light levels and triggers light on and off at dusk and dawn, respectively. This creates the impression that a property may be occupied, acting as a useful deterrent.

Light technologies

All lighting technologies have particular advantages and disadvantages, which may affect your buying decision when choosing security lights. Here are some of the relevant factors:

Low-energy fluorescent lights are rarely used with PIR sensors because of their warm-up time, but this is less of an issue with dusk-to-dawn light sensors, where immediate bright light isn’t necessary. The ASD Horizon Bulkhead offers automatically tripped overnight lighting using an economical 2D fluorescent lamp.
LED lighting offers numerous advantages outdoors, including reliable low-temperature performance, immediate full-power light (useful with PIR sensors), resistance to shock or vibration, and a naturally directional output that reduces light pollution. The Selene Solar Spotlights, for instance, can light an area at a distance of 20 metres with minimal light wasted outside of the spotlight beam.
Sodium lamps are often used in security lighting. They offer incredible energy efficiency, though colour rendering is relatively poor. A SON lamp allows some identification of colour, while a SOX lamp produces a monochromatic light that forfeits colour but heightens human perception of contrast. The Dextra 400W SON Floodlight with Photocell lights very large outdoor areas with a performance that may easily exceed 120 lumens per watt. It is ideal for industrial areas, building perimeters and car parks.

Home security lights

Security lights for the home needn’t be expensive, either to buy or run. The Edit Coastal Sennen Wall Lantern is available with or without a PIR sensor. A PIR light is useful for legitimate entry into a home as well as deterring intruders, and it saves the expense of running a permanently switched fitting.

The Nemi Globe Wall Light uses a photocell to automatically light the outside of any home overnight and switch itself off in the morning. This fitting is IP44 rated, which is a good all-round specification for rain proofing and resistance to dust.

Lighting doesn’t get any cheaper to run than when it’s solar-powered, with LED development opening up a whole new market in this area. LEDs are a low-voltage light source, so they feed very efficiently off a solar-charged battery and need remarkably little power. The Evo15 Solar PIR Utility Light is a security light that is free to run and can be discreetly installed outside the home.

Business security lights

Though there aren’t any strict definitions, business security lights will often be plainer in design and stronger in output — different to residential lights in ways you’d expect. The ESP Nighthawk LED Security Floodlight with built-in PIR sensor is a robust example.

This 12W luminaire has a 10-metre, 160° range and projects a powerful 1100 lumens of light. Its Nichia LEDs have a mighty 91 lumens-per-watt output, which makes the manual override facility all the more attractive; this is an economical floodlight for general use, too. Nighthawk floodlights can be configured in a slave system, where multiple fittings are triggered by one PIR sensor or photocell.

Also from ESP is the Guard-Cam Security Floodlight, which not only lights up intruders with a powerful halogen lamp, but also records them with video or still images. An audio mode allows playback of a pre-recorded warning to say “you are being recorded by a security camera” and also has a barking dog option. You can even record your own politely phrased messages.

Security Camera

The presence of cameras is enough to dissuade most opportunist intruders from committing crime and gives any property owner peace of mind. Lyco sells a wide range of security cameras, including ESP Guardcam LED Security Floodlight with Camera. Infrared cameras are often used, which project invisible IR light to effectively see in the dark as well as functioning normally during the day.

Our CCTV security systems can be remotely monitored from PCs, tablets, or smartphones, with special apps available for iPhones or Android phones. Email alerts can also be set up, so you’ll immediately know if the security system has been set off.

Entry systems and locks

To supplement any security lighting or CCTV measures, Lyco offers a range of door entry systems, door locks, and bolts and padlocks. These help protect your property during normal hours of business as well as overnight.

A false sense of security

Most of us are guilty of occasionally leaving windows open, not bothering to switch on alarms, or concealing keys in obvious places. Contrary to the popular saying, criminals rarely return to the scene of the crime. Avoid making their job easy the first time round.

Take a look at our full security lighting range.

