LED lamp how to choose. European manufacturers and Japan. High quality LED lamps

LED lamps are a new word in the evolution of lighting equipment. More recently, they were rare exotics, but now they are firmly established in homes, and it is not difficult to buy them. a lot of work in any enterprise that sells lighting equipment.

There is a steady trend that LED incandescent lamps will soon take a leading position in the market.

Operating principle of LED lamps

Light-emitting diodes have been used in electronic equipment for a long time. It all started with light indicators, instrument panels, information boards and advertising. Advances in technology have made it possible to use LED lamps for lighting. The LED design differs from an incandescent lamp in its minimal heating loss during conversion AC to permanent. The strength of the glow directly depends on the strength of the current: more current - brighter the light. LED lamp, 220V voltage, is much more economical and safer than many other light sources.

LED lamp device diagram

As can be seen from the diagram, the principle of LED illumination is based on the passage of electric current through it. A special control device - a microcircuit - is placed in the device.

Also built into the design is a converter that changes the current of the general electrical network into the operating parameters of the lamp components. The LED lamp (220V) differs from other devices alternative to the incandescent lamp in that its circuit does not contain an energy-intensive part - a transformer. This affects the efficiency of the device. The principle of operation of an LED lamp is the same for all models, regardless of the shape of the lampshade, light and color radiation, and power. Differences can only be in the operating voltage. As a rule, these are standard values ​​of 4; 12 and 220 volts.

Technical features. Economical

The main thing is low electrical energy consumption, but at the same time high light output, maximum light flux. The spectrum emitted by lighting devices is determined by color temperature. This value is usually expressed in degrees on the Kelvin scale. The warmer (closer to yellow) the light, the lower the numerical value.

A familiar, traditional lamp with a tungsten filament has a color temperature of 2700 to 3500 K. At the same time, the color temperature of the cool white glow emitted by LED fluorescent lamps reaches 6500 K. Low-temperature, yellow color is most pleasing to the eye, it is minimal blocks the release of melatonin. Paying attention to this, the industry began to produce low color temperature LED lamps using a combination of different LEDs - LED-RGB. However, the price becomes incomparably high.

Base

Another feature that affects consumer qualities. Modern lighting devices and equipment are produced with different sockets, and the base elements also differ in the same way. LED lamps. They can be pin, pin, soffit, focusing, telephone.

Still, today the most commonly used in everyday life is the classic model of the Edison threaded base.

Heat production

The characteristics of LED lamps indicate another technical parameter- heat generated during operation. The radiator helps dissipate it. This is an aluminum, graphite or ceramic part built into the device. In accordance with accepted standards operating temperature should not exceed 70 degrees. Typically, the radiator is protected by a thermoplastic casing.

Variety of choices

LED lamps also differ in design. The variety of shapes allows you to choose a model to match any type of lighting fixture or interior style. Round, plum-shaped, spherical, standard. Closed shades use lamps with transparent bulbs that do not hide the internal “filling”.

To create an aesthetic, design effect, it is indispensable matte finish, giving soft, uniform light. If directional lighting is required, a mirror lamp will create it. The most popular are LED candle lamps. They are perfect for various decorative lamps, creating the illusion of light from a burning flame. The design of the flask is very original:

• “twisted” with a matte finish;
• “twisted” with golden coating;
• "candle in the wind";
• "candle with wick"

The characteristics of LED candle lamps reflect and technical solutions. As a result of the ability to embed lamps in materials such as plastic, silicone and even paraffin, original models appeared:

• “tea rooms”, including floating ones;
• multicolor;
• controlled remotely - by remote control;
• with USB charging and battery;
• with high imitation of real flame;
• equipped with a timer.

The heavy burden of choice

Having found out the advantages and disadvantages, how to choose an LED lamp for your home? First of all, you need to pay attention to the power consumption.

These values ​​are not the same for different types of lamps. This is shown in the comparison table, the unit of measurement is watt:

When replacing lamps with LED ones, this parameter can be calculated by simply multiplying the power value of the LED device by 6. You also need to pay attention to the markings of the base. It must match the type of cartridge. Thus, a lamp with the designation G9 can only be installed in the base. The connection between the base and the bulb must be strong, preventing loosening. If there is a power supply, it is not recommended to equip it with LED lamps.

How to choose an LED lamp for a home that uses dimmer devices? Most lamps do not respond to dimmer control, but turn on and operate in constant mode. But gradually the market is becoming saturated. A specially assembled driver allows you to adjust the brightness of the lamp using a dimmer. This property is marked with appropriate markings on the lamp or packaging.

Lamp selection may be affected by the manufacturer's specified service life. Usually stated from 20 to 50 thousand hours. But practice does not confirm these figures. There is a direct dependence of the durability of the device on the quality of the components and the care of assembly. Low-quality Chinese consumer goods fail in a matter of months. Well-known brands guarantee normal lamp operation for 3-5 years. This is explained by the process of crystal degradation; they slowly lose their brightness and completely stop glowing.

Another way for the home is to evaluate the spectrum of its glow. Most lamps emit an unpleasant, lifeless white light. According to psychologists, it negatively affects well-being. You should purchase LED lamps with a soft yellow glow for your home interior.

Poor build quality causes radiation pulsation. Such a flaw is not noticed by the human eye, but has a strong effect on the nervous system, causing rapid fatigue. The presence of such a defect can be determined using mobile phone, his cameras. The pulsating lamp image on the screen will blink.

Manufacturer and price

How to choose an LED lamp for your home? An important criterion is price. The low cost of a lighting device undoubtedly indicates the poor characteristics of the purchased product. Quality products cannot be cheap. This applies to well-known foreign brands. There is an opinion among consumers that the highest quality and most reliable LEDs are imported from abroad. This is not entirely true; if you look in detail and analyze the modern lighting market, you can come to the conclusion that individual Russian companies demonstrate the high quality and stability of their products. Domestic manufacturers have made a big step forward and their products are also trustworthy.

Today, most users of lighting devices give their preference to LED lamps. LED light bulbs for the home are considered the most economical and efficient. However, the cost of such elements is quite decent, especially when it comes to global brands. Manufacturers of LED lamps offer many models based on modern technologies, so the issue of price-quality ratio is always very pressing.

Famous brands

The most expensive are LED bulbs, which are especially popular in Europe. These are LED models from Cree, Osram, Philips brands. According to statistics, it is these companies that most often produce lamps that top the international ratings, however, in the conditions of the Russian market, some nuances must be taken into account.

Firstly, manufacturers of LED lamps of this level create models only with a voltage of 220V, as in European countries, and 110V, as in the USA. Secondly, most light bulbs use an E26 base. In Russia, the E27 base is more popular. However, we shouldn’t write off the so-called TOP-3, so let’s take a closer look at them.

