Light switches – a choice of style and function

Posted on 6th May 201427th January 2023 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 27th January 2023

You may think there’s not much to say about light switches, but they’re more sophisticated than might be assumed. There are various styles to choose from, terminology to negotiate, and then with dimmer switches the complex topic of compatibility arises. This guide aims to cast light over some of these issues, describing the types of switch available, and where they’re used.

Design choices

Light switches are designed in a variety of ways. Some are purely functional, whilst others have style in mind, too. Here are some of the common design features:

- Flat plate: extremely low-profile, usable only on perfectly flat walls or tiles.
- Low profile: a slim but raised profile that allows installation on uneven surfaces.
- Metal clad: usually designed with a white plastic switch and an impact-resistant metal wall plate, these are used in industrial environments or in domestic rooms where damage is more likely (e.g. garage, games room).
- Moulded: an inexpensive plastic switch for use in areas where appearance is of secondary importance (e.g. workplaces, utility rooms, larders). The BG White Moulded 10A 1 Gang 2 Way Light Switch offers great value under this category.
- Screwless: provides a neat finish with no visible fixings, and installs easily by clipping onto a rear mount.
- Weatherproof: electrical components are well protected against dust and rain, either directly or through use of a sealed enclosure.
- Time Delay Switch: saves energy by automatically switching off light after a set duration. Lyco sell a 1-way Electronic Time Delay Switch with a neon-lit button perimeter for easy visibility.

Terminology

Terminology is pretty straightforward in light switches. The word ‘gang’ describes the number of switches on a wall plate. For example, a 2-gang switch is really two switches on a single plate, capable of controlling one light each.

The term ‘way’ describes the ability of a switch to operate in conjunction with other switches in different locations. For instance, a ‘2-way switch’ is usable in pairs to control the same light from two places. These switches can also be wired for conventional 1-way use with a single light.

Anyone researching switches on the internet should be aware that US terminology is different. The 2-way switch is known as a 3-way switch (owing to its use of three terminals), whilst an intermediate switch in the UK is equal to an American 4-way switch. Intermediate switching is used when the light is required to be controlled from three or more places (e.g. in large halls).

Dimmer switches

Dimmer switches are useful for controlling mood and saving energy. They can extend lamp life, too, depending on the lamp technology.

The type of switch you’re most likely to encounter is the phase-cut dimmer. This works by cutting out parts of the voltage and reducing power to the light source. There are two types to consider:

Leading-edge dimmer

The leading-edge dimmer is commonly used with incandescent or halogen lighting. By far the most popular dimmer in existence, it is designed for inductive loads (e.g. magnetic low-voltage transformers), or resistive loads (e.g. incandescent).

Many modern LED lamps are backward compatible with this style of dimmer. This is especially true of products from larger manufacturers. However, the low wattage of LED lamps makes it difficult to meet the minimum load requirement of existing dimmer switches.

Trailing-edge dimmer

The more sophisticated trailing-edge dimmer is intended for capacitive loads (e.g. electronic low-voltage transformers or LED drivers), and resistive loads (e.g. incandescent).

Some of the benefits of this dimmer include smooth, silent dimming and a lower minimum load for modern technologies. A ‘soft start’ feature is usually included, which prevents filament bulbs from prematurely expiring during a cold start.

The Varilight LED Compatible Dimmer range is an excellent choice for LED lighting circuits, whilst also offering compatibility with other technologies (including some dimmable CFLs). The award-winning Varilight V-Pro range is widely revered as one of the best LED dimmers on the market. This particular model has a minimum 2.5W load.

Various models from the Varilight V-Pro range are available from Lyco, including a 3-gang switch with a minimum 2.5W load per gang. By controlling multiple luminaires you can fine-tune areas of light and dark, which is a sure way of creating drama and ambience.

Bringer of light

Light switches are bringers of light, and though they’re part of everyday life, they also allow you to express yourself by adding finishing touches to décor. A wide choice of switches is available, from basic no-thrills to refined and stylish. You can even assume the role of lighting technician, using a dimmer switch to creatively control layers of light.

Why not take a look at our full range of switches and dimmers.

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

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.

American Diner Lights Showcase

Posted on 3rd April 201425th July 2024 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 25th July 2024

American diner lights are an increasingly popular style of fitting. Inspired by the stainless steel exteriors and metallic surfaces of the diners that were so synonymous with US culture in the 50s, 60s & 70s. The stunning American Diner range from Searchlight pays tribute to these iconic eateries, with a selection of traditional ceiling and wall lights.