Looking for more news, inspiration and advice? Try our Lighting Advice section

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Introducing Eutrac 3 circuit track lighting

Posted on 31st July 201429th July 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th July 2021

The beauty of all track lighting lies in the ability to freely position lights without wiring constraints. This is useful for changeable applications such as galleries, exhibitions and retail displays. With most track lighting, any dimming or switching control has to be applied universally. All lights are run on a single circuit, so you dim them all at the same time and you switch them all on and off at the same time. So what is 3 circuit track lighting?

Triple your display lighting options

A 3 circuit track piece integrates three live copper conductors, running along its entire length. These conductors allow three lighting circuits to be individually switched or dimmed in the same installation. When you add a light fitting to the track or want to change its role, you assign it to one of the three circuits by means of a dial. This dynamic system allows unlimited fine-tuning of light, which is a great asset in any professional display environment. Click the infographic below to see how it can be used in a retail environment…

Lyco are now pleased to offer the Eutrac 3 circuit track lighting system to their customers. A wide variety of modular components are available for this system, all in a choice of white or silver-grey finish. These include:

Light heads

The Bima 1 GU10 Spotlight Head takes either halogen or LED GU10 lamps and is especially notable for its versatile 340° rotation and 200° tilting adjustability. This fitting is suitable for smaller professional display spaces as well as hospitality or residential applications.
Similar to the Bima is the Puri GU10 Spotlight, which offers outstanding value for money. The 85° tilting adjustment is more restrictive than that of the Bima, however, which accounts for its lower price. The Bima and the Puri are both available in twin-headed versions.

For larger professional display environments or sizeable commercial or hospitality venues, the Euro Spot 35W Track Light Head provides an answer. Its relatively low maximum wattage is indicative of the energy efficient metal halide lamp it takes, which produces a phenomenal amount of bright white light. For exceptional colour rendering, a ceramic metal halide lamp is recommended.

Another powerful light head for the Eutrac system is the E27 Spot Track Head. As its name suggests, this takes regular E27 Edison Screw bulbs. PAR lamps are the light source of choice here, with a maximum wattage of 70W. Note that light output is likely to be less than the Euro Spot, but more than the GU10 fittings. Unlike the Euro Spot, the beam angle in this fitting is dictated by your choice of lamp output.

An unusual but useful option for the Eutrac system is the Forchini M 3 Circuit Track Pendant. This is great for providing ambient lighting and is especially useful where a relaxing mood is desirable. The gold interior of the pendant emphasises a warm output of light, which is ideal for hospitality or residential applications, or specific retail settings such as fashion or home furnishing shops.

Track

Eutrac track pieces are available in 1m and 2m lengths, which can be cut to size for a bespoke lighting scheme. An expansive amount of track can be used, but the maximum load cannot exceed 3,840 watts.

The illustration below shows a piece of Eutrac triple-phase track. It includes an extruded aluminium profile and two PVC supporter profiles with embedded 2.5 mm² cross section copper conductors. This design provides three independently switchable circuits with an earth connection through the aluminium profile.

Putting it all together

So far we’ve looked at triple-phase light heads and track pieces, but how is this 3 circuit system powered and pieced together? The Eutrac 3 Circuit Feed In delivers power to the track lighting system. Note that the position of the earth conductor must be aligned throughout the installation, so connecting pieces are all offered in a choice of left or right earth, or inside and outside in the case of angled connectors.

Our diverse selection of triple-phase track connectors allows any shape of installation you need. Included among them are straight connectors, cross- or X-shaped, flexible, T-shaped, and finally L-shaped for 90° corners. The connectors all have feed-in capability, allowing power supply at any junction.

The cheapest Eutrac component of all is the non-electric 3 Circuit End Cap, which gives a tidy finish to any linear track lighting installation.

Kits – easy openers

The Eutrac 3 circuit track lighting system is particularly useful for large display or task lighting installations, where a single circuit track installation may become unwieldy and cause compromise. Smaller track installations are achievable with convenient Eutrac 3 light kits, which still allow individual switching control over the included lights if required. The kits can be easily expanded using the aforementioned lights and accessories.

Why not browse our Eutrac range in full.

