How LED Lights Work

The LED light bulb is known as an unsung hero in the world of lighting solutions. They feature in everything from digital locks, remote controls, watches and microwaves, and when grouped together they can create vast television screens and traffic lights. More recently they have been used in traditional light bulbs as a more energy-efficient way of lighting homes and businesses. Their eco-friendly credentials mean that they reduce power consumption whilst providing a brighter and more consistent light than their incandescent counterparts. This guide outlines exactly how the LED light bulb operates and why this is so effective for so many purposes throughout the home.

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are essentially very small light bulbs which fit easily into electrical circuits. They function entirely as a result of the movement of electrons in a semi-conductor material, which means they can easily surpass the life span of an incandescent bulb, which will work until the filament burns out. A diode is the simplest form of semi-conductor. It is a material which has varying ability to conduct electrical current. Semi-conductors which have abundant electrons are called N-type material; in this sort of conductor, free electrons move from a negatively charged are to one with a positive charge. P-type semi-conductors have extra holes in their make-up, and the extra positively charged particles it possesses can jump from one hole to another, effectively moving from a positively charged area to a negatively charged one. Diodes are a mix between N-type and P-type materials.

The interaction that is caused as a result of the electrons jumping between holes from negative to positive charges (and vice versa) creates light, and a viable lighting solution for homes and businesses. The process also emits significantly less heat than incandescent bulbs, which gives off light as a result of heating the filament to a high temperature.

LED light bulbs can be altered to vary the colour of the light. By changing the distance which the electrons have to leap, the colour of the light is altered. This is more useful in the red or green lights on alarm clocks, but with visible LEDs growing in popularity, there are steps being made to create the diodes that are infrared, ultraviolet and all of the colours of the spectrum in between.

The biggest problem currently faced by manufacturers creating LEDs for public use is the upfront costs. Currently, energy-efficient LEDs can cost around three times as much as a traditional incandescent bulb, but the life span and electricity savings that are facilitated by the energy-efficient lighting source mean that money is eventually saved in the long run. If customers are replacing bulbs for many fixtures at the same time, the initial outlay can be costly, but with LED production increasing and improving all the time, affordability will be one of the key areas they target in the future.

Battle Of The Christmas Lights

The friendly competition between neighbours that takes places every Christmas over who has the most extravagant or beautiful Christmas lights can now officially begin, with the beginning of December underway. Many streets or areas enjoy the yearly battle over whose display is the most original or whose arrangement can attract the most visitors. Just last year, a documentary was broadcast on Channel 4 which followed the lives of a number of people who throw themselves wholeheartedly into the spirit of the season, showing the real motives behind the extravagant decorations and the highs and lows that the Christmas period brings them. This guide runs down some of the most extravagant home light displays from across the world, and examines exactly how they achieved the desired effects.

1. Gangnam Christmas

This year, a man in Texas, USA, has kitted out his entire house with over 25,000 LED Christmas lights which are timed to the beat of the South Korean hit, Gangnam Style. The display, which lasts for the entirety of the four-minute song, is timed to perfect and features rippling effects and blackouts, all with a classy blue and white theme. The man behind the display, John Storms, has told a radio station in Texas that due to the cost-effective nature of the LED light bulbs he has used, the entire display will cost just $15 to run for the entire month of December.

2. ‘Ditto!’

Across the country in Chicago, Illinois, an inventive homeowner thought outside the box in order to produce a brilliantly eye-catching display. Every year, Chet Cybulski is renowned in his neighbourhood for producing incredible Christmas light displays which draw visitors from all over the state, but his next-door neighbour, Dave Nosek is attracting all the plaudits for his original take on the tradition. Where Mr Cybulski has a display which takes a staggering five days to assemble, Mr Nosek simply wrote the word ‘DITTO’ in light above his garage, with an illuminated arrow pointing to his neighbour’s more impressive achievement.

3. Somerset Winter Wonderland

After being inspired by some incredible displays on a visit to the USA, Paul Toole from Somerset decided to create a similar winter wonderland in his own home as well as raising money for charity. With a total spend of £20,000 since he first started decorating his bungalow in 1998, Mr Toole calibrates his displays so that they flash in time to his own radio station and also gives any donates he receives to the Make A Wish Foundation. More than 50,000 LED Christmas lights are attuned to flicker on and off to the beat of a song, and the display has become so popular that his last switch-on was attended by 1,000 people, as well as Only Fools and Horses legend John Challis.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Combat Festive Price Hikes With Energy-Saving Light Bulbs

A rise in energy prices now occurs so frequently that it is almost a Christmas tradition in itself. British Gas has announced that millions of their customers will face a 7% energy hike just in time for the festive season, adding around £1.50 to the average weekly gas and electricity bill. The price hike kicks into gear on December 10^th, just in time for the festive season, and traditionally the time when many homeowners start to utilise the most electricity, what with the extra Christmas lights and the colder weather. Wholesale prices are said to have risen by 25% since spring this year, and those who are with British Gas will surely be looking for any possible way in which they can cut back their energy bills over this expensive Christmas period.