These fittings certainly have a retro feel about them, with gleaming metallic finishes, decorative yet practical designs, and a subtly industrial look – perhaps a trace of the American railroad from whence the diners themselves originated back in the 1920s. Lyco stocks a wide variety of American Diner light fittings, meaning you can easily add a touch of American style to any premises or home.

The American Diner Lighting Range

The American Diner Semi-Flush Fitting has an IP44 rating to indicate possible Zone 1 and 2 bathroom use. This light looks fantastic in kitchen and dining areas, too, whether in the home or a restaurant. Much like many original American diner lights, it is compact in design and ideal for a low-ceilinged room.

Offering a choice of semi-flush installation or normal pendant use, Searchlight’s 3-Light mount fitting caters for any height of ceiling. Install this eye-catching luminaires over dining tables or a kitchen island.

Like all items in this range, the American Diner Pendant comes in a choice of metallic finishes. The glass is finished differently, too, with clear or frosted options. The former allows a slightly crisper light, whilst still cutting out glare with its ribbed surface. It also projects an attractive pattern onto ceilings. Frosted glass produces a softer light, and has a pleasing white finish to suit many styles of décor.

Ornate wall lights are another part of American Diner heritage, common as they were in the original dining cars of trains and alongside diner booths. Searchlight’s American Diner Wall Light is elegantly designed with a characteristic gleaming metallic finish, and offers convenient independent control with its on/off pull cord.

Value for money

The American Diner lighting range offers fantastic value for money, with an enticing blend of high-quality manufacturing and authentic style.

Why not take a look at our full range of American Diner lights?

For more inspiration, showcases and guides, try our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Touch lamps – how they work & where they shine

Posted on 13th March 201421st September 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 21st September 2021

Touch lamps are generally found by most people who have purchased them to be more convenient than conventional lamps. This is because you don’t have to feel your way along a cable or clutch at the lamp-holder when you need light. Touch lamps usually offer a much more generous target than a discreet on/off toggle switch. You simply need to touch the base or another metal part.

In addition to sheer practicality, touch control also offers aesthetic potential. Lighting designers can make modern lights simpler, more minimalistic, with clean, imaginative designs. They don’t have to ponder the position of the switch, and you don’t have to fumble for it. The same is true of traditional lamps, where the emphasis is often on elegant lines. All styles of table or desk lamp can benefit.

How touch lamps work

Once past the novelty factor, a touch switch is an intuitive way of operating things—not unlike the touch screen on most smart phones. In fact, the technology in a touch lamp is akin to a capacitive touch screen, relying on electricity stored in the human body for operation.

On/off

With a touch lamp, the base and other metal parts act almost like an antenna, loaded with a feeble electric charge that is harmless to humans. When the lamp is touched the human body effectively adds to the capacitance (electrical storage capacity) of the lamp, and the memory circuit that detects this change toggles the light on or off.

Dimming control

Many touch lamps allow dimming control as well as simple on/off functionality. This works in a similar way, with memory circuitry altering the power reaching the bulb in increments. Touching the lamp base switches the light on, and brightness alters with each subsequent touch. The final touch switches the light off again.

In touch with the right light

For practical reasons, touch technology is most used in lamps within arm’s reach, and tends not to be found in floor lamps. Most touch lamps are either desk or table lamps.

There are different types of lamps to suited to different locations. Here we take a look at some touch lamps and where they would look best:

Bedrooms

A bedside table lamp is useful for complementary lighting, and doubles as a handy reading light. For the traditional bedroom, the set of two Gloucester Touch Lamps are ideal. These lamps offer dimming control and have an antique brass finish with Alabaster glass shades.

For the modern bedroom the Lucide Len blends easily with many styles of décor.

Offices

Although regular table lamps can be used in an office, a more specific office light is the desk lamp. This is usually defined by it possessing an adjustable head.

Look for different finishes to suit either a contemporary or traditional office. We have desk lamps available in chrome, brass, and black.

Living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways

In a living room, dining room, or hallway, a table lamp usually provides complementary lighting. It brightens corners or alcoves, maximises space and creates mood. In a hallway it has a welcoming role to play. Multi-layered lighting is one of the key components in successful interior design.

Convenient to operate is the decorative Tyso Table Lamp, in an antique brass finish. With a gold-coloured shade, warm brass finish and touch control dimming it can certainly help create a welcoming, relaxing ambience. The Lucide Paolo on the other hand is perfect for adding sparkle to a room, with its patterned silver style and decorative lighting pattern shade. However, for simple elegance, the Dar Jot Touch Lamp is difficult to beat. Its polished chrome base is complemented by a opal glass shade. This classy touch-dimmable lamp is ideal for a contemporary home or hospitality premises.