Looking for more advice or inspiration? Try our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Uplighting: beam it up for extra effect

Posted on 24th July 201427th January 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 27th January 2023

If you’re wondering exactly what “uplighting” refers to, your first guess is right. It’s a commonly used term for any lighting purposefully directed upwards. Light fittings specifically designed for this are predictably known as uplighters or uplights. But what’s the point of this lighting technique?

Creating drama

There are a couple of reasons for deliberately throwing light upward. Primarily, uplights are used to create drama. In this role, the light is positioned on the floor or ground and the light is directed up at an acute angle to glance off a wall, or a fence, or perhaps a statue or tree – this method is used indoors and out.

One thing sharply angled light does is emphasise texture; many objects that look flat in regular light take on a dramatic appearance under acute illumination, with their surface detail revealed. This technique also brings out form. A single light source or an asymmetrical pair of lights shone from beneath (and other angles) provides “modelling”, where light and shade outlines the shape of any item.

It is occasionally said that uplighting looks dramatic because our natural expectation is for light to come from above. A more established fact is that areas of light and dark create atmosphere. Because uplights are often set against subdued background lighting, or even darkness, they are always a fantastic choice for creating ambience.

Reflecting light

Another reason for pointing indoor or sheltered luminaires upward is to bounce light off upper wall areas and ceilings. This has the effect of widely dispersing a smooth light that is completely free of glare. Effectively it turns the ceiling into the light source, and a larger light source creates softer, more flattering illumination.

Light fittings used in this fashion might include floor lamps, concealed fluorescent fittings, and spotlights. The spread of light always depends to some extend on the nearness of the light source to the ceiling, its beam angle, and the light’s angle of incidence as it strikes the surface.

Indoor uplighting

Indoor uplighting works in either of the roles previously discussed. Lighting for drama nearly always means placing a light fitting on the floor. Light that is reflected off a ceiling is usually either wall-mounted or a freestanding lamp. Here are some examples:

The Limina Plaster Uplighter is an attractive luminaire for a hospitality setting or home. Set against subdued background lighting it dramatically lights architectural features, wall-mounted art, sculpture, or houseplants. As a cabled fitting, it serves as a floor or table lamp.

The Mother & Child Floor Lamp directs a phenomenal amount of light towards the ceiling using a powerful LED bulb, which is dimmable for fine-tuned effect. This type of luminaire provides a lot of coverage with its big throw of omnidirectional light, which is further dispersed by nearby surfaces.

A fitting such as the Spot 79 Spotlight might fulfil a similar role to the Opus. By mounting it on a wall and aiming its light upwards, the problem of glare is avoided and a wide spread of light is achieved. Spotlights are often overlooked for this purpose, but they provide good coverage for confined areas while taking up minimal space.

Outdoor uplighting

Most of us have probably noticed outdoor uplighting being used whilst on our travels, perhaps to dramatically illuminate a great cathedral at night. Architectural lighting is one way it is used, which will typically involve a powerful ground-fixed floodlight in outdoor situations.

The Edit Arris Wall Light is usable either as an outdoor uplight or downlight and is ideal for any modern premises. It is intended for decorative purposes, so how you install it falls to personal choice and may be influenced by existing lights or features.

Drama is usually the motive when using uplighting outside. Popular targets for outdoor uplighting include trees and shrubs, statues, gazebos, fences, trellises, and garden walls. The same principle applies: uplighting gives these subjects texture and form and creates visual interest.

For shrubs, smaller trees, and many other garden items, the Garden Spotlights are ideal, they can be aimed directly upward to accentuate shape. A stronger alternative to Garden Spotlights is the High Power LED Ground Light, which are great option for lighting up large trees or an alternative to wall uplighters.

Water features such as fountains or ponds are often lit from beneath, or within, not least to avoid the peril of surface glare. Here, a product like the set of Garland SMD LED Walkover Lights works well. These provide decorative uplighting, and with their IP68 rating they can be immersed to a depth of 1 metre.

Become a lighting drama queen (or king)

We hope this article has provided you with ideas on how to create drama and mood with uplighting. It may have opened your eyes to how you can use existing surfaces to disperse light and avoid glare. Become a drama queen with your choice of lamps and light fittings!