• The Dutch company Philips produces a wide variety of lighting products. The advantage of their LED bulbs is that they not only save energy, but are also highly environmentally friendly. Therefore, they can be used to illuminate the home for a long time. However, these LED products are considered one of the most expensive.
• The Austrian brand Osram has a lot of distinctive signs. As a result of expert testing, the lamps from this company were recognized as extremely energy efficient, and were also noted as products with a high degree of environmental protection and a long service life. The high cost may scare off buyers, but these are the best LED bulbs available today, so they pay for themselves within a year.
• CREE was one of the first to offer innovative high-power LEDs. These new generation LED lamps have a high luminous flux and minimal energy consumption, so they are considered a real alternative to a halogen light bulb. The company today produces ultra-bright devices in the “High-Brightness” line, as well as powerful “XLamp” LEDs. For the home, the second group of light bulbs is used directly, which includes models with different light directions and brightness. However, lamps with a reddish-yellow glow from this manufacturer are not found in all new model lines.

How do the above LED companies ensure high quality? Firstly, they produce all products only under their own brand. Secondly, each stage of production is subject to constant monitoring. Finally, all these companies produce light bulbs not on an assembly line, but by creating separate departments involved in different processes. This division of labor seriously improves the quality of lamps, because if there is a defect, they will deal with a specific department.

Interestingly, the top ranking of the most popular companies producing LED light bulbs often includes the Gauss brand. Surprisingly, unlike its colleagues, this brand is Russian. The high price of the products is fully justified by the use of unique technologies. LED light bulbs from Gauss are not only economical, but also have an original design and almost do not heat up. They can be safely used at home to complete the look of a modern chandelier and can even be used with a suspended ceiling.

Among the popular foreign companies in the field of lighting technology, Nichia should be noted, which creates light bulbs in Japan. The demand for these products is quite high. The advantages of the brand are low price, high-quality assembly and good efficiency of lamps in operation.

In pursuit of new products, many consumers prefer to buy light bulbs from well-known brands from the most fashionable lines. It is worth noting that the price of such products is often overpriced, and the innovations used are not always what the buyer really needs. Therefore, pay attention to the year of manufacture of LED bulbs. The best lamps, of course, are among the latest generation products. Their main advantage is modern and durable LEDs. But sometimes even the largest online stores of European companies organize profitable sales on old light bulbs. They are no worse in quality, and a discount will always be a pleasant bonus in your purchase.

Domestic control

To begin with, it is worth noting that today the market for LED products includes both nominally Russian brands and actually local manufacturers. In the first case, it is important to understand that the creation of light bulbs is carried out in Chinese factories. In such conditions, Russian companies only control the ongoing work, providing the necessary drawings. LED light bulbs of similar brands are, in principle, of good quality, since wage increases directly depend on the level of sales. Also, the advantages of such brands can be considered prompt work with consumer complaints and the low cost of lamps. Let's look at which light bulbs in this category you can buy without fear.

• Feron is one of the oldest companies on the Russian market, producing products since 1999. The company’s range of LED light bulbs is very high, and they can’t help but delight affordable prices. An additional plus is an honest indication of all the characteristics of the lamps on the packaging. The brand also has an official online store, so you can purchase products without leaving your home.
• A major lighting engineering company is Camelion, whose brand is known throughout the world. However, the problem with the products of this brand is the lack of clear markings on the light bulbs. The technical designations for LED lamps are very long, so you will have to understand the need for a particular product in advance. But most of the light bulbs from this company have an original design that allows you to create a wide angle of illumination.
• The Jazzway brand rarely receives negative reviews of its products, which inspires confidence. The company has established itself as a manufacturer of reliable and certified light bulbs. At the same time, you can purchase very powerful and bright models with an E27 base for your home.
• Navigator has been present on the Russian market since 1993 and during this time has rarely let down buyers of LED products. Since 2002, the company has been cooperating with General Electric and Osram, so it is not surprising that Navigator is the leader in sales of General Electric products in Russia. Each light bulb has a clear description, down to the LEDs used in assembly, as well as necessary documents. I wonder what this company produces LED lamps with filamentous LEDs.
• The Era company also creates very high-quality LED products, but does not always correctly indicate the characteristics of the light bulbs. This is especially important in a situation where the consumer is just moving from incandescent lamps to new generation inventions. Prices for products from this brand are slightly above average.

Among the less popular companies with a Chinese assembly scheme, one can note, for example, “Elektrostandard”, “Ecola”, “Odeon”, “Uniel”, “Start”, “Cosmos”, “Economka”. The advantage of these manufacturers is that they, as a rule, take care of the availability of electronic catalogs on official websites. Brands have interesting models, although sometimes the characteristics of the bulbs may not be sufficient for constant use at home.

It is interesting that it is the conventionally Russian group of manufacturers that occupies the majority of our market for LED products. The products of these brands are extremely popular, and constant demand motivates companies to improve the characteristics of light bulbs. The best-selling are Feron, Navigator, Camelion. In terms of the presence of negative reviews, the leading companies are Cosmos, ASD, and Odeon. The main problem with these brands of light bulbs is the constant burnout of LEDs.

Please note that the best LED lamps from such manufacturers are not always expensive. They can make products cheaper not by reducing quality, but by promoting more convenient technologies. Therefore, other things being equal, sometimes it makes sense to give preference to models with low cost.

Russian production

Now it’s worth paying attention to truly domestic manufacturers who create LED light bulbs in Russian factories. Many people believe that the level of such products is much better. Here, of course, there are some nuances, but the price-quality ratio of such brands is almost always ideal.

• "Optogan" produces energy-efficient models of light bulbs with very bright diodes. In terms of characteristics, this company is in no way inferior to the leader of the Russian rating - the Gauss company - however, the huge advantage of Optogan is the affordable cost of the lamps. An indicator of the company's production is that many of the concepts of this brand have begun to be used by foreign colleagues.
• SvetaLed also assembles its light bulb models at its own factories using domestic chips. This brand competes well with Osram and Philips. The company's LED lamps have long been considered exemplary, and although the price seems overpriced in comparison with unknown Russian brands, the products pay for themselves very quickly.

There are also lesser-known companies that produce LED products. Of course, buying a light bulb without confidence in its characteristics is sometimes risky, but if the product is needed, for example, not for the home, but for the dacha, it is not worth overpaying once again for the authority of the brand. Therefore, an excellent alternative to the above-mentioned companies is, for example, the Svetlana-Optoelectronics company.

Chinese companies

Purely Chinese brands, as a rule, are little known to Russian buyers, even by ear. In most cases, production remains a secret to consumers, and it is not always clear which country and quality parts were used. Chinese companies rarely follow generally accepted standards, so sometimes LED bulbs can even give off an unpleasant green tint. The advantage of such products is their extremely low cost, but most likely the indicated service life will be many times overestimated.

Of course, in China all these companies have the necessary certificates to operate. Brands such as Ali, DX, MiIntheBox are no longer uncommon in our market, but they are intended exclusively for casual buyers. If you study the quality of products in detail, you can immediately encounter a discrepancy between the specified characteristics and reality. The power of such light bulbs, as a rule, does not exceed 3-5 W.