Touch and go

Often, the simplest inventions are the ones we appreciate most. They make life just that little bit easier. With a touch lamp, light is only ever an instant away.

Still not found exactly what you’re looking for? Take a look at our full range of touch lamps

Looking for more inspiration and information? Try our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Top 10 Conservatory lights

Posted on 19th February 20149th August 2024 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 9th August 2024

Whether you’re investing in a conservatory for your own home or installing one for a customer, lighting is a key factor. It’s easy to enjoy this naturally lit space when bathed by the sun, but with the right lighting it’ll become a room to relax in night and day, the whole year round.

Direction is important

One important aspect of conservatory lighting is direction of light. In most rooms of a house, light reflects off walls and ceilings to create widespread diffused illumination. This is not the case in a conservatory, where misdirected light will simply escape, and might cause glare.

The hallmark of successful conservatory lighting is that it seamlessly connects the house to the garden, with a multi-layered lighting scheme that is both visually stimulating and welcoming. Ideally, this should extend to the garden itself rather than ending abruptly with a dark void.

Our top 10

To help you plan your lighting scheme, we’ve put together a list of our 10 most popular lights, chosen for conservatories:

Sunbeam Wire Light System

Ideal for uneven ceilings, the Searchlight Thunder Wire Light System allows you to easily introduce overhead lighting in a conservatory. Each of the unobtrusive lights can be positioned anywhere along the wire, so this is a flexible way of highlighting display items or room features, and looks great when layered with a softer, overall light.

Edit Eye 3 Light Spotlitght Bar

The Eye 3 Light Spotlight Bar is another way of providing directional light in a conservatory, and being wall mountable it is installable onto the wall that was previously on the exterior the house prior to the conservatory being built, if necessary.

Limina Plaster Floor Uplighter

Uplighters provide dramatic accent lighting to emphasise texture and form, and can be used to provide a feeling of extra space by lighting walls and corners. The Limina Plaster Floor Uplighter is an excellent choice for a contemporary conservatory, and can be painted to match any environment.

Elva Twin Spotlight

The modern-looking Elva Twin Spotlight is a versatile fitting with exceptional adjustability in each light head. This is an IP44 rated fitting that can also be used outside and is made of quality aluminium.

Friend LED Floor Lamp with USB Charging Port

A nice feature of the Friend Floor Lamp is its built-in dimmability. The ability to control light is useful in a conservatory, as it enables you to balance artificial and natural lighting according to outside conditions. The Montana offers a reading lamp as well as an uplighter plus a handy USB charging port and shelf – perfect for charging your phone.

Edit Berkley Table Lamp

Table lamps provide a great final touch in a conservatory, emitting a warm, soft glow of light to help make it a comfortable space, our top pick is this large statement lamp, the Berkley Table Lamp.

A pendant is virtually a must-have if the conservatory is to be used as a dining area, so the structure of the conservatory may need to be chosen or adapted accordingly.

Lucide Soft Pendant

No pendant could be more befitting to a conservatory than one derived from nature. The Lucide Goosy Soft Pendant fits directly into an existing lamp-holder and makes a stunning centrepiece for dining areas.

Forum Agol

Another shade-only lighting solution is the beautiful Agol Easy-fit Shade by Forum. Manufactured in a soothing smoked finish, this shade can be accompanied by a large globe bulb to produce a beautifully diffuse, widespread light.

Dynamo Pendant Light

For a retro look that will adorn many conservatories there’s the Dynamo Pendant. This fitting is available in a choice of coloured and metal finishes. A halogen bulb delivers bright overall lighting from this pendant, though a decorative-filament bulb has more visual appeal and typically emits a warmer glow of light. Remember that all filament bulbs are dimmable with the appropriate switch.

Edit Rondure Pendant

Another mood-inducing light is the Edit Rondure Pendant, which has a gold inner shade project a warm toned light. This fitting is perfect for low suspension over a dining table, where it will excel at defining space and creating intimacy.

Self-sufficient garden lighting

You might think a conservatory is a prime candidate for solar powered lights. Unfortunately, window glass greatly reduces a solar panel’s ability to gather power, so any indoor lighting would have to be driven by an outdoor solar panel. Removable solar panels are very occasionally used in small indoor light fittings, but for the time being this idea remains impractical and largely untapped. We’ll let you know when this changes.