Browse our full range of wall uplighters

Browse our full range of floor uplighters

For more inspiration and advice take a look at our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

LED replacement bulbs and their uses

Posted on 25th June 201429th March 2022 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th March 2022

When your existing bulbs expire it is now generally recommended that you invest in LED replacement bulbs. This is because they offer numerous benefits, the more attractive of which are vastly reduced energy consumption and lifespans that sometimes extend into decades.

In this article we look at thirteen different types of LED retrofit bulb: a baker’s dozen that should save you some serious dough. We also note areas where LED replacements may cause problems.

Types of LED replacement bulb

LED Candle Bulbs are tricky for designers because the bulbs they replace were often intended for show. The clear incandescent candle was used with chandeliers and other decorative fittings and admired for its scintillating light. Clear LED candles are ornamented for this reason, with silver or ivory-effect bodies and, in some cases, special lenses.

LED GU10s need attention when installed in confined light fittings, with some manufacturers warning of reduced lifespan in this type of application. GU10s are also used with track lights, bar lights, wall lights and outdoor spotlights. Some use COB LEDs, which are densely packed LED chips that produce an exceptionally even light. Typically a COB LED is wide beamed and recessed into the lamp for an authentic halogen reflector effect (most LED spotlights are reflectors only by name).

LED GLS Bulbs replace the everyday pear-shaped bulbs we all know. Many have an opal finish, which conceals unappealing LED chips but also helps to smoothly disperse light. Manufacturers like Crompton and Megaman go to some trouble to replicate the look and feel of incandescent bulbs.

LED Golf Balls and Globes are usually meant to be seen. Golf balls in particular are used with a clear glass finish in chandeliers and decorative pendants, so manufacturers try to make LED retrofits look attractive. Some golf balls and most globes have a translucent finish, which produces less sparkle but is good for soft, flattering light.

LED Low Voltage Spotlights are natural replacements for dichroic cool-beam 12V halogen spotlights, since they don’t project IR heat. One thing to note about all LED spotlights is their available choice of colour temperatures, which is impossible in halogen lamps. You can use this to accentuate different colours in display items. The little MR11 comes in LED form, as does the popular MR16.

LED Double D Bulbs offer savings of up to 60% over their fluorescent equivalents, whilst also boosting lifespan. Lesser known LED advantages include zero warm-up time, superior cold temperature performance, negligible UV output, shock-proof, vibration-proof and no mercury content. Many of these characteristics are beneficial for the type of use these lamps will see.

LED PAR Reflectors are used in a diverse range of applications, from swimming pool lighting to retail display or task lighting. Far more energy efficient and longer lasting than filament rivals, the wide choice of form and colour in these lamps makes creative lighting easy.

LED AR111 Reflectors replace halogen equivalents, which are often used in retail display lighting and domestic fittings. You’ll see a variety of designs, including the Edit 12W LED COB ES111, which emulates halogen lighting with its sunken COB LED module. Note that the ES111 is a mains-powered version of the AR111. Lyco sells a selection of both.

LED T8 Tubes are a replacement for the popular T8 fluorescent tube, which itself replaced the phased-out T12. Our LED tubes use 40-60% less energy than fluorescent rivals, whilst also outlasting them. In some cases LED tubes are rotatable for precise illumination, which avoids wasted light. Other benefits include zero warm-up time, no mercury content and little or no UV output to attract insects or fade artworks and fabrics.

LED Capsules are useful for everyday applications like desk lamps and wardrobe lights. They tend to be bulkier than halogen equivalents, so the size of the lamp housing should be checked before purchase. High-powered halogen capsules for specialist projector and theatre applications are not replaceable by LED.

LED Colour Lights are great for enlivening retail displays, social events, and swimming pools.

LED Double Ended Linear bulbs replace the powerful elongated halogen bulbs often used in floodlighting applications. Bulkier than the bulbs they replace, these offer astounding levels of luminous efficacy and are vastly more energy-efficient.

