Indoor spaces often need better lighting to look their best. If you’re still using old panel lights, it might be time for an upgrade. Newer lighting options can improve the look and brightness of your space. In this article, you’ll find out why you should consider replacing your panel lights with better and more stylish lighting choices.
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360-degree adjustable COB
COB stands for “Chip On Board.” Instead of using several separate LEDs like old-style lights, a COB light combines many LED chips on one board. This design makes the light brighter and helps manage heat better. It also spreads light evenly and is more compact. The “360 degree adjustable” feature means you can move the light in any direction. This is done through a movable part in the light, allowing you to direct the light exactly where you need it. Unlike flat panel lights, which give light evenly but don’t move, 360-degree adjustable COB lights offer more flexibility and can be a great alternative.
Benefits
COB lights are very flexible because you can point the light exactly where you need it, making them great for highlighting objects, focused tasks, or general lighting. They use energy more efficiently than older LED lights, which helps save on electricity bills. Since COB lights are smaller, they fit well in places with low ceilings. Although they might cost a bit more upfront, their energy efficiency and long lifespan make them cost-effective in the long run.
Drawbacks
One downside is that the light from COB lights can be more focused, which might create shadows or uneven lighting if not positioned correctly. Also, installing COB lights might take more planning and effort compared to just putting up a simple panel light.
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Twin recessed downlight
Twin recessed downlights, also known as dual-head or double-head downlights, are lighting fixtures with two separate light sources inside one unit that is installed into the ceiling. They offer a clean and modern look.
Unlike panel lights, which provide broad, even light across a space, twin recessed downlights focus light more directly. They are perfect for highlighting specific areas like artwork or plants, giving focused light for tasks such as reading or cooking, and creating different moods by adjusting the direction and brightness of the light. They work well in modern and minimalist interiors.
When using twin recessed downlights, it’s important to space them properly to ensure even light, adjust the angle of the light for the best effect, choose the right colour temperature for the mood you want, and decide if you need dimming options. Make sure to either install them yourself if you’re skilled or hire a professional to do it.
Benefits
Twin recessed downlights offer several benefits over panel lights. They allow you to adjust the angle of each light, making it easier to shine light exactly where you need it, whether for highlighting certain areas or setting different moods. They usually use less energy than panel lights with the same brightness, which helps lower your electricity bills. Their modern and sleek design adds a stylish touch to your interior. Many models also have dimming options, so you can change the light intensity based on what you’re doing.
Drawbacks
There are a few downsides to twin recessed downlights. They don’t provide as even illumination as panel lights because they create distinct light beams that can cause uneven lighting if not spaced correctly. Also, installing them is more complicated because it involves cutting holes in the ceiling, which is more work than just setting up panel lights.
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Magnetic track light
Magnetic track lights are a modern lighting option that gives you a lot of flexibility and design choices, making them a great alternative to traditional panel lights.
Here’s how they work: The system uses a metal rail called a magnetic track that has wires inside to carry electricity. The lights have magnets in their bases, so they easily attach to this rail. The power flows through the magnetic connection, making it simple to move the lights around and position them exactly where you need them.
Advantages over panel lights
Magnetic track lights offer many benefits compared to panel lights. They are highly flexible because you can easily move, add, or remove lights along the track to fit your lighting needs. You can also adjust the direction of each light to shine exactly where you want it. The tracks can be set up in different shapes, like straight or L-shaped, to suit various spaces.
They come in many styles, from simple to modern, and you can mix different types of lights, such as spotlights and floodlights, on the same track. Installing magnetic track lights is quick and easy because the lights attach with magnets, so there’s no need for complicated wiring.
Most magnetic track lights use energy-saving LED technology and many have dimming options to control the brightness. They are suitable for both home settings, like living rooms and kitchens, and commercial spaces, such as stores and offices.
| Feature | Magnetic track lights | Panel lights |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
| Design versatility | High | Low |
| Installation | Easy | Moderate |
| Energy efficiency | High | Moderate |
| Cost | Generally higher | Lower |
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Profile light
Profile lights are made of an aluminium channel that holds an LED strip light. The channel, or profile, comes in different shapes, sizes, and finishes to match various interior styles. The LED strip provides the light.
Profile lights can be used in many places. In living rooms, they can create soft light, highlight features, or show off artwork. In bedrooms, they offer gentle, relaxing light for a cosy feel. In kitchens, they can light up countertops, cabinets, or add dramatic effects under cabinets. They also work well in corridors and hallways, providing both functional and stylish lighting. In commercial settings like restaurants, hotels, and stores, they help set the right mood.
Installing profile lights is usually straightforward. They can be mounted on the surface or recessed into ceilings or walls. They need little maintenance—just clean the profile and replace the LED strip if needed.
When choosing profile lights, consider how bright you need the light to be based on the room size and use, the colour temperature (warm, neutral, or cool white) for the right ambiance, the shape and finish of the profile to match your style, and whether you want a surface-mounted or recessed installation.