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

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Light bulb technology – a basic guide

Posted on 11th February 201429th July 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th July 2021

In the past, light bulb technology was far simpler than it is today. The only bulb-buying decision most of us made was choice of wattage, and even that was usually pre-decided by our light fitting. So there was nothing to consider.

Nowadays, things are a little more complicated as the number of types of light bulbs has increased. Several technologies now compete for our attention: incandescent, halogen, energy-saving halogen, fluorescent, and LED.

Each technology has its own particular set of advantages. The following paragraphs briefly outline them, helping you to invest in precisely the bulb(s) you need.

Incandescent

An incandescent bulb produces light when an electric current passes through its filament, causing it to glow. Only around 10% of the energy consumed by an incandescent bulb is converted into visible light, with the rest being used to generate heat. Many previously available incandescent bulbs have been phased out by EU legislation, due to their inefficiency, but a few specialist products still remain.

Despite its failings, incandescent technology has some inherent advantages:

Inexpensive
Dimmable by default
Maximum CRI 100 score for reliable colour rendering
Amount of light (measured in lumens) remains consistent throughout lifespan
Instant light

Halogen / energy-saving halogen

Halogen technology is a form of incandescent lighting, the main difference being that the filament is tightly enclosed by a heat-resistant quartz or hard glass envelope. Inside this envelope is a halogen gas, whose purpose is mainly to return evaporated tungsten onto the filament, thus extending the lifespan of the bulb. It does this through a chemically reactive process known as ‘the halogen cycle’.

Energy-saving halogen bulbs use either an IR reflective coating or a less conductive premium-fill gas (i.e. krypton or xenon) to reduce heat loss and increase efficiency.

Halogen advantages include:

Inexpensive
Very crisp, bright-looking light (especially low voltage)
Dimmable by default
Maximum CRI 100 score for colour rendering, with slightly less red bias than original incandescent bulbs (i.e. better balanced for colour-critical applications)
Amount of light (in lumens) remains consistent throughout lifespan
Double the lifespan of original incandescent bulbs
Available in ‘capsule’ form for use in space-confined applications
Energy-saving versions use 20-30% fewer watts than original incandescent or regular halogen technology
Instant light

Fluorescent

Fluorescent lighting comes in tube or CFL form. The latter (Compact Fluorescent Lamp) includes spirals, sticks, 2D, Biax, and retrofit low-energy bulbs. Regardless of shape, fluorescent lighting works by exciting mercury atoms with an electric current. In turn, this produces a UV light that stimulates the interior phosphor coating, causing it to fluoresce and emit visible light.

Fluorescent light sources require a ‘ballast’ to regulate current and deliver sufficient voltage to start the lamp. Most CFLs include this in their base, allowing use as direct replacements for regular bulbs. Fluorescent tubes and some lamps require an external ballast, which is usually integral to the light fitting.

Perhaps the greatest disadvantage in fluorescent lighting is a generally inferior dimming capability (often non-existent), but there are various advantages:

Inexpensive by comparison to LED
High energy efficiency—typically 70-80% more efficient than incandescent or halogen
Very long lifespan compared to filament bulbs, reducing maintenance costs
Strong omnidirectional diffuse light that is especially useful as a main light source
Broad choice of colour temperatures
Low running temperature

LED

The LED, or Light Emitting Diode, has been intensely developed in recent years to become one of the greatest clean technologies of the early 21^st century. LEDs can produce a white light in a couple of ways, either by blending red, green and blue primary colours, or by use of a blue LED and yellow phosphor. The latter is a cheaper and easier way of producing bright white LEDs, and is behind most LED design.

Most modern LED bulbs use High Power LEDs, which can be surface-mounted to produce a bright omnidirectional light. A second type of LED is the COB (Chip-on-Board), which consists of LED chips packaged extremely densely into a single LED module. Allowing a fantastically smooth and intense light, COB LEDs are often used to closely replicate halogen spotlights.

LED bulbs generally require a greater initial investment than other technologies, but the expense is always likely to be recovered, and usually within a few months in commercial environments. Here are some of the numerous advantages:

Exceptional energy efficiency, usually superior to fluorescent and converting about 80% of used energy to light
Long lifespan that greatly reduces maintenance costs (up to 50,000 hours)
Negligible IR or UV radiation reduces degradation when lighting sensitive items (e.g. artworks, food)
Shock and vibration resistant (solid-state form of lighting)
Reliable cold-temperature performance
Extremely compact for design flexibility
Broad choice of colour temperatures
Very good dimming performance with compliant drivers and switches. Colour remains constant even when dimmed to low levels.
Directional form of light with very little spilled light outside of its specified beam
Unaffected by frequent switching
Instant light

Feel free to browse our full range of light bulbs.