LED Pin Fittings replace non-ballasted CFLs, saving about 50% in energy costs. You’ll typically have to bypass or remove the ballast from a fluorescent fitting during installation. Like LED tubes, one way these lamps save energy is by not wasting light. For example, the Goodlight 8W LED allows 180° of adjustment for perfectly aimed illumination. Note that most of our LED pin fittings are non-dimmable, which may affect a decision when replacing 4-pin CFLs.

Watts versus lumens

One cause of confusion when switching to LED lighting is the abrupt uselessness of watts as a means of comparison. You can use “equivalent watts” as a guide to replacing incandescent bulbs, but you can’t use watts to compare LED products.

Lyco encourages use of lumens as a measurement of light output. Lumens measure the total amount of light produced, regardless of direction, whereas candelas measure light intensity in a specific direction. The second are more relevant to spotlights.

Can you replace any bulb with an LED?

Not quite, is the answer. The compact size of LEDs allows them to replace most bulbs, but there are three particular areas you need to be aware where issues can arise:

Light Direction

LED’s naturally directional light isn’t always ideal. To emulate omnidirectional bulbs, LED chips are usually mounted in relatively stout 360° configurations, which is only a problem when replacing skinny light sources like halogen capsules or linear lamps. LED versions of these products are normally broader, and some specialist types are not reproduced.

Heat dissipation

Heat dissipation needs in LED bulbs are significant. If you install a retrofit LED bulb into a confined and sealed fitting such as a fire-rated downlight you run the risk of shortening its lifespan. In some instances, a dedicated LED luminaire may offer a superior long-term solution.

Dimming capabilities

Whether or not an LED bulb is dimmable depends on its driver, and even if it is dimmable you’ll still need an appropriate switch. We have an article to help navigate these choppy waters, here.

Embracing technology

We hope this article has conveyed some of what LED currently has to offer. LED replacement bulbs make more economical sense than ever before, with many options now available at under £10. Why not embrace one of the greatest technologies of our time?

For more inspiration, ideas and advice try our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

LED ceiling lights – our top 10

Posted on 23rd June 201417th March 2023 by Charles Barnett

Last updated on 17th March 2023

LED ceiling lights offer many benefits over fluorescent or incandescent alternatives. Aside from their incredible energy-efficiency and lifespan, the compact size of LEDs allows more flexibility in design. LED downlights and ceiling panels often fit into relatively shallow ceiling voids and are a cleaner, more hygienic lighting solution for hospitals, schools and offices. Surface-mounted fittings are also transformed in scope and performance by LED lamps.

At Lyco we keep a watchful eye on lighting innovation and trends and select only the best products for our customers. Here are our top 10 LED ceiling lights:

Ten top LED ceiling lights

Knightsbridge 5W Dimmable Fire Rated Downlight

This downlight offers a 25,000 hour lifespan and a 3-year manufacturer’s guarantee. Fire-rated, this downlight is tested for 90-minute ceilings, allowing crucial evacuation time for upper floors during a fire. Its impressive energy-efficiency easily surpasses the requirements of Part L Building Regulations.

Luceco 5W LED Downlight

To perfectly mimic the high quality light of a 50W low-voltage halogen equivalent, this superb downlight uses a special LED module with an 5W Sharp Cob LED chip. Its smooth, crisp light is delivered in a well-controlled beam with extremely low glare.

High Performance Downlight

There are two main differences between these two fittings. The first is longevity – the Sysion has a 50,000 hour lifespan against the 35,000 hours of the Cavan, so it’s ideal for long hours of use. The second is that it can be customised via interchangeable bezels and diffusers.

LED Light Panel

An improvement over old fluorescent modular ceiling fittings, this panel fits directly into existing ceiling grids. Its 50,000 hour lifespan and energy-efficient performance will significantly reduce maintenance and running costs. This is an ideal fitting for offices, schools, hospitals, and many other environments.

Rondure Pendant

Contemporary fittings like this Rondure pendant are often suspended low over dining tables or desks. This concentrates their light and creates a feeling of intimacy, even in a busy setting. A Decorative Filament Bulb is good for this purpose, as it’s attractive look complements the gold inner perfectly . The Rondure is ideal for restaurants, cafes, bars, or the home.