Unfortunately, there are often cases when products are not only useless, but also dangerous. The fact is that instead of LED drivers, unscrupulous companies place standard ballasts in light bulbs. The result is a flickering light that strains the eyes. That is why it is better to avoid such lamps if you require a product for daily use. If you urgently need to save money when purchasing an LED light bulb, you can choose Maxus products. It also has significant shortcomings, but it gets more laudatory reviews than other Chinese brands.

Model overview

In most cases, ratings of LED light bulbs are compiled either directly by regular users of the products, or by experts based on comparative tests. Understanding how the hierarchy is distributed in the TOP of the best LED lamps helps you make the right choice when purchasing it yourself. So, in terms of price-quality ratio, the following models are the best (not including European companies):

• Among the most popular LED light bulbs with an E27 base and a power of 60 W, the Navigator version comes first. Also suitable for use are lamps from the brands “Wolta”, “Lexman”, “X-Flash”, “IKEA”. In the 75 W power category the "OSRAM" light bulb also appears. At 95 W, the Gauss lamp turns out to be the best.
• LED light bulbs in the form of candles are produced with an E14 or “minion” base. In this group, the best 40W lamps are “Uniel”, “Navigator”, “Lexman”, “Volta”. With a power of 60W, the optimal model is from Gauss. The main thing is not to forget that in this case you will need an adapter to connect to the E27 socket.
• As for LED bulbs in the shape of a ball, they are also found with a standard base. At 40 W power, good options are offered by Cosmos, Vitoone, and X-Flash. With an E14 base, such lamps can be used in production from Wolta, Lexman, Nanosvet.
• Many consumers also like mirrored LED bulbs. With a minion base they come in 35-40 and 50 W ratings. The first group includes the same brands that produce high-quality ball lamps. In the second category, in addition to the above, there is the “Artpole” brand, which, however, offers light bulbs for more than 300 rubles apiece. Mirror lamps with a regular base are available from the Era brand.
• In such a rating it is impossible not to include LED lamps that replace halogen spotlights. Their peculiarity is narrow beams of light that do not tire the eyes. In this case, the leader is the Kreonix company. The same light bulbs, but with a wide lighting angle, are produced with high quality by X-Flash and Lexman.

In addition to ratings that take into account only the cost and quality of products, there are also lists in which light bulb models are ranked on a different basis. Thus, the luminous efficiency of the lamps, color temperature, power factor and even the warranty period are taken into account.

As statistics show, most often the winner of such studies is the Navigator company, but European brands do not participate due to inflated costs. This company offers an excellent economical replacement for incandescent light bulbs, while most models have a bright design, high color rendering and a long operating time.

Further, a similar rating includes “Uniel” light bulbs, which look great in decorative lamps due to their original and completely unique shapes. It is also worth noting the good performance of the Svetlana-Optoelectronics brand. Models from the Ecolight and Svetovod brands are slightly less effective, but even in this case the consumer receives environmentally friendly and stable LED bulbs.

A well-chosen lighting design can change for the better not only the interior, but also your mood, giving you a feeling of comfort and inner warmth. For ideal lighting, both the design of the luminaires and the correct use light sources. To figure out how to choose LED lamps for your home, you need to familiarize yourself with the parameters that distinguish them from other analogues.

Many consumers, before buying LED lamps for their home, ask themselves: what are the fundamental differences between different types of lamps and what are the advantages of LED light sources? In this regard, the main technical properties of LED lamps should be noted:

• low power consumption;
• long functional life;
• absence of a “strobe effect” - LED lamps form a uniform glow that does not tire the eyes;

• high luminous efficiency;
• the ability to glow in all shades of the rainbow spectrum;
• safety of use - the lamps are environmentally friendly, do not emit harmful substances or radiation, hardly heat up and are fireproof;
• ability to operate during voltage surges - if the network voltage decreases, the lamps will operate with lower brightness;
• versatility - due to the presence of standard sockets in the design, LED lamps can be used in previously installed lamps;
• optimal price-quality ratio - manufacturers of LED products are constantly working to improve technical qualities, while the price of products decreases every year.

These properties generalize all LED light sources. However, there are differences between LED lamp models. This applies to the size of the case, the type of base, the power of the device and many other parameters. Having understood the main characteristics of LED products, we can conclude which LED lamps are best for the home.

LED lamps for 220V: circuits, device

The design of the LED lamp includes the following elements:

• diffuser - to increase the angle and distribute the light evenly. Typically made of translucent plastic or durable polycarbonate;
• LED system - the number used in the lamp determines its power, size and design. One lamp can use from one to several dozen diodes;
• aluminum printed circuit board - ensures heat removal from the LEDs to the cooling radiator;
• radiator - made of several aluminum plates. Removes heat from the printed circuit board;
• capacitor - an element of the adapter that serves to eliminate the effect of voltage ripple at the output;
• - used to convert alternating current. It rectifies and stabilizes the voltage to power the diodes;
• base of the plinth - made of polymer, it protects the housing from electrical breakdown;
• brass base - ensures contact with the lamp socket.

Thus, the LED lamp is a block of diodes and a resistor power supply circuit that limits the current. The 220V LED lamp circuit represents the sequence in which the 220V mains voltage is supplied to the bridge rectifier element through the current limiting capacitor, designated C1 in the diagram, and resistor R2.

As a result, the HL1 LED system is supplied constant food passing through resistor R4. The LEDs in the lamp begin to glow. The purpose of capacitor C2 in the circuit is to obtain a smoothed rectified voltage. Discharge of capacitor C1 when the LED light source is disconnected from the supply voltage occurs through resistor R1.

How to choose LED lamps for your home: comparative analysis of light sources

The high cost of LED light sources often causes doubts about the advisability of using LED lighting. You can figure this out by doing comparative analysis LED lamp and incandescent lamp. Correspondence tables for various lamp characteristics give an idea of ​​the return on investment of LED devices.

Types of LED lamp bases

For ease of use of LED products in home network The devices are available with various standard socket options. This allows you to effortlessly replace old lamps with modern LED lighting sources. Main types of bases:

• E 14, E 27 - LED lamps with this base are quite common among consumers. The numbers indicate the diameter of the base (mm), the base itself has a screw connection system. Elongated bulbs with an E 14 base are usually used for small lamps, wall sconces and floor lamps. The price of LED lamps with E27, E 14 base depends on their power and the presence of a dimming function;
• GU 10 - the design of the rotary base is a two-pin connector with which the lamp is fixed to the socket. The connectors have thickenings at the ends, as evidenced by the “U” symbol in the designation of electrical accessories. The distance between the pins of such a clamp is 10 mm. Used in recessed ceiling lights;
• GU 5.3 - the distance between the pins in this base is 5.3 mm. Unlike the GU 10, the pins of this lamp holder do not have thickenings. The main application is for spot lighting lamps for suspended plasterboard ceilings;

• G 13 - this type of socket is used as a holder for lamps of type ST 8. The gap between the pin rods of the connector is 13 mm. LED lamps with this base are used for linear and ceiling lamps in places where it is necessary to illuminate an area of ​​significant size (supermarket halls, warehouses, etc.).