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

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Fire-rated downlights – safety first!

Posted on 22nd January 201429th July 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th July 2021

Fire-rated downlights are designed to preserve the integrity of a ceiling in the event of a fire. They have a metal can at the rear containing intumescent materials, which expand under extreme heat to form a seal within the light housing. This stops flames taking hold of vulnerable ceiling cut-outs and delays a floor collapse, providing crucial evacuation time for upstairs occupants.

Compliance required

Of uppermost concern when buying fire-rated downlights is compliance with Part B Fire Safety Regulations (England and Wales). Tables A1 and A2 in Approved Document B (volumes 1 and 2) provide easy reference to specific requirements, available online.

Aside from Part B requirements, recessed downlights should comply with Part C (air flow), Part E (acoustics), Part L (energy efficiency), and Part P (domestic electrical safety) Building Regulations. All of Lyco’s downlights fully comply or aid compliance with these regulations.

Fire-rated fittings

To comply with Part B Building Regulations, recessed ceiling lights are often tested for their level of fire protection, and may be fire rated for 30, 60, 90, or even 120 minutes.

Most 2 or 3-storey houses have a minimum 30 minute fire-rated ceiling requirement, whilst a higher four-storey house typically has a 60-minute rating. A taller residential building whose top floor stands between 18m and 30m high will require 90-minute ceiling protection, whilst anything above that needs 120 minutes.

These same figures are broadly applicable to commercial or industrial buildings, with some concession given for ceilings fitted with sprinklers. Non-fire-rated downlights can be installed into domestic ceilings below a roof void. Otherwise they must be used with an intumescent fire hood, and can easily end up costing more than fire-rated fittings with this extra expense.

For affordability, Lyco sell a range of Robus fixed downlights using a standard halogen GU10 bulb. Available in White or Satin Chrome finishes, these fire-rated downlights offer an economical means of improving fire safety in any building. Halogen GU10 bulbs are notable for dissipating much of their heat through the front of the lamp, using an aluminium reflector design.

Halogen downlights for bathrooms

One of the great advantages of halogen technology is its sheer quality of light, which is only hinted at by a default maximum CRI 100 score. Halogen light is well-suited to bathrooms, where its warm hue is flattering to skin tones, and excellent colour rendering helps in tasks such as make-up application.

With an IP65 rating, the halogen-lit Eon Directional Downlight can be positioned in zones 1, 2, and ‘outside zones’ of a bathroom. It is completely protected against dust and jets of water, despite an adjustable light head. This fitting is fire-rated at 90 minutes, and available in White, Polished Chrome and Satin Chrome finishes.

The LED advantage

In commercial or retail environments, the LED downlight is fast becoming king. It uses up to 90% less energy than halogen lighting, and with a phenomenal lifespan (the Fireguard range offers up to 75,000 hours) it also saves substantially in maintenance costs. This is especially significant in difficult-to-reach recessed lights.

One of the very best manufacturers of fire-rated LED downlights is JCC, with its diverse Fireguard LED3 and LED7 ranges. These fittings are mostly waterproof, hugely energy-efficient and come in both dimmable and non-dimmable options. They use 3 or 6-LED arrays with equivalent outputs to 35W or 50W halogen downlights, respectively. A choice of cool or warm colour temperatures is another LED advantage over filament lights.

The JCC Fireguard LED3 models have a particularly modest depth, making them ideal for shallow ceiling voids. At the high end of the scale, one of the primary advantages of a Fireguard LED6 model is its amazing 75,000 hour lifespan. The quality of all Fireguard products is backed by a generous manufacturer’s guarantee.

Fire-Rated Downlights – which should I choose?

Buy halogen for its superb quality of light and up-front affordability. Choose LED for its incredible energy-efficiency and longevity. If you’re buying fire-rated downlights, Lyco has a solution to precisely meet your needs. Why not take a look at our full range of fire-rated downlights today?

Looking for more news, information or inspiration? Try our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

SAD lights – fluorescent tubes to fight depression

Posted on 23rd December 20139th August 2024 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 9th August 2024

Ask most people if they prefer a sunny day to a cloudy one, and you’ll doubtless get a silly answer! We may not always realize it but the Sun is our feel good source, and for quite a few of us the winter months, which feature less and less sunlight, provides a real challenge to the way we feel. That’s where an SAD light can help. SAD lights brings the benefits of the Sun indoors and helps fight off the blues for many people who knowingly or not are SAD sufferers.

