Change or repair light fittings

Still struggling with the 'energy-efficient' compact tube lights buzzing and taking an age to brighten to a lacklustre glow?

Lighting has come a long way since filament lamps illuminated our rooms and fluorescent strip lights donned the kitchen ceiling. This lighting revolution has happened quickly, leaving some homeowners feeling overwhelmed by the choices.  Don't worry, we're here to help! Call us today and let's embrace the possibilities and find the perfect solutions for your home! 

Modern LED technology offers a plethora of improvements over the previous options. LED filament bulbs, for example, combine exceptional energy savings with the classic, light patterns of traditional incandescent bulbs bringing back the sparkle to your light fittings, with instant full brightness. They even come in a range of colour temperatures, allowing you to tailor the ambience of each room. LED lighting is so well adapted that it has effectively replaced all other lighting technology! With many other forms of lighting being banned from sale due to poor energy efficiency.

Upgrading your lighting is an investment that pays off in style, energy savings, and a more comfortable living environment. With retrofit options available to give many of the benefits with lower cost and disruption.

LED lighting is available in many different styles. Whether it's a crystal chandelier or modern geometric or sculptured lighting energy-efficient LED is the solution. This lighting source is now so well designed that it will take a close look to distinguish an LED lamp from an incandescent one.

LED lighting comes in many different forms and as it is available in different sizes, it has given sleek options that weren't possible in traditional lighting methods. These include panel lights only 18mm thick, LED tape that can be fixed under cabinets, around bathroom mirrors and up staircases. Profiles are available to integrate these in ceilings and walls leaving a flush and clean look.

The technology also produces less heat, which allows some downlights to be covered by thermal insulation, stops staining above lights, is less likely to cause scalding is accidentally touched and is resistant to knocks, unlike the superheated filament in tungsten and halogen lamps.

In the good ol' days, everyone seemed to know how bright the lamps were. Lighting levels were understood in watts. Need a room brighter? stick in a 100-watt lamp. Too harsh? Lower it to a 40-watt. This worked well when there was only one main technology but these wattages are difficult to compare across other sources. 

Typically the lamp output was:

• 40w - 450lm

• 60w - 800lm

• 100w - 1600lm. 

At first, a comparison was made with the tungsten equivalents;

• 5w being equivalent to a 40w, 

• 10w - 60w and; 

• 19w- 100w. 

This may be a good rule of thumb but as technology develops it is less reliable. Philips LED Ultra Efficient 4-watt Lamp produces over 800lm, This would be considered comparable with the 60w. The Screwfix LAP branded 5.5watt lamp only produces 470lm, these run the components hotter to extract light at the expense of efficiency and lifespan. 

So the question should be how many lumens! Call today and discuss your lighting needs and transform you room through lighting!

General lighting sets the stage for a comfortable and functional home environment. It provides the essential illumination for navigating rooms safely and performing everyday tasks. However, it should also be adaptable to create the desired atmosphere. 

Task lighting goes beyond mere illumination; it empowers you to tackle specific activities with optimal clarity and comfort. Whether you're engrossed in a book, whipping up a culinary masterpiece, or diligently working from home, targeted task lighting makes a world of difference. 

Accent lighting is more about artistry. It adds depth, drama, and personality to your home, highlighting architectural details, furniture, and treasured possessions. It's a chance to showcase your unique style and create a captivating ambiance. 

Worried about high energy bills? The latest lighting technology can significantly reduce your energy consumption, saving you money and helping the environment. Not only will you enjoy immediate benefits like style and energy savings, but the long-lasting nature of LED technology will save you money on replacements for years to come. Here's how:

LED Efficiency: LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, meaning you'll see a noticeable difference in your electricity bills. Imagine the impact on your wallet over a year!

Long Lifespan: Unlike traditional bulbs that need frequent replacement, LEDs last for years. This translates to fewer bulbs to buy and less waste ending up in landfills.