Useful advice! LED lamps with a socket with a pin connector should only be used in sockets with an appropriate pin spacing.

When choosing LED lamps by base type, you should give preference to those options that are used in lamps already installed in your home. If the floor lamp has standard lamp sockets with a threaded quick connection system, then the lamp must be selected with an identical holder.

Indicators of the power ratio of LED lamps and incandescent lamps

Until recently, when incandescent lamps were used for lighting, its level was assessed by power consumption. And if it was necessary to illuminate a large room, for example, a living room or hall, then a 100 W incandescent lamp was required. In the case of LED light sources, this criterion is somewhat incorrect, since they have different light output. When using LED lamps, some of the power is lost at the adapter.

Thus, the value of power consumption does not always indicate the corresponding brightness of the glow. When comparing the power of LED lamps and incandescent lamps, a factor of 8 is used. For example, to obtain the level of illumination that a conventional 60 W incandescent lamp gives, you will need an LED analogue with a power of at least 7.5 W, and a 200 W incandescent lamp can be replaced with an LED device 30 W.

For convenience, we provide data on the correspondence between the power of LED lamps and incandescent lamps. It should be noted that the indicators in the tables have average values, however, even with appropriate adjustments, you can see the advantages of LED light sources.

Table of the ratio of LED lamps and incandescent lamps by power:

Table of correspondence of watts of LED lamps to incandescent lamps and fluorescent devices:

Correspondence of incandescent lamps to LED lamps in terms of light output

The choice of LED products is impossible without taking into account the ratio of incandescent lamps and LED lamps in terms of luminous flux. The unit of measurement for luminous flux is lumen. Not all manufacturers indicate this characteristic on the product packaging. In view of this, many consumers are forced to navigate based on power consumption. But if this parameter is still specified, choosing a product will not be difficult.

Considering that the average luminous flux of an incandescent lamp is 15 lm/W, a 60 W lamp will have a light output of 900 lm (60 x 15). The luminous flux of the LED lamp is about 90 lm/W. Multiplying the power of the device 11 W by 90 lm/W, we get 990 lm. Therefore, to obtain identical brightness when replacing a 60 W incandescent lamp, you can use an 11 W LED lamp.

Useful advice! When organizing lighting in an apartment or house, LED lamps with a power of 6-10 W will be quite sufficient. Such devices will produce a luminous flux similar to the brightness of the glow when using 60 W incandescent lamps.

Often, the packaging of an LED lamp indicates that its brightness matches that of an incandescent lamp. You can also use a comparison of incandescent lamps, energy-saving and LED light sources in terms of luminous flux.

Correspondence table between LED lamps and incandescent lamps in terms of luminous flux:

Thus, when comparing incandescent lamps and LED lamps, you can see that the more powerful the device, the higher the luminous flux of any type of lamp. However, to obtain the required brightness, you can use an LED lamp with a much lower power, the energy consumption of which is 8 times lower than that of an incandescent lamp and 3 times lower than that of a fluorescent lamp.

Color temperature of LED lamps: choosing the optimal option

Unlike incandescent lamps, which produce a warm yellowish glow at any power, LED light sources can emit light of various shades. This is explained by the fact that the emission spectrum of a LED lamp has a varied color temperature of the glow, which is provided by two contained spectra: blue from the diode and spectrum from the phosphor - the substance that fills the lamp. When mixed, these two components produce a white glow of different shades.

Thus, when purchasing LED lamps, you need to pay attention to the color of the device. Its value is expressed by the temperature in degrees Kelvin (K). To convert degrees Kelvin to the Celsius scale, you need to subtract the number 273 from their value, since the zero Kelvin mark corresponds to 273°C.

Like other parameters, the color of the glow is indicated by manufacturers in technical documentation or on the lamp packaging. The designation includes a four-digit number and the letter “K”. A lamp that produces a warm white glow when illuminated will have the designation 2700 K, which is identical to the color of the luminous flux of an incandescent lamp. The color of the neutral (daytime) white glow is similar to the emission of a fluorescent light source and is designated 5000 K.

The main feature of LED lamps is that they can reach a glow temperature of up to 7000 K and still barely heat up. This indicates that all their energy is converted into a useful glow. The color of the emitted light can range from warm yellow to cool white.

Useful advice! When decorating the lighting of rooms where elderly people will be, preference should be given to lamps with a neutral white glow. This will help older family members correctly perceive the colors of objects.

LED Beam Angle

Previously, when purchasing conventional lamps, the question did not arise about what the luminous angle of this light source was. The fact is that incandescent lamps emit light equally in all directions. The luminous flux angle of LED lamps can be different. And this should be taken into account when choosing products.

If you use LED lamps with a narrow beam in a ceiling chandelier, then, depending on its design, only the place on the ceiling above it or on the floor below it will be illuminated. In this case, the main lighting will not correspond to its functions and the room will be dim.

A table will help you select lamps with the required luminous flux angle, which indicates the scattering angle of different lamp models and the designation corresponding to this value. As a rule, this parameter is also specified by the manufacturer on the device packaging.

Table showing the scattering angle of lamps of different models:

When choosing the scattering angle of LED lamps, it is necessary to take into account the purpose of the lighting for which they will be used. Lamps with narrow beam radiation are suitable for accent lighting of furniture, decor and small areas of the interior. Such devices are also recommended for use in LED table lamps for the desktop.

Functions of a radiator in the design of a LED lamp

To remove heat, the design of the LED lamp includes a radiator. This is done so that when heated strongly, the diode crystal does not lose its light output property. In addition, overheating reduces the lifespan of LEDs. The radiator itself is located inside between the base and the lamp body.

Radiators made of plastic, covered with a shiny film, are not able to fully remove heat and ensure the safety of the diode. But the radiator is not visible to the buyer purchasing the lamp. In some cases, you can use a simple technique: lightly tap the outer surface of the radiator with a small metal object and determine by the characteristic sound what it is made of.

Modern LED lamps have a heatsink made of aluminum or its alloys. The design of such radiators has a spiral arrangement of fins that have different lengths. This shape ensures good air circulation and high-quality heat dissipation. You can navigate the design of the radiator based on the cost of the product itself. The likelihood that you can buy an LED lamp at a low price with a high-quality radiator is very small.

Types of LED lamps by form and functionality

LED lamps come in a variety of shapes and sizes. All lamps with a pin connector are the same in shape. As for the threaded connector, lamps with such a base can have many designs:

• The pear shape is the standard lamp shape and occupies the first position in the ranking of LED lamps for the home. Used in dimensional lampshades. Has a height of 106 to 126 mm and a width of 60 mm;
• spherical shape - such models are mainly used in small round lampshades;
• candle shape - usually has a “minion” type base and is used for narrow and flat lamps;
• the shape of a candle in the wind - a creatively shaped lamp, usually with a dimming function, which provides an incredibly beautiful play of crystals;
• reflector lamp - used to create directional lighting in spotlights;
• corn - the bulb of such a lamp is similar to an ear of corn.