What is SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression commonly associated with lack of exposure to sunlight during winter months. Symptoms include low mood and profound lack of motivation. Tiredness and a constant desire to sleep are also indicators. Such symptoms always warrant the attention of a GP, as they can be difficult to surmount alone.

Physical causes

Lack of sunlight adversely affects production of melatonin and serotonin hormones in the body, causing SAD. This imbalance can be helped naturally by a SAD lamp and other remedies.

Melatonin helps to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm (body clock) and produce sleep. Sufferers of SAD often have higher than average amounts of melatonin in their body during winter months.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter affecting multiple human functions, including sleep, appetite, mood, and nerve cell communication. Lack of exposure to bright, natural light decreases the body’s production of serotonin, and low serotonin levels are commonly linked to depression.

The role of light in SAD

One of the chief treatments for SAD is bright light therapy. This involves the patient being exposed to an intense artificial light of remarkably high quality, resembling daylight as closely as possible. Most UV radiation is removed from the light source, to avoid damage to either skin or eyes.

Treatment times vary not only between patients, but also according to the intensity of light. A 2,000 to 10,000 lux light is typically used, which is many times stronger than any regular bulb. Thirty minutes to three hours of treatment per day is normal.

If circumstances permit, regular walks and plenty of exposure to natural daylight are prescribed for most sufferers of depression. SAD is often caused when work prevents this possibility (it is common in night-workers, who generally sleep through winter daylight).

A supporting role – daylight is not enough!

As a preventive measure or to support ongoing SAD treatment, products such as SAD tubes or SAD lights are available. These closely match daylight in most respects, except for sheer intensity.

To deal with a misconception, for a bulb to actually behave like daylight, it is not enough for it to emit a 6500K daylight colour temperature. Although this is a useful quality, it has to be combined with exceptional colour rendering. A near-maximum 98% Colour Rendering Index (CRI) score always indicates this.

This combination of critical colour rendering and a daylight colour temperature is very rare in electric lighting. Incandescent is arguably the best light source for colour with a default CRI 100 score, but the filament of a lamp would melt before it resembled daylight in overall colour.

At the high end of the LED market, products with outstanding colour rendering are emerging, but they’re expensive and meant for other purposes. For health applications, a fluorescent SAD tube offers an easy, affordable answer to improving indoor light quality.

Fluorescent SAD tubes

From a health perspective, the most important point about these tubes is their ‘full spectrum light’, as Sylvania and other manufacturers call it. But what is this?

In marketing, ‘full spectrum light’ refers to a light source that emulates daylight in its colour-rendering ability and colour temperature. Other daylight or sunlight qualities might be implied, especially UV radiation in a fluorescent tube. This is useful for producing vitamin D in the body, which affects the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Sylvania SAD Activa tubes meet all of these criteria. They radiate at all wavelengths of the visible spectrum (i.e. all visible colours exist in their light), with an overall 6500K colour temperature. They also radiate outside of the visible spectrum to produce a safe amount of UV light.

When a light source covers the entire visible spectrum, it scores a very high or maximum CRI rating by default. It’s a property that trumps the Colour Rendering Index. The Sylvania SAD Fluorescent Tubes have a CRI 98 score, which signifies outstanding colour rendering.

How will these lights help fight SAD?

With SAD tubes installed, everything falling under their light will look natural, as if being lit by neutral window light. Colours will be enlivened and rendered accurately. The tubes will reduce eyestrain, headaches, and tiredness, and they’ll stimulate energy.

Light intensity and quality affects serotonin and melatonin levels in the body. This is the basis for bright light therapy and exposing SAD sufferers to as much good-quality light as possible.

Installing SAD tubes

The energy-efficient Sylvania SAD Fluorescent Tubes come in a standard T8 size, which is a 1” diameter tube with a double-ended G13 cap. They will slot into any existing T8 linear fluorescent light fitting. A long average lifespan of 14,000 hours adds to their exceptional value.

To take a look at our full range of SAD lights.

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

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Halogen light bulbs buying guide

Posted on 19th November 201329th March 2022 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th March 2022

Halogen lighting has become very popular over the last fifty years. Halogen and Energy Saving Halogen bulbs offer a completely different set of features to other forms of lighting.

How halogen bulbs work

Halogen bulbs are a type of incandescent bulb and just like an incandescent use a tungsten filament. However, unlike the incandescent, the filament on the halogen bulb is enclosed by a small heat-resistant quartz or hard glass envelope. This envelope is filled with a halogen gas, which returns evaporated tungsten back onto the filament, increasing lifespan. This regenerative process is called the ‘halogen cycle’. A halogen bulb filament is hotter than that of an incandescent bulb, usually at 3000K.