Fitting the home with energy-saving light bulbs before the festive season kicks in is a great way to ensure that there won’t be any nasty shocks where energy bills are concerned. However, with a hundred and one things to do before the 25^th December, is there really time to completely change the lighting solutions within a home? The answer where energy-saving light bulbs are concerned is yes. One of the most prevalent myths in relation to switching to energy-saving lighting methods is that all existing fixtures must be taken out, re-wired and re-fitted. This is completely untrue; Energy Saving GLS Bulbs all use the conventional Edison Screw Caps or Bayonet Caps, and are completely compatible with the majority of existing fixtures already within the home. Just one 11-watt GLS bulb will see a huge reduction in energy consumption, with 80% less energy used to create the same amount of light as a harmful halogen bulb.

Using a dimmable bulb is also a superb way to save money on energy bills. Sometimes during the morning or the evening, having a light blasting at full power does not produce an energy-friendly environment but using a Dimmable Energy Saving Light Bulb ensures that consumers have total control over the amount of light they are using. The savings can also be incredible when using these innovative bulbs, with predications estimating that around £194.20 in average electricity bills can be saved over the lifespan of just one dimmable bulb.

There are also some festive options for those who want to decorate their home ready for Christmas but don’t want to pay over the odds in doing so. Features such as solar panels powering outdoor lights can help to minimise energy consumption, as well as bulbs like the Energy Saving Coloured Spiral Light Bulb. A red or a yellow bulb placed in any normal fixture creates a festive Christmassy glow when placed in an alcove or even on a front porch, and with projected savings of around £51.00 per bulb over its lifespan, they are perfect to combat the harmful energy price hikes this Christmas.

Host A Switch-On Worthy Of Any Celebrity This Christmas

Artists such as Robbie Williams, McFLY, The Wanted and JLS have been confirmed to be switching on the public Christmas lights up and down the country in huge extravaganzas over the coming weeks. In some of the country’s biggest cities, such as London, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol and Birmingham, some of the UK’s biggest stars will be welcomed and will put on a spectacular show before they press the all-important button that switches on the festive decorations for the remainder of the Christmas period.  Many people around the home might decide to host their own Christmas light switch-on over the coming weeks, as they complete their traditional decorative displays and turn them on for the first time. BLT Direct is a premier provider of lighting solutions that can outshine any celebrity switch-on ceremony, with low prices to fit festive budgets, and high-quality that will last for many winters to come.

One of the most popular ways to form the basis of a large display is to line windows, fences and other vertical surfaces with Snowing Outdoor Icicle Lights, which have an authentic Christmas look when turned to any of their different settings. Pulsating at different speeds or simply remaining static, these lights are perfect to boost Christmas spirit and their neutral white colour won’t clash with more colourful elements of the display. These chains of lights come in sets of up to 720 bulbs, so they can practically cover the entirety of the outside of a house or other building, and they are perfectly appropriate for outdoor usage. Prices at BLT Direct start at just £29.99.

To bring a little Christmas cheer to the inside of the home and continue the theme of a display on the transition from outdoor to indoor, swapping some of the regular bulbs around the house with a Coloured GU10 LED Bulb is a cost-effective solution. These bulbs don’t require any extra fittings or fixtures, and adding a warm red light or a warm yellow glow to the area around a Christmas tree, or in a hallway, can give a home a much more festive feel. These bulbs are also great for energy-saving; running costs compared to GU10 halogen bulbs are down by around 80%, so the electricity bills need not be sky-high this Christmas season. The GU10 LED bulbs start from just £5.99 at BLT Direct.

Not everyone has the time to produce a show-stopping lighting display at Christmas, but there are more subtle ways in which the festive season can be referenced in the home. Candle Bridge Arch Lights are a wonderfully understated way to decorate a mantelpiece, a windowsill or a dining table this Christmas. There are plenty of different varieties to choose from, in varying colours, shapes and sizes, but all of them are a stylish and simplistic way to add to festive decorations. Prices start at just £9.90 for a seven-bulb arch.

Enjoy The Halloween Scare-Fest with BLT Direct

There are just weeks to go until the annual season of trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving and an abundance of fake blood, and BLT Direct is gearing up for this year’s Halloween spectacular with a range of dramatic light bulbs to create spooky effects around the home or workplace. Whether hosting a party or simply looking for ways to make the event more exciting for trick-or-treaters, the carefully chosen selection of flickering candle bulbs and blacklights help to set the scene for the so-called witching hour, and help everyone truly get into the spirit of this lighthearted tradition.

Simply changing light bulbs is a great way to completely change the atmosphere of a room, and with LED GU10 Light Bulbs already being compatible with many of the existing fittings and fixtures around the home, switching them for coloured alternatives can help to create a truly eerie setting. Green and magenta clash perfectly and summon to mind images of zombies and ghost trains, while ultraviolet lights can use glow-in-the-dark capabilities to create spooky patterns on walls and ceilings. All of the coloured LED GU10 bulbs available from BLT Direct have a reputed lamp life of up to 50,000 hours, meaning that they will not only come in handy for this Halloween, but many ghostly celebrations for years to come.