Smart Lighting Options: Smart lighting systems with occupancy sensors and dimmers allow you to further optimize energy use. Lights automatically turn off when a room is unoccupied, and dimming reduces energy consumption compared to full brightness.

Environmental Impact: By reducing your reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation, you're contributing to a greener future. Every watt saved helps lessen your carbon footprint.

Gone are the days of simply flipping a switch on and off. Modern lighting control systems offer a range of options to enhance functionality, create ambience, and even save energy. Let's explore some popular control methods, including the latest trends in dimming and colour control:

• PIR (Passive Infrared): These sensors detect movement using heat signatures. Lights automatically turn on when someone enters a room and turn off after a set period of inactivity, ideal for hallways, closets, and outdoor security lighting.

• Microwave Sensors: Unlike PIR sensors, microwave sensors can detect motion through walls, making them suitable for areas with limited visibility or motion behind cabinets. Think garages, attics, or basements.

• Smart Lighting: Smart lighting systems connect to your Wi-Fi network for control via smartphone app or voice assistants. Create lighting scenes, set schedules, remotely control lights from anywhere, and even incorporate features like:

  • Dim to Warm: This technology allows LED lights to mimic the behaviour of incandescent bulbs, gradually shifting colour temperature from a cooler white to a warm and inviting amber glow as you dim the light. Perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere.

  • Colour Changing: Transform your space with colour-changing LED lights. Choose a single colour, set dynamic scenes that change based on mood or activity, or even synchronize lights with music.

• Kinetic Switching: This innovative technology utilizes kinetic energy harvesting to power a wireless signal. A simple tap, swipe, or clap on the switch generates enough energy to transmit a signal to a receiver, turning lights on/off or adjusting brightness. Ideal for areas where traditional switches might be inconvenient, like under-cabinet lighting or walk-in closets, as there's no need for wiring or batteries.

• LED Dimmers: Essential for creating the right mood, LED dimmers allow you to adjust the brightness of your LED lights. Choose from rotary dials, touch panels, or smart dimmers that integrate with your smart home system. 

Choosing the Right Control:

The best control option depends on your needs and preferences. Here's a quick guide:

• Need automatic on/off and energy savings? PIR or microwave sensors are ideal.

• Want remote control, scheduling, and dimming/colour options? Smart lighting with Dim to Warm and colour-changing features is a great choice.

• Looking for a wireless and batteryless solution? Kinetic switching offers a convenient option for specific areas.

• Do you have LED lights and want to simply adjust brightness? Invest in LED dimmers.

Embrace the Possibilities!

With a variety of control options, dimming and colour control features, you can create a personalized lighting experience that enhances your comfort, saves energy, and sets the perfect mood for any occasion. Explore the possibilities with us and unlock a whole new world of lighting control, Call today!

While a competent DIYer or handyman might be able to swap a light fixture, consider the long-term benefits of hiring a qualified electrician which may not cost much more than the handyman.

Electricians possess the expertise, experience, and specialised tools to ensure a safe and compliant installation and, can provide certification for their work.

Improper electrical work, even if seemingly successful initially, can lead to hidden dangers which often contribute to failing safety inspections. Work by DIY'er and handymen causing faults due to a lack of knowledge is a common occurrence.

Light fittings are often designed for the European market, and the wiring methods and cable type in England differ from Europe, adapting these are sometimes tricky and require specialist knowledge to maintain safety.

Beyond aesthetics, crucial factors like fire safety ratings and environmental suitability for the fixture need to be considered.

While an electrician's service might seem like an additional expense upfront, it's actually a wise investment. You gain peace of mind knowing your home is safe, your insurance remains valid, and the fitting warranty is secure in case of issues.

From a legal standpoint, changing a light fitting is non-notifiable work and can be carried out by an unregistered person, however building regulations must still be followed which include testing.

Legally, changing a light fitting doesn't require notification, but building regulations (including the requirements for electrical testing) must be followed.