You might have already realised the multiple benefits of using LED lighting for your home. The energy efficient lighting option can save you money and reduce your carbon footprint. Next thing to think about is how to switch to it for your home’s ambient lighting. It is important to use the right downlights that can blend with your other lights, perform well and last a long time. What are the essential things you should know before buying? Read on.

Brightness Level

Determine the brightness of downlight you need. Measured in lumens, this is the output of light wherein the higher the measure, the brighter the light. LED bulbs of 2 to 3 watts have about 100 lumens, while 50-watt bulbs have about 4000. It is not always necessary to choose the ones with the highest lumens, for the right brightness depends on the room’s requirement. The rating or brightness of the downlight depends on the room’s height and size. LED bulbs of 9 to 15 watts are enough for a home that is 2.4 to 2.7 metres high.

Colour Temperature

Measured in Kelvin, this is the colour of the light, which can be warm or cool. Warm lights are yellowish and lower in Kelvin, while cool lights are bluish and higher in Kelvin. If you want warm white, that is about 4000 Kelvin. If you prefer cool white, that is equal to more than 4000 Kelvin. The colour temperature is an important consideration as it can affect your home’s atmosphere. There is even a study that showed the relationship of colour temperature to sleeping patterns. In this regard, it has been asserted that warm white is more soothing than cool white is.

Beam Angle

In simple terms, the beam angle is the spread of light. If you want wider spread of light, you can choose a wider angle that works best for general ambient lighting. If you want a more concentrated light, you can go for narrower beam angle of 60 degrees or less.

Frame

You also need to decide whether you need fixed or adjustable downlights, though you can have both. With adjustable frames, you can change the direction of light, an excellent option for task lighting. If you’re on a budget, fixed frame is always a good choice for general lighting.

Other Considerations

You have an option to purchase downlights with surface socket outlets so it’s easy to replace broken lights yourself. Though not necessary, there’s dimming technology now available in downlights. This allows you to control the light output, but expect higher costs. The warranty is also worth considering as those with longer warranties can save you money.

With so many downlights to choose from in the market, it can be confusing to decide the ones to buy. By examining the key points above, you will be able to select wisely. It is also a good practice to buy spares. Though downlights can last long, especially if they are from www.downlightsdirect.co.uk, replacing them will not be difficult if the model is discontinued.