Flicker Flame Incandescent Light Bulbs are particularly suited to creating atmospheric lighting, and the constant judder and shiver of these fake flames are sure to set anybody on edge this Halloween. These bulbs are available with a variety of different bases so no costly modifications need to be made to existing fittings to accommodate these spine-chilling lights bulbs, and they are particularly effective when the bulb is exposed. At just £3.36 per bulb, with an expected life span of up to 1,000 hours, they are a budget-friendly way to convert a standard room or corridor into a flickering passage of terror, and they will last for the entirety of the spooky season.

For those who want to get into the spirit of Halloween, but are concerned about the costly energy bills that they might be unpleasantly surprised with, there are energy-saving options that can turn any home or workplace into a veritable haunted house. The Energy-Saving Blacklights available from BLT Direct come in a variety of different wattages and are predicted to save consumers around £58.50 over the course of their life span. The special dark blue filter creates a truly macabre effect, and simply using one of these bulbs within a porch or hallway can give trick-or-treaters the sense that this house might be one to avoid in the future.

Low-Level Lighting For Beautifully Decorative Effect – BLT Direct

BLT Direct is a foremost provider of inexpensive and highly efficient lighting solutions to homes and businesses across the UK. But whilst the main function of light bulbs is undoubtedly illumination, there are many bulbs which are used for purely decorative purposes; the Timeless Elegance range at BLT Direct is testament to the way bulbs can create a charmingly atmospheric environment with ease. Technological advancements in previous years have even made these primarily decorative bulbs function as effectively as those which are used solely for their illuminative merits, so using them for feature lighting needn’t sacrifice on quality.

The incandescent light bulbs in the Timeless Elegance range are available in varying different shapes and sizes, from golfball lamps to candle-shaped bulbs. The unique advantage these bulbs have over many other decorative solutions is the smoked glass; the filament lamp produces a stunning, flickering effect that adds a sense of ambience and atmosphere that many plain bulbs cannot achieve. They are best used in environments where a full level of light is not necessary, such as perhaps in a wall lamp in a living room, for use during the evening when a bright light might be deemed harsh. They are wonderful for use in chandeliers, or light fittings that might feature more than one bulb, as grouping a number of these bulbs together will not create an overbearing light, but rather a soft and warm glow.

The bulbs are either 25-watt or 35-watt and their variations on the Edison Screw cap means that they are a great fit for any existing fittings around the home, or in a commercial environment. Businesses such as restaurants and hotels might find great use for these bulbs in creating an inviting setting for their customers and guests, while specific showrooms could also benefit from the attractive, flickering illumination which calls to mind real candles; a hard effect to achieve when using LED light bulbs or some of the newer energy-saving models. The bulbs themselves are fully dimmable, if the right dimmer switch is installed, and can be used to create even lower levels of feature lighting.

The active life span of these incandescent light bulbs is around 1,000 hours, and their colour temperature is rated ‘gold’. Each lamp shape gives a completely different effect, whether it’s the ‘globe’ shaped bulb, or the ‘twisted candle’ bulb. The bulbs are also available in a conventional GLS shape, for the fixtures or fitting which can’t quite accommodate a bulb in an unconventional shape. BLT Direct’s extensive collection of these decorative filament bulbs starts at just £4.50 per bulb.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Intensity Measurement Tool Paves Way For More Commercial LEDs

The Missouri University of Science and Technology have recently developed a new piece of equipment which can quickly and easily measure the intensity of LED lights bulbs. The laser-guided instrument enables the intensity to be measured from a distance, which will be revolutionary for the introduction of LED bulbs into public places. In the UK, many councils have started to fit the light-emitting diodes into street lights, with Bath and North East Somerset Council pioneering the scheme in 2011, and the brightness of LEDs has already seen them implemented into traffic light and pelican crossing systems. This new technology will encourage councils and authorities to fit the energy-saving bulbs across many cities and motorways, as it will be easier for maintenance workers to detect when a bulb needs replacing.

LED light bulbs are one of the most popular energy-saving lighting methods around today. They consume a vastly smaller amount of electricity to produce a higher level of light than the traditional halogen bulbs that the public have become most accustomed to. They are available in an extensive range of colour temperatures, wattages, shapes and sizes, and it is widely said that there is an LED bulb for almost any purpose, be it commercial or domestic.

Unlike traditional halogen bulbs, which give no indication that they are about to stop working, LED bulbs slowly dim over the course of their (considerably longer) life span. This means that the process of replacing roadside, streetside, traffic light bulbs or any other form or commercial lighting will be much easier and cheaper than simply sending out a maintenance truck to replace a single bulb. Technicians will no longer have to use a cherry picker truck to carry out the sometimes dangerous checks, diversions will no longer need to be set up to avoid motorists from injuring a maintenance worker, and councils will be able to develop a scheduled replacement system based on data taken from the new intensity measuring equipment. 

