How to choose lighting fixtures?

When choosing lighting, several important issues should be taken into account. The most important of these are the purpose and function of the rooms and the adjustment of the light intensity to the needs of users. These aspects are crucial to ensure the comfort and functionality of lighting in various spaces. The choice of appropriate lighting depends on how the room is used, which affects the required intensity and type of light so that it is optimal for the activities performed in it and the needs of the people using it.

What are lighting fixtures?

Commercially available lighting fixtures are devices used to properly mount one or more light sources and connect them to the electrical installation. This connection should be durable, but at the same time allow for easy replacement of the light source or the entire lamp in the event of wear or failure. Lighting fixtures also provide the appropriate direction for the light beam, dispersing the light or focusing it in a selected location.

An example is industrial luminaires for precise lighting of the work surface. Many of them allow you to change the direction of the light, such as desk lamps, which can be freely positioned. Some luminaires also allow you to change the color of the light, from a subtle modification of the color to giving it a completely different, saturated color for decorative purposes.

The functions of lighting fixtures go beyond the issues of installation, light direction and aesthetics. An important function is to protect the light source from mechanical damage. In homes, lampshades are used, and in industrial spaces, protection in the form of nets or cages covering the glowing parts, protecting them from potential damage. So what aspects should you pay attention to when choosing lighting fixtures?

Functionality of LED lighting fixtures

Generally speaking, it is recommended to install several light points in the room, because it allows for better control over the lighting and its functionality. In addition to ceiling lighting and wall lamps, it is worth using under-cabinet lighting and floor or table lamps. This solution allows you to separate different zones in the room and provides appropriate lighting in specific places, such as above the table, kitchen counter or by the mirror in the bathroom. Additionally, modern technology allows you to control the luminaires using a remote control or by installing motion detectors. For example, if you use the toilet at night, the light in the bathroom can turn on automatically, increasing the comfort and safety of use.

What is the intensity and color of light?

The different tasks of light points are also associated with different intensity of the light source, which changes depending on the activities performed in a given room. For example, a level of 300 lux is recommended for reading, but for more precise activities, such as sewing or gluing, 750 lux is needed. On the other hand, a much smaller amount of light is enough for resting or watching TV - from a dozen to several dozen lux. The use of different types of lamps allows you to adjust the amount and intensity of light to the different needs of household members. The color of light is also important - in houses and apartments, warm or neutral lighting works better, which does not irritate the eyes, while creating a cozy atmosphere.

Energy efficiency of LED lighting

Modern lighting should be characterized by low energy consumption and high efficiency. Consumers, who are increasingly aware of ecological issues, often pay attention to these parameters when choosing lighting. A popular type of energy-saving light source is LED diodes, which are gradually replacing traditional fluorescent lamps. Although they are usually slightly more expensive, they offer longer durability and greater efficiency, making them a more cost-effective choice in the long term.

Open lighting fixtures

In open lighting fixtures, the light source is not completely covered, which is a typical solution for models used in homes. They offer less safety, but inside the house it is usually not the most important aspect. The most important element of these fixtures is their aesthetic appearance, which is why manufacturers offer various types of fixtures. When choosing a specific model for an apartment, it is worth paying attention to its quality of workmanship and considering whether a hanging model or, for example, one recessed into a suspended ceiling will be better.

Closed lighting fixtures

In closed lighting fixtures, the light source is isolated from the surroundings, which provides a higher level of safety. The bulb is harder to break, and the installation cables are protected against changing weather conditions. Closed lighting fixtures are often hermetically sealed and are used in industry. Closed models protect not only against flooding or dust, but also often contain additional elements, such as motion sensors or twilight switches, which ensure their correct operation. Closed lighting fixtures are useful wherever it is necessary to protect the light source from dirt, moisture, rain or snow. In homes, they are most often used in the kitchen and bathroom.

Outdoor lighting fixtures - what to look for?

Specialists in the lighting industry emphasize that when choosing electrical products used outdoors, such as lighting fixtures, the most important thing is to maintain safety. Outdoor fixtures are exposed to contact with moisture, water, dust and dirt, which can cause internal damage to the light source. Therefore, when choosing fixtures for a terrace, balcony or garden, you should opt for products adapted to difficult outdoor conditions.

However, it should be remembered that not every product defined as an "external lighting fixture" will automatically meet the requirements for strength and safety. It is very important to check the IP marking, or International Protection Rating, which specifies the degree of protection of the electrical enclosure. The IP code consists of two digits following the letters IP, specifying the conditions in which the enclosure can be safely used.

Outdoor lighting fixtures should have a tightness class of no less than IP 44, which guarantees resistance to splashing water and the penetration of bodies with a diameter greater than 1 mm. In cases where the fixture is to be exposed to dust and dirt, it is worth considering buying a model with an IP marking starting with the number 5 or 6, which provides adequate protection against contamination or complete dust tightness.

Our store offers both indoor and outdoor lighting, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the entire range of lamps and fixtures