Replacing your low-voltage MR16 or GU10 halogen bulbs with dimmable LED GU10 spotlights will save money on your power bill, reduce your carbon footprint, and give you a product with a longer life. The following guide aims to help you become more energy-efficient.
Selecting the Best LED GU10 Halogen Replacements
Naturally, you want your new LED GU10 spotlight to give you the same bright light as your existing halogen GU10 bulb. In the early years of LED, light output was questionable, but due to advancements in technology, it’s fair to say that you can expect pretty much the same Lumen output from your LEDs without having to break the bank either.
Here is an at-a-glance table that shows the equivalent LED GU10 wattage:
Halogen GU10 | LED GU10 |
---|---|
30w | 3w |
40w | 4-6w |
60w | 6-8w |
75w | 8w |
100w | 12w |
Already know what you need? Check these out!
Can I Replace Bulbs Like-for-Like?
Can I Replace Like-for-Like Bulbs?
Quick Answer: Yes, you can replace bulbs like-for-like, but there are a few factors to consider for a seamless switch.
1 Detailed Explanation
When replacing bulbs, it's important to take into account two main factors:
A Bulb Type
- Halogen to LED: Most non-dimmable GU10 Halogen bulbs can be easily replaced with equivalent GU10 LEDs. This is because the electrical current conversion happens within the bulb itself.
- Dimmable Circuits: If you're using a dimmable halogen circuit and switch, ensure that the replacement LED bulb is also dimmable. Not all LED bulbs are compatible with dimmable circuits and may require additional components, like drivers, to convert AC current to DC.
2 Compatibility
- Socket and Fitting: Always check that the new bulb fits securely in your existing fittings. Different bulb types have varying base types and socket requirements.
- Electrical Load: Ensure that the electrical load of the new bulb matches or is lower than the original bulb to avoid any circuit issues.
Additional Considerations
- Color Temperature: LEDs offer a range of color temperatures, from warm white to cool white. Choose a color temperature that matches your preference and the ambiance you want to create.
- Lumen Output: LEDs are more efficient and can provide the same brightness (lumens) with lower wattage. Compare the lumen output of your current bulbs with the replacements to ensure consistent lighting levels.
Expert Advice
If you're unsure about which bulbs to choose or have concerns about compatibility with your existing fittings, please call us or consult with a qualified electrician. They can help clarify which bulbs are suitable and ensure a safe and effective lighting setup.
“We regularly update older halogen downlights with new LED downlights. We recommend clients do not overly rely on one form of lighting such as downlight and neglect other forms and positions of lighting.”
Claudia Interiors
Dimmer Switch Compatability
Buying a dimmable LED GU10 spotlight to replace a dimmable halogen GU10 doesn’t guarantee your current dimmer switch will work due to the vast difference in bulb wattage between the two technologies.
We have two great resources for you to read on this subject:
- The Best GU10 Dimmable LEDs – Learn about the differences between leading and trailing edge switches, check out our best sellers and the cost differences between dimmable and non-dimmable bulbs.
- Stopping your LEDs from flickering, buzzing, glowing and burning out - One of our most popular articles on the blog. Get everything you need to know before replacing your Halogen bulbs.
Our Best-Selling Halogen Replacements
Here are our current best-selling dimmable halogen replacement spotlights.
Dimmable GU10 LED's
Brand | Wattage | Colour | Lumens | Life Span (hrs) | Link |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Osram | 4.5w | 2700K | 350 | 15,000 | View Now |
Sylvania | 5w | 4000K | 345 | 25,000 | View Now |
Phillips | 3.7w | 2700K | 260 | 25,000 | View Now |
Energizer | 5.5w | 4000K | 350 | 15,000 | View Now |
AVSL | 6w | 6500K | 400 | 25,000 | View Now |
Osram | 8.3w | 2700K | 575 | 25,000 | View Now |
Non-Dimmable GU10 LED's
Brand | Wattage | Colour | Lumens | Life Span (hrs) | Link |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
JCB | 3w | 4000K | 250 | 10,000 | View Now |
Sylvania | 4.5w | 4000K | 345 | 15,000 | View Now |
Energizer | 4.2w | 4000K | 345 | 15,000 | View Now |
Energizer | 4.7w | 4000K | 350 | 15,000 | View Now |
JCB | 4.9w | 6500K | 370 | 10,000 | View Now |
Osram Ledvance | 6.9w | 2700K | 575 | 15,000 | View Now |