Halogen downlights were the go-to for kitchen and living room lighting for decades, but LED technology has advanced to the point where there is now very little reason to stick with halogen — and several compelling reasons to switch.
Energy Savings
This is the biggest argument for LEDs. A typical halogen GU10 uses 50W; an equivalent LED GU10 uses around 5–6W and produces the same or better light output. In a kitchen with 10 downlights, that's a difference of 440W every hour the lights are on.
Example saving: Running 10 halogen downlights for 4 hours per day costs around £263 per year (at 40p/kWh). Switching to LED reduces this to around £35 — a saving of over £220 per year.
Lifespan
Halogen bulbs typically last 1,000–2,000 hours. Quality LED lamps are rated for 15,000–25,000 hours — 10 to 15 times longer. This dramatically reduces replacement costs and the frustration of blown bulbs.
Heat Output
Halogens run extremely hot — hot enough to cause burns and pose a fire risk if incorrectly covered. LEDs run cool, making them safer and more comfortable in enclosed spaces.
Light Quality
Early LEDs had a reputation for cold, harsh light but modern LED lamps are available in:
- Warm white (2700–3000K) — matching the warm glow of halogen, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms
- Cool white (4000K) — clean, bright light suited to kitchens and bathrooms
- Daylight (5000–6500K) — crisp white light for task lighting and offices
High CRI (Colour Rendering Index) LEDs (CRI 90+) also reproduce colours more accurately than halogens.
Dimming
Most modern LED lamps are dimmable, but require a compatible LED dimmer switch — traditional dimmer switches designed for halogen may flicker or buzz with LEDs. When we install LED downlights, we also check and update dimmer switches as needed.
The Switch: What's Involved?
In many cases, switching from halogen to LED simply involves replacing bulbs. However, for fire-rated downlights or where the existing fittings are in poor condition, we may recommend replacing the complete fitting — which also gives you the opportunity to update the look and specification.
Onyx Electrical Solutions installs LED downlights and complete lighting schemes across Greater Manchester. Call 07000 000000 for a free quote.