Dr Suzanna Long, of Missouri University of Science and Technology, said: “In many of the nation's traffic lights, light-emitting diodes or LEDs with their brighter light and longer life have replaced standard bulbs. But knowing when to replace the signal heads has remained a guessing game," Dr. Long added. She hopes that the new system will be wheeled out across Missouri first, before governments and authorities across the world begin to examine the advantages of the equipment.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

OSRAM Range Updated at BLT Direct

BLT Direct is one of the UK’s foremost suppliers of lighting solutions for a whole manner of functions and purposes. Their range of inexpensive and high-quality products is widely considered one of the best in the country, with their commitment to technological advancements in everyday lighting concerns evident for all to see. This ethos is clear in their recent renewal of their OSRAM light bulb section. A prestigious and respected lighting brand, OSRAM is a world leader in lighting for all purposes, both domestic and commercial, and their newly extended range at BLT Direct reflects the diversity and functionality of both companies.

The globally operating company has over one hundred years of experience in providing lighting solutions, and understands that their customers wish for flexible, versatile bulbs with which to illuminate their homes and businesses. The range of OSRAM bulbs includes halogen bulbs, compact fluorescents, metal halides and standard fluorescents, and all of the light bulbs are available in a selection of different shapes, wattages and with varying bases.

The compact fluorescent lamps now available from BLT Direct are ‘multitube’ lamps, and are therefore more efficient than those with a single tube. In line with OSRAM’s environmentally responsible policies, the bulbs last up to twenty times longer than a conventional light bulb, whilst consuming around 80% less energy. These bulbs are used mostly in public buildings and commercials areas, as they are perfect for decorative and feature lighting. Restaurants, offices, hotels, storerooms and sports arenas have all seen the benefits of using these lamps, and with wattages ranging from 5w to 80w and six different colour temperatures to choose from, there is an OSRAM fluorescent lamp for every purpose.

As well as compact fluorescent lamps, BLT Direct also has a collection of OSRAM halogen bulbs, which are ideal for similar commercial purposes. These halogen bulbs are available in linear and tubular shapes, with reflectors and spotlights also popular with many commercial clients. The Small Bayonet Cap and Edison Screw bases are compatible with a great number of existing fixtures so there is no need for a full-scale overhaul of lighting systems, whilst more specific bases such as the G4 and GY4 are also available for companies with more specialist needs for their bulbs.

The range of OSRAM control gear has also been revamped at BLT Direct; their range of ballasts is more varied than ever before, with dimmable ballasts now available. Used to keep current at a safe and practical level in environments where stable currents are not always easy to maintain, the ballast range by OSRAM can meet a whole variety of control gear requirements. The benefits of using a ballast to control current within a circuit include less flickering as a result of power surges, and reduced running costs; something all businesses will surely find a huge advantage.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Consumer Reports Finds LED Bulbs Come Out On Top

A test by Consumer Reports in the USA has found that, although the majority of consumers in America are using CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) in their homes, LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are the better choice in the long-run. Despite their higher price tag, the research recommended LED bulbs to American citizens and states that “LEDs have some real advantages”. Figures are similar in the UK; many households still use incandescent light bulbs, but with the last phase of the EU ban now in place, mass switching to LED bulbs is taking place, and many are discovering these advantages for themselves.

 Unlike many older bulbs, LED lamps do not have a filament, which means they cannot burn out and they don’t produce any wasteful heat energy. The illumination is caused solely by the movement of electrons within a semi-conductor, typically aluminium-gallium-arsenide. As a result of this, LEDs have higher luminous efficiency than halogen or incandescent bulbs, which required high levels of heated metal to become illuminated. These older bulbs generated a lot of useless heat energy, making the electricity demands unnecessarily high. The lack of heat output in the LED light bulbs means that the electricity consumed can go directly to creating light energy rather than creating heat for the purpose of creating light.  

 The report in the US also remarked that, although LED bulbs cost slightly more than halogen bulbs, the money is well-invested as they last much longer. With life spans of up to 50,000 hours (possible usage of over 20 years when used for an average of 6 hours per day), the initially higher investment when purchasing an LED bulb results in very high savings. These savings manifest themselves, both in outright savings on purchasing less replacement bulbs, and also in energy and electricity costs; a standard 4-watt LED GU10 light bulb can save the average household around £135.00 over the course of its considerable lifespan, and will produce the same level of illumination as a 40-watt bulb.

 Many of the consumers interviewed before the report expressed concern about switching to LED bulbs because of the myth that they produce a cold and stark light which doesn’t create an inviting home environment. However, the report found this was a false allegation. "We found that some LEDs have the same warm glow as incandescent," said Consumer Reports’ Dan DiCerico after the research was published. Available in attractive colour temperatures such as Warm White and Daylight, LED bulbs are fast losing their ‘bleak and cold’ tag and are becoming favourites for those attempting to create a cosy and appealing domestic atmosphere.