A relatively large bulb such as a halogen GLS is essentially a ‘bulb within a bulb’, with the quartz envelope enclosed by a further glass casing. Smaller bulbs such as halogen capsules need especially careful handling, as they have no exterior cover and glass contamination causes premature failure.

Energy-saving halogen bulbs

Original halogen lighting is only fractionally more energy-efficient than incandescent. However, newer energy-saving halogen bulbs generally use 20-30% fewer watts than incandescent or standard halogen equivalents. This is achieved in two ways:

Premium-fill gases like xenon or krypton are used instead of argon, causing the filament to burn more brightly and reducing required power for identical output.
An IR reflective coating on the halogen quartz envelope bounces infrared heat back onto the filament, again causing it to burn more brightly for the same wattage.

Incandescent replacement

Energy-saving halogen technology is widely used in retrofit products for replacing incandescent bulbs, many of which have been phased out recently by EU legislation. It produces a marginally cooler, brighter-looking light than the old technology, and is better than incandescent light at rendering short wavelength colours (i.e. violets and blues).

Energy-saving halogen bulbs are available as an economical alternative to incandescent GLS bulbs, candles, ‘R’ reflectors, globes and golf balls. Halogen typically has twice the lifespan of an incandescent equivalent.

Halogen spotlights – mains-voltage GU10 & GZ10

Halogen is one of the primary technologies used in spotlighting, partly due to the fantastic choice of products available. Another reason for its popularity is its superb colour rendering. A halogen bulb includes all colours of the visible spectrum in its light, which means colour is displayed with more consistency than is possible in LED or fluorescent technologies.

The GU10 spotlight is by far the most common type of mains-voltage halogen reflector. It is used in accent lighting, task lighting, and general lighting. GU10 bulbs use what is known as a ‘twist and lock’ base, introduced by Sylvania in 1996. The base provides a very secure electrical contact, similar in principle to a bayonet cap.

One defining factor in a GU10 is that IR heat is always projected forward in the beam, whereas many MR16 low-voltage bulbs of the same size (50mm diameter) use a dichroic filter to dissipate heat through the back of the bulb.

The GZ10 bulb is a relatively rare mains-voltage bulb that dissipates its heat using a dichroic filter through the back of the bulb. The GZ10 is unsuitable for use in most GU10 light fittings, and despite having the same pin arrangement it should not theoretically fit (a GU10 bulb has a bevelled base, whilst the GZ10 is squared). Light fittings normally carry a ‘no cool beam’ symbol to signify incompatibility with the GZ10.

Halogen spotlights – low voltage AR111, MR8, MR11 & MR16

Halogen AR111 spotlights are often used in shops or showrooms, and normally have a metal block over their filament to prevent glare.

The massively popular MR16 is universally loved by specifiers, partly for its wide variety of designs and beam angles.

Low-voltage spotlights are available with an aluminium-coated reflector, which projects IR heat forwards, or with a dichroic filter that allows IR heat to pass through the back of the lamp. A dichroic spotlight is useful for displaying heat-sensitive objects like food, artworks, or textiles.

Another advantage of low-voltage spotlights is their sharper, brighter quality of light over mains-voltage counterparts. In addition to display lighting, LV halogen spotlights are common in downlights and wire lighting systems.

Halogen low-voltage spotlights use the following caps:

AR111 = G53
MR8 and MR11 = GU4
MR16 = GU5.3

All halogen low-voltage lamps require a 12V transformer, which is used to step down mains voltage to individual or multiple LV bulbs, dependent on maximum load.

Linear Halogens

Linear halogen lamps with R7s bases are found in floodlighting and security lights. The filament of the lamp is supported along its complete length, and the round bases at either end fit into sprung contacts. The filament must remain horizontal to maintain lifespan.

Specialist halogen R7s heat lamps include jacketed and non-jacketed versions. Jacketed lamps tend to last longer, since they’re protected from contaminants such as food.

Heat lamps are available in clear, ruby, or gold finishes. A clear finish is used where the bright white light of halogen is required in addition to heat. Ruby or gold finishes subdue light output for applications where heat is predominantly needed.

Capsules

Halogen capsules are used in applications such as caravan lighting, boat lighting, pelmet lighting, or desk lighting. They come in low-voltage G4 or GY6.35 types, or a mains voltage G9 format. The suffixed numbers in their names are based on the distance in millimetres between their two pin centres.