Useful advice! In corn lamps, the outer contacts of the diodes are energized. In view of this, they should be installed in a protective shade.

LED lamps can differ not only in shape and size, but also in internal content. Depending on functionality, lamps may have:

• pulse drivers on microcircuits;
• RGB LEDs - these bulbs can emit all the colors of the rainbow;
• remote control - brightness changes are carried out via radio from the remote control;
• built-in power supply battery - work in offline mode;
• control system via Wi-Fi.

There are special models of lamps that are not intended for use on a home network. These include 12 volt E27 LED lamps. The main application of these light sources is emergency lighting, lighting of industrial workplaces, building envelopes, etc. The low supply voltage ensures safety for people in the workplace.

The use of LED lamps 12 volt E27 base is also suitable for energy-independent systems of private cottages, yachts, and boats. Such lamps provide stable brightness of a neutral white shade. Devices are connected to a 220 V network through a transformer for 12 volt LED lamps.

Standards for illumination of a schoolchild's desk

Due to the fact that a child’s vision at school age is in the process of formation and improvement, it is especially important to choose the right lighting for the desktop at which he will study. To do this, it is necessary to take into account not only the location of the table and lamp, but also choose the right lamp model.

Illumination standards

There are lighting standards for both different rooms and their individual zones. It goes without saying that the most favorable for the human eye (including the child’s eye) is daylight. However, given that the child is in class, it is often necessary to homework comes at a time when natural light is no longer sufficient.

Desktop lighting standards require light output to be smooth, soft, flicker-free, shadow-free, and within 300 lux. Lux is a unit of illumination created by a light flux of 1 lm distributed over a surface of 1 m². To measure the level of illumination, a special device is used - a lux meter.

If the child has a separate room, care must be taken to ensure that the curtains in the room let in as much light as possible and do not block the window. foreign objects. In addition to local lighting of the desk, the room where the student studies requires the use of main light. This will avoid eye strain and fatigue.

Selecting a table lamp model

When choosing a model table lamp It is necessary to be guided by the maximum comfort of the device and its safety. The line of this product includes dozens of models. For convenience, table lamps have a flexible holder, which allows them to be quite mobile within the table. As an option, you can use a lamp with a clothespin mount, which rigidly fixes the lamp to the surface. The use of such models eliminates the risk of accidental falls.

Useful advice! The shade of an LED table lamp for a schoolchild should completely cover the light source so that the direct light flux does not hurt the eyes.

Which is better: LED or energy-saving lamp? Regarding the light sources used in table lamps, experts recommend the use of LED lamps. They emit a pleasant, uniform light without pulsating, do not burst, do not emit harmful substances and have a minimum heating temperature. The lamp power should be selected so that the light is not too saturated and not too dim.

Today, models of table LED lamps with a brightness control have appeared on sale. Such devices have several levels of illumination and touch control of the glow. Using a dimmer, you can adjust the brightness to the desired comfortable level. Dimmable lamps are the latest development in the field of lighting technology.

Why LED lamps blink: causes and solutions

Some consumers, having installed LED lamps in their home, notice that their operation is accompanied by flickering. Such lighting tires the eyes and harms vision in general. Having understood the reasons for this negative effect, you can find ways to eliminate it.

Why do LED lights blink when turned on?

There are several known reasons why LED lamps blink when turned on. Why does this happen:

• incorrect installation - it is necessary to check all the contacts of the circuit, they must be strong;
• the power of the adapter does not match the lamp used - you can replace the power supply with a new one that matches the power;
• significant voltage surges - the driver may not be able to cope with surges, the level of which goes beyond the permissible limits;

• defective product during production - it is necessary to replace the light bulb, since this product is accompanied by a warranty;
• backlit switch - it is not recommended to use such switches in conjunction with an LED light source, since when such a device is turned off, the circuit is in a closed state and contributes to the glare of the lamp;
• mismatch of wire connection - the “zero” phase should be output to the lighting device, and the wire with the phase should be output to the switch;
• the presence of household electrical appliances that create high-frequency interference;
• The LED lamp has expired.

But many people also encounter another problem when LED lamps glow after being turned off. You can find out why this happens by reading functional features LED lamps.

Why do LED bulbs flicker or glow when the lights are off?

The reason why the LED lamp lights up when the switch is off or flickers periodically may be a switch with LED backlight. If you replace the backlit device with a regular switch, the lamp should stop flashing.

The fact is that when the electrical installation device is turned off, it does not completely open the circuit: the main supply of electricity stops, and the backlight LED closes the circuit to itself. The current passing through the diode charges the capacitor of the LED lamp driver, causing it to either blink or produce a dim light.

Another reason why an LED lamp burns when the light is off is a low-quality product. If you purchased an LED lamp at a low price and its manufacturer is unknown, the device probably contains low-power components. Light sources offered by leading manufacturing companies usually use capacitive capacitors. Of course, their cost is high, but they do not blink even when paired with an LED backlit switch.

Why do LED lamps burn out?

The main reasons for the failure of LED light sources are poor quality products or external influences. The latter include:

• a significant excess of the supply voltage - if there are voltage surges in the electrical network, preference should be given to models designed for 240V or more. You can also resort to the use of protective blocks and rectifiers;

• low-quality lamp sockets - low-quality material of the sockets tends to collapse when overheated, the contacts oxidize, thereby creating even greater heating of the LED lamp base;
• the use of powerful lamps in closed-type lampshades not intended for the use of powerful light sources;
• using the mode of frequently turning on and off LED lamps - the working life of the lamps is noticeably reduced;
• incorrect connection diagram - if one lamp fails, the fault is transmitted to other light sources in the common circuit;
• poor-quality connection of wires at nodal points of the electrical network - when connecting, it is recommended to use terminals, soldering or other modern connection options.

Useful advice! For LED lighting, use lamp models with remote power supplies. In the event of a malfunction, they can be accessed for repair or maintenance.

LED lamps for the home: product prices

After familiarizing yourself with the main characteristics of LED light sources, it becomes clear which lamps are better. Although LED products have a high price, their undeniable technical advantages set them apart from other devices.

You can purchase lamps by ordering products in online stores, on the websites of manufacturing companies, as well as in lighting equipment stores. The cost of an LED lamp for a home with an E 27 base similar to a 100 W incandescent lamp is from 225 rubles. and higher. The price of an LED lamp with an E14 base (minion type) varies from 96 rubles. up to 750 rub. per piece depending on the power of the device.

Almost all products purchased from official representatives are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. The warranty period can range from 2 to 5 years. In addition, any of the purchased LED lamps can be exchanged for more suitable model or issue a return within a period not exceeding 14 days from the date of purchase.

Useful advice! To ensure that there are no questions when returning LED products, it is recommended to save the product packaging.

