Complete Guide to LED Lighting for Your Home

LED lighting has revolutionised how we light our homes. It uses up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and lasts 25 times longer. But with so many options available, choosing the right LED can be confusing.

Why Choose LED?

LED bulbs consume just 8-12 watts compared to 60 watts for an incandescent bulb. They produce less heat, last up to 25,000 hours, and are available in every colour temperature from warm white to daylight. The initial cost is higher, but you save money within the first year.

Understanding Colour Temperature

Measured in Kelvin (K), colour temperature determines how warm or cool the light appears. 2700K gives a warm, cozy glow similar to traditional bulbs — ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. 4000K produces a neutral white light perfect for kitchens and offices. 5000-6500K mimics daylight and works best in garages, workshops, or bathrooms.

Choosing the Right Brightness

Brightness is measured in lumens, not watts. For a living room, aim for 300-500 lumens per square metre. Bedrooms need 100-300 lumens. Kitchens and work areas need 500-750 lumens. Always check the lumen output on the packaging.

Dimmable vs Non-Dimmable

Not all LEDs are dimmable. Check the packaging and make sure your dimmer switch is LED-compatible. Old dimmer switches designed for incandescent bulbs can cause flickering with LEDs.