The G9 is the most compact mains-voltage halogen bulb available, and because it requires no 12V transformer it’s widely used in extremely small light fittings.

High-powered specialist halogen capsules are also available for applications such as theatre, TV, film, or projector lighting.

Take a look at our range of light bulbs.

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

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Solar lights provide light all year round!

Posted on 11th November 201329th July 2021 by Andrew Evangelidis

Last updated on 29th July 2021

It is a common misconception that solar lights do not work on cloudy days. Though solar panels gather more energy on a clear, sunny day, they require only daylight to function. Lyco’s high quality solar products are designed to work efficiently throughout a UK winter.

History of Solar Lights

Solar lights seem a modern idea, but they first appeared around fifty years ago. Photovoltaic or solar energy itself was first glimpsed in the 19^th century, but it wasn’t until the discovery of the silicon solar cell in the 1950s that solar energy could finally be used to power small electrical devices.

By the 1970s solar energy was being used in offshore navigation lights (e.g. oil rigs), lighthouses, and railway lighting. Since then progress has seen us move towards the perfect partnership of sunlight and LED …

Solar lighting and LED

LED has a host of qualities that make it suitable for solar use:

Longevity – Extreme longevity means you can fit a solar LED light into any hard-to-reach position without worrying about a replacement.
Environment-proof – LED lighting is unaffected by any low UK temperature. It will provide instant-on light even in sub-zero temperatures, reaching full brightness immediately.
Hardy – As a solid state form of lighting, all LED lights are naturally shock-proof and vibration-proof, making them suitable for robust outdoor use.
Disposable – Zero mercury content makes LEDs eco-friendly and easily disposable at the end of their useful life.
Compact – LEDs are remarkably compact, which means a wide range of solar-powered products are available, including LED rope lights and fairy lights.
Direct Current – As LED technology uses DC power it synchronises easily with the DC power produced by solar panels.

Improvements in LED solar lights

In recent years, LED has become increasingly viable as a solar-powered light source. Lumen-per-watt performance has roughly doubled for every three years of LED development. Already LEDs are being used in car headlamps, aircraft anti-collision lights, and in solar or non-solar street lights.

A good solar light will have a high-quality circuitry, a bright LED with high lumen-per-watt efficacy, and a decent rechargeable battery. NiMH batteries offer longer discharge time and higher capacity than Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) batteries. Li-Ion batteries have minimal ‘memory effect’, so they can be partially discharged and recharged repeatedly.

Products

Lyco sell a diverse range of carefully selected solar lights including:

Security Lights

The modern-looking Astron Solar PIR LED Floodlight automatically triggers light when it detects movement. It uses 64 LEDs to produce the equivalent output of a powerful 150W halogen lamp, which is easily bright enough to deter potential intruders. The Astron uses a Li-Ion battery and can be activated up to 100 times per night for 1-minute durations.

Wall Lights

The Canterbury Solar Wall Light is a stylish fitting from The Solar Centre with a built-in ‘dusk to dawn’ photocell for automatic lighting overnight. An override switch lets you switch it on and off as required. With its pair of 600mAh NiMH batteries, the Canterbury is able to keep its super-bright white SMD LED going for up to 10 hours from a full charge.

Line Lights

For decorative effect, the Bling String Solar Fairy Lights can be wrapped around trees, parasols, gazebos, or trellises, and installed within minutes. These energy-efficient LED lights can stay lit for up to 12 hours using their included rechargeable batteries. They have a ‘dusk to dawn’ photocell that automatically turns the lights on and off overnight.

Post Lights

Part of the Silverlight range, the Durham Solar LED Post Light is ideal for lighting driveway or path entrances or highlighting garden features. Its pair of NiMH batteries enables 10 hours of light once fully charged. A dusk to dawn sensor is integrated, which automatically switches the light on during darkness and off again as it gets light. This can be overridden by a manual on/off switch.

Spotlights

The Helios Solar LED Spotlight is constructed with a die-cast aluminium body, and delivers a superbly reliable performance. A crisp light is emitted from four super-bright white LEDs, powered by two AA 1000mAh NiMH batteries. These lights have an 8m range, and can last for up to 10 hours. A dusk-to-dawn sensor switches on the Helios overnight, or you can use a manual on/off button. This is one of the best solar spotlights on the market!

Solar potential

To illustrate solar energy potential, the earth receives more energy from the sun in one hour than the entire world uses in a year.

Feel free to take a look at our full range of solar lights.

Need more information, advice or a few more ideas? Try our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

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