Products from well-known and trusted manufacturers will differ significantly in price from LED products from dubious companies, which will last a maximum of several months. And the quality of the LEDs used in such lamps leaves much to be desired: the actual light output of such sources is much worse than the declared parameters.

Mass production of LED products is growing every year. In this regard, a cost reduction of approximately 25-30% is predicted. Nevertheless, the payback of LED lamps is possible even if they are purchased at current prices.

Review of the best LED lamp manufacturers

There is enough production of LED products large number manufacturers. The only question is how high-quality products they produce. To purchase a high-quality and durable LED lamp, you should familiarize yourself with the leading manufacturers of LED lamps, which accompany their products with a long-term warranty.

Which brand of LED lamps is best to buy? The ranking of leading manufacturers includes:

• Philips is a leader in the development of innovative energy-efficient lighting devices. The company's products are distinguished by high quality, durability and compliance with the stated technical characteristics. The prices for the products of this brand are quite high;

• The German company Osram is a global manufacturer in the field of high-tech street, office and household lighting. The products of this company are economical, have a long service life and comply with all technical requirements. The high cost of LED lamps quickly pays off;
• Gauss trademark - manufacturer of TPK "Warton" produces products using new technologies. The devices produced by the company are environmentally friendly and have original design and long service life. All products are certified and undergo quality control. The products are recognized as the best in terms of price-quality ratio;
• ASD company is a well-known Russian manufacturer of lighting equipment. It specializes in the production of LED products: panels, lamps, strips, spotlights, etc. The devices work perfectly both in domestic use and in production;

• Ecola – the company’s priority is to
  production of a wide range of high-quality and affordable products. The main line is the production of LED lamps used for illumination in suspended ceiling structures. The products are characterized by low energy consumption and long service life;
• GC "Cosmos" - products are manufactured under the Cosmos and Supermax trademarks. The main direction is lamps, lanterns, seasonal lighting devices, batteries. The price of the product is designed for a wide segment of buyers;
• TM Jazzway - specializes in the production of all types of light sources, as well as extension cords, power supplies, chargers, flashlights and other lighting products. The lamps have a durable protective plastic housing. Excellent price-quality ratio;

• Feron - the company's assortment includes more than 4,000 products, including light sources, holiday lighting, lamps, and components. All products are manufactured using nanotechnology and are distinguished by high-precision assembly.

Useful advice! Lighting experts categorically insist on purchasing lamps only from leading lighting manufacturers.

Getting acquainted with the data from the tables comparing LED lamps and incandescent lamps, we can conclude that the conversion of electrical energy into light in LED sources occurs without loss and with minimal consumption. Their safety and environmental friendliness make replacing old light sources with LED lighting rational and harmless.

As the name suggests, the light source in LED lamps is miniature electronic devices - LEDs. In conventional incandescent lamps, light is emitted by a red-hot metal coil. In energy-saving lamps, light is emitted by a phosphor that is applied to the inner surface of a glass tube. In turn, the phosphor glows under the action of a gas discharge.

Before moving on to the LED lamps themselves, let’s briefly consider the features of each type of lamp.

Incandescent lamp The structure is very simple: a spiral of refractory metal is fixed inside a transparent glass flask, from which the air is evacuated. Passing through the spiral, the electric current heats it to a high temperature, at which the metal glows brightly.

The advantage of such lamps is their low price. However, it is compensated by an equally low efficiency: less than 10% of the electricity consumed by the light bulb is converted into visible light. The rest is uselessly dissipated in the form of heat - the light bulb gets very hot during operation. In addition, the service life of the device is very short and amounts to approximately 1,000 hours.

Compact fluorescent lamp, or CFL(this is the exact name energy saving lamp), with the same brightness of light, consumes approximately five times less electricity than an incandescent lamp. CFLs are more expensive and have several significant disadvantages for the consumer:

• it takes quite a long time (several minutes) to light up after switching on;
• the lamp with its curved glass bulb looks unaesthetic;
• The CFL light flickers, which is hard on the eyes.

LED lamp consists of several LEDs mounted in one housing with a power supply. You can’t do without a power supply: LEDs require power to work DC with a voltage of 6 or 12 V, in a household electrical network - alternating current with a voltage of 220 V.

The lamp body is most often made in the form of a familiar “pear” with a screw base. Thanks to this, LED lamps can be installed in a regular socket without any problems.

Depending on the LEDs used, the emission color of LED lamps may vary. This is one of their advantages.

Advantages of LED lamps:

• very low energy consumption - on average eight times less than incandescent lamps of similar brightness;
• very long service life - they work 25–30 times longer than incandescent lamps;
• almost do not heat up;
• radiation color - optional;
• stable lighting brightness even with fluctuations in supply voltage.

The main advantage of LED lamps is their efficiency. It is expected that due to low energy consumption and long service life, LED lamps will significantly reduce lighting costs.

The price of LED lamps at the time of writing was approximately three times higher than conventional lamps. Consequently, in monetary terms they are 50–100 times more economical. Of course, these savings will be achieved provided that the lamp fully fulfills its promised service life and does not burn out prematurely.

The disadvantages of LED lamps limit their scope of application:

• uneven light distribution - the power supply built into the case obscures the light flux;
• a frosted bulb looks ugly in glass and crystal lamps;
• The brightness of the glow, as a rule, cannot be changed using a dimmer;
• unsuitable for use at very low (in the cold) and high (in steam rooms, saunas) temperatures.

What to consider when choosing an LED lamp

LED lamps have many characteristics. This makes it harder to get it right. Let's figure out what exactly the different characteristics mean.

Supply voltage

If the voltage in your apartment or house is unstable, you need to choose lamps that can operate in a wide voltage range. This is always indicated on the packaging. Unlike incandescent lamps, LED lamps burn as brightly at reduced voltage as at normal voltage.

Emission color

Color is characterized by color temperature, which is measured in Kelvin: as color temperature increases, light changes from yellow to blue. In most cases, the color of the radiation is indicated on the packaging and lamp body in degrees and in the words:

• warm (2,700 K) - approximately corresponds to the radiation of an incandescent lamp;
• warm white (3,000 K) - considered optimal for residential premises;
• cold white (4,000 K) - for industrial premises; close to daylight.

There are lamps with variable color: when you switch the mode, the emission spectrum of such a lamp changes.

It must be borne in mind that many people do not perceive the blue part of the spectrum well, so the cold light of the lamps will seem dim to them. So, if you decide to install cold spectrum lamps in your home, choose them with a power reserve.

Power

The packaging of LED lamps indicates their luminous flux and power of incandescent lamps similar in brightness. The actual power consumption of LED lamps is on average 6–8 times less. For example, a 12-watt LED bulb is as bright as a regular 100-watt bulb. This ratio can be used when choosing an LED lamp to replace an incandescent lamp.

However, there may be something waiting for you here unpleasant surprise: The stated wattage may not match the actual wattage and the lamp will produce less light than expected.

In addition, the brightness of LEDs decreases over time. It is possible that the light bulb will have to be changed long before its service life expires due to the fact that it has become too dim.