Advantages over panel lights
Profile lights have several benefits compared to panel lights. They have a sleek, modern look that is more stylish and less bulky. You can install them in different ways, such as recessed into ceilings, mounted on surfaces, or hanging down, giving you lots of design options. The LED strips used in profile lights are energy-efficient and last a long time. Many profile lights also let you adjust the brightness with dimming options. Some models even offer different colours and white tones with RGB or tunable LED strips. Plus, profile lights can be cut and joined to fit any space, making them very adaptable.
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Track light
Track lights are made up of a metal track installed on the ceiling or wall, with light fixtures that can slide along the track. This setup lets you direct the light exactly where you need it, making them very versatile for different lighting needs.
If you want to highlight certain areas or create a focal point in a room, track lights are a great option. They offer flexibility because you can move and adjust the lights easily, unlike panel lights. They also fit well with modern interior designs and can light up large spaces effectively by directing light where it’s needed.
Installing track lights usually requires a professional because it involves electrical work. They might cost more upfront than panel lights, but the energy savings and benefits over time can balance out the extra cost. Track lights are best suited for rooms with enough ceiling height to allow easy adjustment of the lights.
Advantages over panel lights
Track lights have several benefits compared to panel lights. They are very flexible because you can adjust where the light is directed, making them great for highlighting specific areas, creating different moods, or showcasing artwork. Track lights come with various types of fixtures, such as spotlights and floodlights, allowing you to mix and match to meet your lighting needs. Many modern track lights use energy-efficient LED bulbs, which save more energy than older bulbs. They also add a modern and stylish touch to your space with their clean lines and adjustable features. Track lights are perfect for focusing on particular features in a room, like artwork or plants, and can also be used for tasks that need bright, focused light, such as reading or cooking.
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Stretchable led downlight
Stretchable LED downlights are a flexible and functional lighting option compared to traditional fixed downlights. They can be adjusted and shaped to fit different ceiling designs and architectural styles, making them a versatile choice for both homes and businesses.
These lights can be stretched and moulded into various shapes, allowing for creative lighting setups. They use energy-efficient LED bulbs, which provide bright, long-lasting light. Many models offer dimming options so you can change the light intensity to match different moods or activities. They come in different colour temperatures, like warm white, cool white, and daylight, to suit your desired atmosphere. Usually, they are installed recessed into the ceiling for a sleek and modern look.
Although stretchable LED downlights have many benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind. They may cost more than traditional panel lights, especially if they are larger or have extra features. Installing them might require a professional, especially for complex designs or large spaces. Additionally, there might be fewer size, shape, and colour options available compared to panel lights.
Advantages over panel lights
Stretchable LED downlights offer several benefits. They use LED technology, which is energy-efficient and helps lower your electricity bills. LEDs also last much longer than traditional lights, so you won’t need to replace them as often. They produce less heat, which makes them safer and more energy-efficient. Plus, they are eco-friendly because they don’t contain harmful mercury and can be recycled.
These lights are great for enhancing the look of a space because their flexibility allows for creative lighting designs. You can adapt them to different ceiling shapes and sizes, creating unique lighting patterns and effects. They can also be customised to fit specific design needs, making them perfect for highlighting certain areas. In some cases, they might be easier to install than panel lights, especially in ceilings with unusual shapes.
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Downlight COB
Downlight COB is a type of light that combines a COB LED with a downlight fixture. These lights are installed into the ceiling and shine downward.
Use downlight COBs if you want to highlight specific features or artwork in your space. They are also great for areas that need focused light, like kitchen countertops or reading spots. They fit well with modern interior designs, adding a contemporary touch to your space. In commercial settings like stores, restaurants, and offices, they can help create specific lighting effects and moods.
Benefits
Downlight COBs have several advantages over panel lights. They provide focused light, which is great for highlighting specific areas or creating certain lighting effects. They are also energy-efficient because COB technology uses less power while still offering bright light. Downlights can give a modern, sleek look to a space and come in different sizes, colours, and beam angles to fit various needs. Many also offer dimming options, allowing you to adjust the light intensity.
Drawback
However, there are some downsides to consider. Installing downlights can be more complicated because it involves cutting holes in the ceiling, which is more work than putting up panel lights. Each downlight covers a smaller area compared to a panel light, so you might need several to light up a larger space. Additionally, if not positioned carefully, downlights can cause glare.
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FAQs
Common issues such as glare, uneven light distribution, and limited design flexibility.
For living rooms, consider a combination of recessed and pendant lights. For bedrooms, opt for softer pendant lights or wall sconces. Kitchens benefit from a mix of recessed and under-cabinet lighting. What are the main drawbacks of panel lights?
Can you recommend lighting alternatives for specific room types, such as living rooms, bedrooms, or kitchens?
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
