Commercial Downlights

FAQs

How are commercial downlights different from residential downlights?

Design

Commercial downlights are designed with functionality in mind, focusing on providing efficient and widespread lighting in large spaces such as offices, stores, or warehouses. Residential downlights are typically designed with aesthetics in mind and are often used to enhance the ambience of living spaces.

Specialist protection

Commercial downlights are available in a variety of IP ratings for different uses. For instance, many commercial or industrial spaces require lighting with a higher IP rating for harsh environments where they may be exposed to water, dust or debris.

We also offer a fantastic range of fire rated downlights, ideal for helping to meet fire and safety regulations in your commercial space.

Light output and coverage

Commercial downlights are usually brighter and have a higher lumen output to ensure adequate illumination in large areas and are designed to provide uniform light distribution across wide spaces. Residential downlights often have lower lumen outputs, used for localised or accent lighting.

Installation and wiring

Commercial downlights are commonly installed in a grid pattern and require a higher level of expertise in terms of installation and wiring and are often integrated into a larger lighting system, such as a suspended ceiling grid. Residential downlights are generally installed individually and can be easily incorporated into standard residential electrical systems.

How do I choose the right commercial downlights for my space?

Lighting requirements

Consider factors such as the size of the area, desired light levels, and any specific tasks or activities that require focused lighting. Our range includes different types to choose from to suit your requirements, such as recessed downlights, fixed downlights and a variety of colour temperatures. For example, cool white is a popular colour temperature for commercial lighting as it is bright and modern, whereas domestic lighting traditionally features a warmer white for a cosier setting.

Energy efficiency

LED downlights are a popular choice due to their high energy efficiency, long lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements. Many commercial premises are upgrading their existing downlights to LEDs to make the most of their bright light, low maintenance and potential energy bill savings.

Durability

Commercial spaces often require lighting fixtures that can withstand frequent use and potentially harsh environments. Commercial downlights from leading brands typically feature robust construction and good heat dissipation capabilities.

Dimming and controls

Depending on the needs of your space, consider whether dimming capabilities or advanced lighting controls are necessary. These features can help tailor the lighting to specific tasks or create desired atmospheres.

Are there energy-efficient options for commercial downlights?

LED downlights are highly recommended for their energy efficiency. They consume significantly less energy compared to traditional lighting options like incandescent or fluorescent lights. LEDs also have a longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance costs.

What is the lifespan of commercial downlights?

The lifespan of commercial downlights can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the product, usage patterns, and environmental conditions. However, LED downlights generally have a longer lifespan compared to other lighting technologies. On average, LED downlights can last anywhere from 25,000 to 50,000 hours or more, which translates to several years of use in typical commercial settings.

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