LED Batten

LED lights offer a variety of extra benefits over even the best modern fluorescent tubes. This LED batten not only slices a third off the running costs of a T8 fluorescent tube, but it’s also longer-lasting, tougher, immune to multi-switching, contains no mercury and is suitable for exterior use. Need we say more?

Prodisc LED Flush Fitting with Microwave Motion Sensor

This excellent LED flush fitting automatically switches on when it detects movement. To add to its capabilities it can be wired to a series of slave fittings, so that multiple lights are switched on by the same sensor. With its cool white 5000K output, the Prodisc is ideal as a money-saving LED fitting in environments such as hospitals or schools.

Carina LED Flush with Microwave Sensor

The Carina is a great alternative to the Prodisc. With its IP65 rating, this dust-tight and water-resistant luminaire can be installed almost anywhere, including outdoors or in bathrooms and washrooms. The subtle warm white light of the Carina is ideal for hospitality settings and residential use.

Scorpius 4-Light Spotlight

Modern spotlight fittings such as the Scorpius often come with integrated LEDs, so you’ll get years of service before any replacement is required. The Scorpius is a ceiling bar with fully adjustable light heads. Because the beam of an LED carries no IR heat and little or no UV, it is better suited for lighting sensitive objects such as artworks or textiles.

Acorn LED 3-Light and Track Kit

A track lighting system offers a little more versatility than a ceiling bar, as each light can be freely moved along a length of track as well as being angle-adjustable. The Acorn is ideal for lighting rooms and displays that are often altered. This light kit, which consists of 1-metre length of track and three spotlights, can be extended to a maximum 30 metres using separately available track lengths.

Investing in LED ceiling lights

Whether you’re an architect, interior designer, specifier, or end-user, LED ceiling lights deliver a new level of lighting performance whilst drastically reducing energy bills and the carbon footprint.

Why not take a look at our full range of LED ceiling lights?

Looking for more inspiration and advice? Take a look at our Lighting Advice section.

Charles Barnett Managing Director

Charles started Lyco in 1995 with just 4 enthusiastic employees and has grown it considerably over the past 25 years. Charles is also the Managing Director of Lighting Direct and newly acquired Online Lighting. He now has a team of 50 lighting experts working on growing Lyco Group to be the UK leader in lighting for both businesses and homes. Away from the office he is a keen cyclist and is proud to have cycled 1017 miles from Lands End to John O’Groats to raise money for a new residential centre for adults with multiple learning difficulties.

LED conversion – how much will I save?

Advantages of LED conversion

How much can I save by converting to LED?

LED conversion case study

Pre-conversion costs

Post conversion running costs

LED conversion conclusion

Related Articles

Lamp Shades And Light Distribution

A Few Things To Consider

Colour And Form

Lighting Patterns

Suspension Height

Rise And Fall Pendants

Matching Shades With Bulbs

Choosing Shades

Related Articles

Reception lighting – first impressions count

Reception lighting for small businesses and hotels

Small hotel reception lighting

Small office reception lighting

Reception lighting for large businesses and hotels

Large hotel reception lighting

Head office reception lighting

Save money by switching to LED

Related Articles

Outdoor lights for staff safety

Outdoor car parks

Covered car parks

Paths

Bike sheds

Security Camera

Lux measurement

Further info

Related Articles

Security lighting – protect your premises

Sensors

Light technologies

Home security lights

Business security lights

Security Camera

Entry systems and locks

A false sense of security

Related Articles

Introducing Eutrac 3 circuit track lighting

Triple your display lighting options

Light heads

Track

Putting it all together

Kits – easy openers

Related Articles

Uplighting: beam it up for extra effect

Creating drama

Reflecting light

Indoor uplighting

Outdoor uplighting

Become a lighting drama queen (or king)

Related Articles

LED replacement bulbs and their uses

Types of LED replacement bulb

Watts versus lumens

Can you replace any bulb with an LED?

Light Direction

Heat dissipation

Dimming capabilities

Embracing technology

Related Articles

LED ceiling lights – our top 10

Ten top LED ceiling lights

Luceco 5W LED Downlight

Carina LED Flush with Microwave Sensor

Investing in LED ceiling lights

Related Articles