 To find out more about LED and other light bulbs and to order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

New Range of GU10 LED Bulbs from BLT Direct

BLT Direct, one of the country’s foremost providers of lighting solutions, has released an extensive new range of GU10 light bulbs, designed specifically to create perfect illumination levels in and around the home. The High Output LED GU10 light bulbs range from 4.5 watts to 6 watts and are considered to be the perfect replacement for their predecessors, the standard halogen GU10 bulb, which are increasingly being seen as unfavourable, old-fashioned and inefficient.. Available as single bulbs or within boxes of ten, these next-generation bulbs offer the highest levels of illumination with the lowest energy consumption and can be used in all domestic situations.

The LED GU10 light bulbs consist of three high-powered LED lights, all inside one frosted cover, creating an incredibly high level of illumination. The principal role of a GU10 LED light bulb is to save energy. Using a maximum of 6 watts per bulb, these bulbs far excel the credentials of their older counterparts, the halogen bulbs, which use around 50 watts of energy to create the same amount of, if not less, illumination. A 4.5 watt LED GU10 light bulb is proven to produce the same amount of light output as a 42-watt halogen GU10 bulb.  The direct comparisons between the two bulbs see savings of up to 90% on energy consumption, and the contrast is even more stark when this is converted into basic electricity costs per household; using average electricity rates and the standard life span of an LED GU10 bulb, it is calculated that one bulb can save a household around £135.00 in energy bills over the course of its life span. Their life span averages at around 30,000 hours per bulb, which, if used for around 6 hours per day, would last for more than 13 years in total.

Versatility is also among the advantages of these brand new bulbs. The two-pin base means that these bulbs are direct retrofit bulbs, and they will plug straight into the corresponding existing fittings already positioned around the home. They require no transformer or LED driver, and are ready to use from the word ‘go’. This makes them perfect for all existing fittings and fixtures around the home, be it in a bathroom or a study, a kitchen or a garage. The bulbs are available in two shades, Warm White and Daylight, both of which offer attractive, cosy illumination ideal for creating a warm and inviting domestic environment. A basic 4.5-watt High Output LED GU10 light bulb from BLT Direct starts at just £7.99, with boxes of 10 available for £74.99.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Tridonic Products Updated at BLT Direct

As one of the country’s leading suppliers of lighting solutions, BLT Direct pride themselves on being able to offer cutting-edge technology for both homes and businesses. Their long-standing commitment to providing the most effective, inexpensive and technologically advanced products is more evident than ever in their Tridonic Atco Ballast section, which is in the process of being updated to ensure customers can browse the most up-to-the-minute products.

Ballasts are used to stabilise and limit the amount of current in an electrical circuit. When a device possesses negative resistance to the supply, it will continue to draw increased current from the mains until it is causes the power supply to fail, or until the device itself is destroyed. Ballasts are used to counteract this, providing positive resistance which keeps the current at a safe and practical level. From the most basic of series resistors, commonly used within LEDs, to computerised, electronic-controlled ballasts now used mostly with fluorescent lamps on a large scale, ballasts are complex devices. The Tridonic Atco Ballasts available from BLT Direct can meet all control gear requirements. Variants available from BLT Direct include High Frequency Ballasts, Compact HF Ballasts and Digital Electronic Ballasts, guaranteeing that all briefs are catered for.

The Tridonic 2D Pro High Frequency Ballasts are single lamp applications, and are among the most advanced ballasts available from BLT Direct. Intended for use with DD fluorescent lamps, these ballasts allow a continuous and constant lighting output, regardless of any fluctuations in mains voltage. They are ideal for use in emergency lighting situations, where the lamp will need to remain at a constant brightness irrespective of voltage variations. They are available in three different wattages (28w, 38w and 55w) and have a nominal lifetime usage of up to 50,000 hours.

Alongside the range of Tridonic ballasts, BLT Direct is updating its selection of converters, transformers, ignitors and inverters, all of which fulfil similar roles to the lighting ballasts.  The Tridonic Super Imposed Pulse Ignitors are available in both standard and timed versions, and boast shorter restart times and automatic reset functions, ideal for situations where lighting systems are needed 24 hours a day, such as tunnels, mines, factories or warehouses. Tridonic Transformers are intended for use with low-voltage halogen lamps and function by adapting the mains voltage to 12v, with both electronic and magnetic versions available, whilst their Tridonic Atco TALEXXconverter Constant Voltage Converters help to regulate the current in constant voltage LED applications.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

BLT Direct Launches New YouTube Channel

Since the early days of the internet, BLT Direct has been supplying light bulbs, lamps and tubes to customers throughout the UK. As one of the first online sellers of such items, the company carved themselves a niche in the market and soon established themselves as a leading retailer. BLT Direct has this week showed its innovation once more, launching a brand new YouTube channel, which features a range of informative videos about the range of products they have on offer. The channel has been launched so that customers can learn more about the light bulbs that they’re purchasing, and so that frequently asked questions regarding important topics such as bulb bases and colour temperatures can be answered.

Measuring light is not something that can generally be done through a still picture and a product description, and so this YouTube channel is essential for customers who wish to get an idea of the brightness or colour temperature of their purchase before they order it. The videos help to create as close to a ‘try before you buy’ system as humanly possible across the internet, by showing direct comparisons between bulbs when they’re illuminated so that customers can be sure that they’re ordering the one which will best suit their needs. 

