GU10 Ø 35mm

A smaller size, big advantages: Why choose GU10 Ø 35mm LED spots

The transition from traditional halogen GU10 Ø 35mm spots to their LED alternatives offers various benefits, resulting in a more efficient and sustainable lighting solution.

• Lower energy costs: LED GU10 Ø 35mm spots consume significantly less power than halogen bulbs with a comparable light output. For example, a 3W LED spot can replace a 25W or 30W halogen lamp. This leads to a noticeable reduction in your energy bill.
• Long lifespan: These LED spots last exceptionally long, often up to 25,000 or even 50,000 hours of use. This reduces the frequency of replacements and the associated maintenance costs.
• Instant full brightness: As soon as you switch them on, LED spots reach their full brightness without any warm-up time.
• Less heat emission: LED technology generates much less heat than halogen, which is safer in enclosed fixtures and contributes to a longer lifetime of both the spot and the fixture.

Comparison: Halogen GU10 Ø 35mm versus LED GU10 Ø 35mm

Determine the right GU10 Ø 35mm spot for your project

Choosing the right GU10 Ø 35mm spot requires insight into a few technical specifications. These not only determine the quality of light but also the suitability and functionality for your particular application.

Technical features for a suitable choice

• Light color (Kelvin): The color temperature, expressed in Kelvin (K), influences the ambiance of a space. A value between 2700K and 3000K creates warm white light, similar to traditional halogen, creating a cozy atmosphere. Higher values, such as 4000K, provide a cool white light that is more functional and can enhance focus, which is useful for kitchens or workspaces.
• Brightness (Lumens): Wattage indicates energy consumption, but lumens tell you the actual brightness of the spot. To achieve a similar light output to your old halogen lamp, focus on the lumens value.
• Beam angle (degrees): The beam angle, indicated in degrees, determines how widely the light is distributed. A narrow beam angle (for example, 24° or 38°) is suitable for accent lighting, to highlight specific objects or areas of a room. A wider beam angle (for example, 60° or more) provides more general, diffused lighting for a larger surface area.
• Color Rendering Index (CRI): The CRI value (Color Rendering Index) indicates how naturally colors are rendered under the spot’s light. A high CRI value (above 80, ideally 90+) is important in spaces where color accuracy matters, such as kitchens or rooms with artwork.
• Dimmability: Many LED GU10 Ø 35mm spots are dimmable, offering flexibility in creating the desired ambiance. It is important to check compatibility with your current dimmer. LED dimmers operate differently than those for halogen bulbs, and a ‘trailing-edge’ dimmer is often required for optimal, flicker-free dimming.
• IP rating (Ingress Protection): While most 35mm GU10 spots are intended for indoor use, the IP rating is relevant for humid environments like bathrooms or covered outdoor areas. A higher IP value offers better protection against dust and moisture.

Installation and key points when fitting GU10 Ø 35mm spots

Installing GU10 Ø 35mm LED spots is generally straightforward. These spots run directly on mains voltage (typically 230V), which means no external transformer is needed, unlike MR16 spots for example. This simplifies wiring and installation.

For the installer, there are a few important points to ensure trouble-free operation:

• Dimmer switches: As mentioned earlier, compatibility with the dimmer is important. Flickering, buzzing, or limited dimming range can occur if the dimmer is not suitable for LED. A 'trailing-edge' dimmer usually solves these issues.
• Heat dissipation: Although LEDs produce less heat, good ventilation of the fixture is still important. This contributes to the long lifespan of the spot.
• Physical dimensions: While the diameter is 35mm, the total length of the LED spot may slightly vary. Check whether the spot fits entirely in the fixture, especially in older or specific recessed situations.

Frequently Asked Questions about GU10 Ø 35mm spots