How to correctly choose the right light fittings for your home in Leeds

What is the purpose and functionality of the room?

• Determine the primary purpose of the space (e.g., ambient lighting for a living room, under unit lighting for a kitchen).
• Consider the activities that will take place in the area and how lighting can enhance them.

The different lighting types

• Ambient Lighting: This type of lighting provides the overall lighting to a room. Examples might include chandeliers, recessed lights, and track lighting.
• Task Lighting: This more direct, focused lighting for specific activities such as reading or cooking. Examples might include pendant lighting or spot lighting above a desk and under-cabinet lighting in a kitchen.
• Accent Lighting: This is very similar to task lighting however this type of lighting might highlight features or objects in a room. Examples include wall sconces and picture lights.

Lighting fixture Styles and Designs

• There is so much to choose from using online lighting stores so have fun exploring various styles that could complement your homes aesthetic, whether it’s modern, traditional, industrial, or eclectic.
• Consider the size and scale of the lighting fixtures in relation to the room’s dimensions and ceiling height. There are many low hanging lights on the market at the minute and these are usually not suitable for rooms with low ceilings, which is the case in most UK homes. This means that the lighting cable length has to be shortened changing the aesthetic look and design of the light.

Energy Efficiency

• Make sure the lighting fixtures are energy-efficient fixtures, such as LED, to reduce electricity costs and environmental impact.
• Look for lights with energy efficiency ratings which are in the higher categories as these are most likely to consume the least electricity still giving out a great output of light.

Lighting Controls

• Now you want to think about your options for lighting controls, this might including dimmer switches, timers, and smart lighting systems, to customize the ambiance and save energy. Be careful when choosing lighting fixtures as some lights may not be compatible with certain lighting control products such as dimmers.
• You can also consider the compatibility with home automation systems for added convenience add functionality.

Budget Considerations

• Set a budget for your lighting project, considering both the upfront cost of fixtures and long-term energy savings. You also may want to add in the installation cost as some lighting fixtures may incur larger costs when it comes to installation, such as downlights being installed into a room where there are none.
• Balance quality and cost-effectiveness to ensure durable, reliable lighting fixtures within your budget constraints.

Installation and Maintenance

• You may need to consider the ease of installation and whether professional assistance may be required, especially for complex lighting fixtures or wiring.
• Factor in maintenance requirements, such as bulb replacement and cleaning, to keep your lighting fixtures looking and performing their best.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure that selected fixtures meet safety standards and regulatory requirements such as having a CE mark, BSEN number or IP rating, particularly for wet or damp locations like bathrooms and outdoor areas. With the rise of amazon we are now seeing cheap lighting products being bought through this website that are being made and shipped mostly from China. Many of these products are not meeting British standards and that could be putting you at risk of faulty electrical products
• Hire competent and registered electricians for installation to guarantee compliance with local building codes and safety protocols.

Remember, selecting the right lighting fixtures involves a balance of functionality, aesthetics, and efficiency. Take your time to research and explore options that best suit your homes unique needs and enhance its overall atmosphere. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our team of experts. We’re here to help illuminate your home brilliantly!