Other Important Points

• Dimensions. LED lamps are slightly larger in size than similar incandescent lamps. Therefore, they may simply not fit in small lampshades.
• If your lamp is switched on with a dimmer, you need appropriate bulbs. The packaging should indicate that the lamp is adjustable.
• The color rendering index of LED lamps is low: this means that they somewhat distort the visual perception of colors. In some cases, such as when photographing with LED light, this can be important.

Strategy for switching to LED lamps

The prospect shouldn't make you lose your head. Don’t rush to run to the store and buy light bulbs for all the lamps in the house at once. It is advisable to be guided by two principles.

1. Replace only high power lamps - 60 W or more. The savings from replacing low-power lamps will be small, and the cost of a new lamp may not be recouped.
2. Replace lamps in lamps that have the longest burning time during the day: for example, in chandeliers in living rooms. It makes no sense to change a light bulb in some utility room, the light in which comes on occasionally and not for long.

You should not expect that energy consumption will decrease significantly.

The main consumers of electricity in everyday life are various types of heating devices: iron, electric kettle, washing machine and especially the electric stove. According to several people interviewed, the energy bill after switching to LED bulbs decreases by somewhere between 15-25%.

Another tip: do not buy many lamps of the same brand at once, first take one or two to try. The fact is that lamps with the same color temperature from different manufacturers can differ greatly in the light they emit. What if the spectrum of these particular lamps is unpleasant to you? It's better to try.

Conclusion

LED lamps, compared to traditional incandescent lamps, are a fundamentally new solution for lighting.

Just a few years ago they were a very expensive technical novelty, but today their price is already comparable to the price of other types of lamps. As for the characteristics, LED lamps are noticeably superior to previous lighting devices. The verdict is clear: the transition to LED lamps is completely justified.

The first step towards arranging energy-efficient housing is the use of economical light sources. LED lamps for the home, available for sale in a wide range, fully meet this criterion.

In order not to make a mistake in your choice, you need to understand the design features of different LED devices and understand their basic characteristics. The reputation of the manufacturer will also play an important role.

Externally, an LED light bulb is not much different from its counterparts - structurally, it also consists of a glass bulb and a base. But the internal content of the soffit has changed dramatically. The role of the illuminator is not performed by a tungsten filament, but by a light emitting diode (LED).

To light an LED, a low voltage is required, so the device is supplemented with a driver - an electronic circuit that converts alternating current.

Each element performs a specific function:

• the working pair of radiator/aluminum board is responsible for cooling and removes heat from the LEDs and power supply;
• In addition to current stabilization, the driver protects the lamp from short circuit and minimizes light pulsation;
• the system and the number of LEDs determines the power of the light bulb and the angle of illumination;
• The diffuser ensures uniform beam delivery.

The quality of component parts determines the lighting parameters, the durability of LED products and the safety of their operation for human health.

The standard design of a diode lamp, in addition to the diffuser bulb, LED system and base, includes a driver, a radiator and an aluminum printed circuit board

The increased interest in diodes is due to a number of significant advantages over incandescent lamps:

• efficiency - electricity consumption is reduced by 8-10 times;
• durability – service life increased by 20-40 times;
• maintaining brightness during voltage surges;
• slight heating of the bulb - there is no risk of getting burned by the LED lamp.

In a lamp of limited power, you can install a brighter diode than an outdated analogue with an incandescent coil.

LEDs also outperform fluorescent lamps in the following parameters: efficiency, safety and glow quality. The spectrum of LED illuminators is closer to daylight

Diode light bulbs still have disadvantages. Main disadvantages: high price and availability of products for sale low quality. In addition, the ability to change brightness is limited - dimming is provided only in more expensive models.

Types of household LEDs: design differences

Lamps for the home are classified according to two main criteria: LED type and design. Based on the first feature, there are three types of diodes:

• SMD – single LEDs;
• COB – matrix of illuminators;
• Filament – ​​diode filament.

SMD. Single LEDs are suitable for board surface mounting. Their feature is directed light emission with a scattering angle of 100-130°. Priority use: spotlights and LED strips.

Structurally, an SMD illuminator is a crystal on a heat-dissipating layer made of copper or aluminum. There are varieties with and without a diverging lens

SMD diodes are durable, as their design ensures good heat dissipation, preventing the device elements from overheating even during continuous operation.

COB. The abbreviation is interpreted as Chip on Bord, translated as a chip on a board. LEDs are a housing of different configurations with SMD crystals integrated into it.

Designations in the photo: 1 – SMD 5050 module, 2 – COB matrix for 36 chips. The luminous flux of COB diodes is significantly higher than single SMDs

Lamps with “matrix” LEDs are not suitable for narrowly focused lighting, but they are also not able to cover the entire surrounding space - their light dispersion angle is less than 180°.

Filament. The innovative LED is designed using the COB principle, but here many mini-crystals are placed on one elongated cylindrical substrate.

Features of Filament LED lamps: a light spectrum that is comfortable for the eyes, the presence of a transparent bulb, and the absence of a cooling radiator. Scattering angle – 360°

Based on their design, diode lamps for household use can be divided into three groups:

• standard models with matte or transparent bulb;
• “corn” with SMD or COD LEDs.

Standard. Traditional lamps available in different shapes: classic, candle, pear, elongated ball, ellipsoid, etc. The type of bulb depends on the LED used. Matte housing is typical for models with SMD or COD crystals, and transparent glass is typical for Filament lamps.

"Corn". Initially, all lighting equipment of this type was manufactured without a bulb. Open SMD diodes were placed on the cylindrical tube, which eliminated the risk of overheating. Later, single LEDs began to be replaced by more powerful COB matrices.

Both options have the following advantages:

• the absence of a bulb increases the brightness of the glow by 25-40%;
• comprehensive coverage;
• maintainability;
• do not need a radiator, which reduces the cost.

The main disadvantage is the danger of contact with open contacts under voltage.

The photo shows: 1 – “corn” with large SMD diodes, 2 – COB LEDs, 3 – small light bulb with bulb

The last option is the least successful. The glass case hides the contacts but blocks heat from escaping. Such a defect leads to rapid burnout of the lamp.

LED light bulb selection options

Determining a suitable LED spotlight is not as straightforward as choosing an incandescent lamp. The power of the illuminator is far from the only parameter that needs to be taken into account when purchasing.

Luminous flux characteristics

The traditional power indicator, measured in watts, is not so relevant when choosing an LED lamp. It is incorrect to talk about the brightness of an LED illuminator based on its energy consumption. Light bulbs made using different technologies consume different amounts of electricity with the same brightness.

It is more correct to evaluate the equivalent power, as well as the luminous flux.

For the convenience of consumers, many manufacturing companies indicate on the packaging what incandescent lamp power corresponds to the glow of the LED product. For example, a 12 W LED light produces approximately the same amount of light as a regular 100 W lamp

If this information is not displayed, then you can focus on the average indicator - lighting from LEDs is 5 times higher than an incandescent lamp with equal power consumption.