Some of the videos viewable on the YouTube channel are also short informational films about vital aspects of buying light bulbs. Bulb bases are a notoriously tricky area to grasp for those who don’t proclaim themselves to be experts in the field of lighting solutions, and BLT Direct’s useful video guide to bulb bases provides a basic and thorough education in the space of just three minutes. The moving images are combined with captions and static text to ensure that the message is well and truly received by all viewers. 

There is also a guide to colour temperatures for those who are unfamiliar. Many of the product pages listed at BLT Direct describe a bulb’s colour temperature as ‘daylight’ or ‘warm white’, and for those who have always used the traditional ‘pearl’ incandescent light bulbs, these new shades can be difficult to imagine. The colour temperature guide video explains the history of the ‘kelvin’ scale and the colour temperature of a naked flame, before describing the ways in which advanced technology can artificially replicate the naked flame with electricity. There is then a short demonstration of the difference between ‘warm white’, ‘cool white’ and ‘daylight’ temperatures, simultaneously communicating the advantages of each one, and describing the situations each colour temperature is most suited to.  

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Stock Up Or Switch – Incandescent vs Fluorescent

Legislation by the EU, which was first passed in 2008, will enter its final phase on September 1st 2012, as the manufacture and importation of all incandescent light bulbs will cease around Europe. The old bulbs are being phased out as part of a scheme to encourage the public to favour the more energy-efficient lighting solutions which have hit the market in the past decade. Whilst it won’t be illegal for shops to stock the remainder of them, all production of the filament bulbs will halt, and in the week leading up to the deadline, many customers are stocking up on what is left of the old incandescent bulbs, or starting to plan their switch to more energy-saving alternatives.

As the EU encourages the public to favour fluorescent over incandescent, many are unwilling to part with the soft, atmospheric glow that the traditional 60-watt and 100-watt bulbs emit. BLT Direct is a UK supplier of lighting solutions for a whole manner of purposes, and they still have significant stock of these older bulbs. The GLS 100-Watt Pearl Light Bulb is a convenient, comfortable old favourite with many; unlike some energy-saving bulbs, which take a few seconds to reach full illumination, the incandescent bulbs reach their maximum brightness immediately, and the flattering pearl colour has been a permanent fixture in many homes for years. The Bayonet Cap is one of the most popular and enduring bases, ensuring that the bulb will fit all the old fittings and fixtures, and  though their lifespan may be significantly shorter, these bulbs cost less upfront than their energy-saving descendants.

The Energy Saving GLS Bulbs are considered to be a direct replacement for the incandescent bulbs, and they all come with traditional Edison Screw Caps or Bayonet Caps to make the transition from incandescent to fluorescent as seamless as possible. The energy-efficient models, which are at the forefront of the market now, help customers to see huge reductions in energy bills, and the statistics regarding their energy consumption are impressive. A standard energy-saving 11-watt GLS bulb can see an incredible 90% decrease in UV output, with similar figures in reducing heat and energy consumption. Where the ‘pearl’ colour was favoured in the case of the older bulbs, their newer versions come in more natural shades which include ‘warm white’ and even ‘daylight’. Making the switch to energy-saving bulbs needn’t be the daunting task some may consider it to be; the developments in lighting solutions over the past few years have helped to make the conversion simple, easy and perhaps most importantly, cost-effective.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Replicate Opening Ceremony Drama With LED Light Bulbs

The London Olympic Games Opening Ceremony last week was an event which certainly showcased the best of British, with nods to music, film and literature that sent messages about British heritage right across the world. But some of the most spectacular moments of the 90-minute extravaganza were the parts which showcased the best in modern light bulb technology. Angelic winged figures on bicycles lit up the darkened arena with lights in their wings, dimmable LED lights were used as the nurses of the NHS put children to sleep in their beds, and LED lights fitted to each seat helped to turn the entire stadium into a digital explosion of light and colour. 

Almost all of the special effects carried out in the ceremony were down to the LED light, a relatively modern invention which proves how far lighting technology has come since the days of the energy-wasting incandescent bulb. BLT Direct is a leading UK supplier of light bulbs for both domestic and commercial settings, and though an eruption of dramatic, coloured light such as the one in the Olympic stadium cannot be promised, the LED light bulbs available will illuminate any home or business with energy-saving ease.

When not being used to dazzle the world in spectacular Olympic ceremonies, LED bulbs are great alternatives to the incandescent bulbs which were used in homes and businesses for many years, production of which is slowly halting because of their energy-guzzling reputation. The LED GU10 5-Watt Warm White Bulb is the lowest cost, highest power GU10 LED bulb available from BLT Direct, producing the same amount of light as a 50-watt halogen bulb. No transformers are needed, and no alterations need to be made to existing fittings to accommodate these bulbs; they fit into any existing sockets easily so the savings can commence straight away.

These bulbs are also available in a dimmable format, with similar wattage use and the same high levels of illumination when at full power. These types of bulbs were used in the Opening Ceremony at the moment when the children were being put to bed, and the Philips Master GU10 LED Dimmable 7-Watt Bulbs are ideal for use in a similar situation around the home. Their super-efficiency means that, based on average electricity prices in the UK, savings across the long life span of these bulbs can hit more than £232.00. Many in this day and age are concerned about the environment, and this bulb can satisfy their environmental concerns as well as their budgets; the savings in electricity equate to an 80% reduction in overall energy output, reducing emissions and wasteful heat energy. The Olympic Ceremony was vast and impressive, but green credentials were not ignored in the planning of this remarkable event, and their use of LED bulbs showed commitment to the environment as well as to putting on an outstanding show.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Market Leading Bulbs From Megaman and BLT Direct

BLT Direct is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of lighting solutions used in both domestic and commercial settings, and has built a strong reputation for providing the best energy saving bulbs around at some of the lowest prices. The Megaman range of bulbs is one of their leading products and consistently achieves the best results in both energy saving and lighting output. This extensive range covers all of the most popular bulb bases, and there is a vast array of different wattages, shapes, colours and functions.

The Megaman LED GU10 4.5 Watt in Warm White is BLT Direct’s current market leading bulb, boasting incredible energy-saving statistics as well as long life span and high lumens. This bulb can achieve 40-watt equivalence from just 4.5 watts, and possesses many other advantages over standard halogen or competing LED light bulbs. The 30,000 hour life span surpasses almost any bulb currently on the market, the warm white colour tempe rature is bright and inviting and the 2-pin base fits many existing fittings in homes or businesses. Perhaps the most astounding statistic is the potential electricity savings; in the life span of one of these bulbs, prospective savings stand at £145.80 per bulb – huge savings considering the prices of the bulbs. Just one of these bulbs is available for £8.99, savings of 36% on the recommended retail price, or a box of ten is available priced at £84.99, taking savings to almost 40%.

In Megaman’s premium range, there is a wide selection of dimmable light bulbs, which contribute even further to energy-saving and an environmentally-friendly approach. The flicker-free operation provides smooth and consistent lighting, whether it is lit at 10% or 100%, and the GU10 base will be familiar to many who already use dimmers in the home. Great for creating mood lighting or for use in rooms where it can be combined with natural daylight, these dimmable bulbs are available from BLT Direct for just £12.99.

Also featuring in the premium range is the Megaman Energy Saving GU10 11-Watt Bulb, which is predicted to amass £88.20 worth of savings across its considerable 15,000 hour life span. Among the most environmentally-friendly bulbs available from BLT Direct, this ‘green’ lighting solution has a 117 degree beam angle and is best used for feature lighting or as a spotlight. With savings of 37% on recommended retail price when purchased from BLT Direct, and likely savings of almost £90, these bulbs are more of an investment than a purchase.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Specialist Lighting For Both Homes And Businesses

BLT Direct is one of the UK’s premier providers of lighting solutions in both commercial and domestic settings, and their extensive range of light bulbs, fittings and fixtures has met the needs of homes and businesses across the country. Their stocks of energy-saving light bulbs and their range of LED lamps are both extensive, but BLT Direct also has a selection of specialist light fittings which take care of those with more exclusive criteria. From illuminated fire exit signs for use within businesses, to downlighters and bathroom fixtures which can be used within a home, BLT Direct takes care of all illumination essentials.

Insect-O-Cutor units are designed for use within warehouses and all areas where food or sterile products are prepared. Abattoirs, fast food outlets, packing plants and breweries all make use of these expert fly killers, and BLT Direct has a vast selection of sizes and intensities with something for every purpose. The White and Stainless Insect-O-Cutor Electric Units are designed for retail areas such as kitchens and warehouses; the White units specialise in small retail kitchens, while the Stainless units cover a larger area and are best used in warehouses or factories. BLT Direct also has a range of Glue Board Units available, which masquerade as a traditional light fitting and can be used in restaurant lobbies, bars or dining areas, where a traditional Insect-O-Cutor might seem unsightly and put off customers. A basic unit from the White range starts at just £85.95.

The bathroom lighting products available from BLT Direct are great for use within a home or within a commercial situation such as a hotel or a restaurant. From art deco wall lights to backlit bathroom mirrors, all bathrooms can be lit stylishly and effectively. The Grantley Bathroom Wall Light is a simple and high-quality light fitting which should only be used in a situation where it won’t come into contact with any water (making it unsuitable for use within a home shower room, but perfect for a public restroom). These 40-watt lights are priced at just £39.98, a saving of 18% on the recommended retail price.

Downlighters are a great way for both homes and businesses to create mood lighting; many homes have followed the trend of using downlighting within bedrooms or kitchens, whilst companies who own showrooms or retail outlets use them to emphasise products of note. BLT Direct’s selection of downlighters includes models specifically designed for use within saunas, steam rooms and bathrooms, and come in attractive finishes of brass, white and chrome. 

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Home Safety & Security – Timed Lights & Savings

The school holidays are fast approaching and within the next few weeks, schools and colleges across the country will break up until September. This is traditionally the time when many families plan their summer holidays so as not to miss out on any term time; be it the customary two weeks in a family-friendly resort, or something more spectacular like a safari or skiing holiday. Whilst families are away, homes are left unattended for long periods of time, and many homeowners like to put their lights on a timer whilst they’re away, to make it look as though the house is in use and deter burglars from breaking in. For anyone intending to use this method of home security, it is worth investing in some energy-saving light bulbs, which can be left on for long periods of time whilst reducing electricity bills and minimising harmful gas emissions. BLT Direct’s extensive selection of lighting solutions includes many low-energy alternatives to the conventional halogen bulbs, and come with a range of bases to accommodate all fittings and fixtures.

One of the most popular energy-saving lighting solutions, and one which is perfect for this kind of task, is the Energy Saving GU10 Light Bulb. Generally considered to be the direct and most practical alternative to the halogen bulbs which are still used in many homes, these GU10 bulbs manage to be highly luminous whilst consuming comparatively small amounts of energy. Energy savings when using these bulbs can reach 80% on standard electricity bills, making them perfect for adding to a timer in a lounge or a hallway for the duration of a holiday. The bulbs start at just £3.99 each, or £34.99 for a box of ten.

Many people have already contemplated the switch to energy-saving lighting solutions, but are put off by the idea that they may have to re-wire or replace their existing lighting fixtures. This myth is put to bed with the popular Energy Saving GLS Bulbs, which all come fitted with the traditional Edison Screw or Bayonet Cap bases. The majority of homes are already completely kitted out with fixtures that will accommodate these bulbs, making the switch to these inexpensive and environmentally-friendly alternatives easier and cheaper than remaining with the expensive incandescent range. With prices starting at just £1.49 per bulb, and savings over the lifespan of a bulb estimated at around £45.00, there is no time like the present to start saving and prepare for the holidays.

Using a dimmable bulb is also a great way to save money when planning to use bulbs for a long period of time. As illumination won’t be an issue when the family are on holiday, setting a dimmable bulb to be turned on at quite a low level is still a great way to deter burglars and ensure the safety of an empty home. Dimmable Energy Saving Light Bulbs need no additional fixtures or fittings, and are compatible with any existing dimmers that a home may have. Based on 7 hours of usage per day, these bulbs can last for a fantastic 25 years, and over the course of this incredibly long life span, the estimate saving on electricity bills can reach almost £200.00. These bulbs are available to purchase from BLT Direct priced at just £14.99, and are a sound investment for this summer holiday and many to come in the future.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com

Outdoor Lighting Solutions – For When Summer Finally Arrives

It comes as no great surprise to anyone that the Great British summer is yet to really kick in. Plans for garden parties and barbecues have been shelved for the time being, while the UK enjoys one of the wettest months since records began. We are assured that there will eventually be some warmer weather on the horizon, and when it does decide to eventually arrive, it is important to be absolutely ready to fire up that barbecue and invite everybody over. Whilst the weather is so dull, it might be advantageous to consider a new outdoor lighting arrangement, to prepare for those balmy summer evenings that we are promised for the future. BLT Direct is a specialist provider of such lighting solutions, and has a selection of outdoor lighting options that will illuminate any patio, decking or garden area.

BLT Direct’s Solar 120 LED White Multi Action Kit is a fantastic way to provide illumination for an outdoor space. This energy-saving kit ticks all the boxes; its solar powered methods are easy on both the energy bills and the environment, and the charming white LED lights can be strung around a parasol, throughout a gazebo or along a fence for a beautiful and chic look. The multi-action facility can add a little interest, and the generous 14 metres of wire ensures that the kit will stretch to span the average decking area or patio. This great energy-saving solution to an outdoor lighting problem is available for just £16.59, a saving of 45% on the RRP.

Ground lights are another exceptional way to brighten an outdoor seating area, and can also be used to highlight particular features of a garden. They are great for placing around water features and can emphasise a certain plant or statue beautifully. BLT Direct has an extensive range of halogen and LED Ground Lights which vary in size, design, finish and colour. Their robust construction means that once they are in the ground, they will remain sturdy and durable, and the lifespan of an average LED ground light bulb is a huge 100,000 – that’s a lot of evening barbecues and parties before they have to be replaced. One MR11 20 Watt Stainless Steel Fitting is available from BLT Direct priced at just £20.18.

Once the sun has set, many in the UK can find that the evening becomes a little chilly, especially if there is no cloud cover. For evenings when the appeal of sitting out in the garden long after sunset is just too strong, the Winterheat 1300 Watt Outdoor Quartz Heater is a fantastic solution. The toughened safety glass and durable construction make it perfect for use around children or pets, and the unit is completely weather-proof and suited to all weather conditions. Available from BLT Direct priced at just £69.99, the lamp can be wall mounted or placed on the floor, and will provide warmth and light for many summers to come.

To find out more and order online, visit http://www.bltdirect.com