A more accurate idea of ​​the quality of light is given by the luminous flux value. The parameter characterizes the brightness of the lamp and is displayed in lumens. The choice of illumination depends on the purpose of the room.

• kitchen, bedroom, living room – 150 lm;
• children's room, office - 200 lm;
• bathroom, corridor – 50 lm.

Knowing the area of ​​the room, it is easy to calculate the required amount of luminous flux. The brightness value of the diode lamp, as well as the power, is indicated on the packaging. However, it is better to take a device with a small margin of illumination, since manufacturers often overestimate this characteristic.

The graph clearly shows the correspondence between the luminous flux of different types of light bulbs and the power consumed. The brightness index is a universal parameter that allows you to compare and evaluate the quality of illumination of spotlights

Color spectrum - glow temperature

The emission spectrum of the LED lamp varies from warm yellowish to cold blue color. The hue is determined by the color temperature, which is in the range of 1800-6600°K.

The choice of glow tone depends on personal preferences, the purpose of the lighting and the surrounding interior. It is worth considering that all colors of light are perceived differently by humans:

• 2700 K – warm white – promotes relaxation, rest, suitable in a cozy environment, for example, a bedroom;
• 3000 K – yellow-white – slightly cooler than the previous one, recommended for the living room and children’s room;
• 3500 K – daytime white – increases performance; such lamps are suitable for offices and local illumination of mirrors;
• 4000-4800 K - neutral white - perfectly complements interiors in the high-tech style, minimalism, but somewhat suppresses the feeling of comfort; spotlights are installed in public spaces and offices.

Lighters with a glow temperature of more than 5000 K are not recommended for home use. Their purpose is to illuminate streets, industrial and warehouse facilities.

The temperature indicator is indicated among other characteristics on the packaging or housing of the LED light bulb. Some manufacturers give a short description of the shade of the glow, for example, “warm yellow light”

Color rendering index value

Lamps of the same glow temperature can convey the colors of surrounding objects differently. Unlike incandescent light bulbs, diode light bulbs have a limited spectrum, which can lead to distortion of the real picture.

The correctness of shade perception depends on the color rendering coefficient. The index is designated as CRI or Ra.

CRI is a relative value within 100 that indicates how well different colors are visible when illuminated by a lamp. The standard is sunlight, its CRI=100. Incandescent light bulbs also have a high color rendering index – 97-98.

White LEDs typically have a color rendering index of 70-90. For residential lighting, it is better to choose products with CRI>80

Light ripple factor

When thinking about how to choose a high-quality LED lamp for your home, many people forget about such an important parameter as flicker. But it is the pulsation of light that often causes eye fatigue and a deterioration in general well-being.

Manufacturers often do not indicate the degree of flicker of a light bulb. Significant pulsation is perceived as a stroboscopic effect - when you sharply turn your head or shift your gaze.

The presence of flicker can be determined experimentally. Point a pencil at the glowing lamp and quickly twirl it in a semicircle. The absence of extraneous contours indicates safe lighting; if there are “several pencils,” it means the light is pulsating.

An alternative method is viewing through a smartphone camera. If there are stripes on the screen (Fig. 1), then the light from the LED lamp is pulsating. Image without distortion (Fig. 2) - no flicker, dangerous to the eyes

SNiP standards establish that the permissible light pulsation coefficient for a workplace is 10-20%, for a living space - 30%. Requirements are made for pulsations with a frequency within 300 Hz. The retina does not respond to flickering above 300 Hz.

High-quality diode light sources have a flicker degree of up to 5%, incandescent lamps - 8-32%.

Base type and operating voltage

LED bulbs are produced under different types lamps, which allows you to choose a diode for any need. In everyday life, the most popular illuminators are those with the following bases:

• E14, E27 – used mainly for floor lamps, chandeliers, wall sconces;
• GU 10, G4 – intended for replacement halogen light bulb appropriate size and spot lighting.

Most LED lights are powered by a voltage of 220 W. If you have a high-quality driver, the lamp may not be afraid of surges on the electrification line. Some manufacturers preset a wide voltage range - 110-220 W.

A number of modifications are designed for 12 W. To connect them, a pulse converter is required that provides a stabilized voltage.

You can determine the type of power supply by the base. Lamps E27, E14, GU10, G9 operate on alternating current, soffits G4, MR16, MR11, G53 are low-voltage and require DC power supply

In the marking of a light bulb, the letter symbol indicates the type of base, and the number indicates its diameter or the distance between the contacts.

Dependence of the scattering angle on the shape of the bulb

Due to their design features, LEDs emit light in a small angular range. In the absence of optical elements, the diode illuminates the front hemisphere. To expand the range of action, secondary optics are used: diverging, focusing lenses and polycarbonate matte bulbs.

The angular range of illumination depends on the shape of the lamp itself. Convex bulbs scatter light over a larger space.

An example of the light pattern of light bulbs with different frosted bulbs: 1 – A60, glow angle – 120-180°, 2 – A67, illumination coverage – up to 300°

The first type of lamps is mainly used in lamps where the shade is directed downwards - table lighting. The second type is similar to the effect of incandescent lamps and is used to organize the main light.

Lighting angle diagrams: 1 – “candle” with E14 base, 2 – Filament lamps with a transparent bulb, 3 – spherical bulb, 4 – “corn”

Of the above modifications, each has a specific spectrum of action and purpose:

• "candle"– the luminous flux is emitted in different sides, the front hemisphere is poorly illuminated; light bulbs are suitable for chandeliers where the bulb is aimed at the ceiling;
• Filament– suitable for general lighting, but not used to illuminate the workplace;
• spherical flask– operating range – 200-270°, similar to incandescent lamps;
• “corn” - a glow angle of 270° allows you to use the light bulb as the main lighting.

LED luminaires with GU10 and MR16 sockets operate in the range of 15-135°. Conventionally, they can be classified into accent and general lighting.

Light range diagrams: 1 – accent lamp, 2 – bulb with a diffuse lens, 3 – “candle with petals”, 4 – cone lens

Bulbs with a cone lens have an unusual dispersion of light. Unlike models with frosted bulbs, uneven dispersion is observed here. These LEDs are suitable for lamps with shades and shades.

Attention to the quality of the radiator

The heat sink function in LED lamps is performed by radiators. Coolers differ in material, manufacturing and design. The following options are possible:

• aluminum (ribbed and smooth);
• ceramic;
• composite;
• plastic.

The metal cooler has high thermal conductivity and is lightweight.

Aluminum radiators come in two types: ribbed and smooth. The former are considered more efficient, the latter are used in small and inexpensive light bulbs

Plastic. An inexpensive option for diode illuminators with average efficiency. The radiator is made of thermo-dissipating polymer. To increase the thermal conductivity, additional ventilation holes are made in the housing.

Composite The radiator is made of aluminum and enclosed in a thin plastic shell. Lamps with composite radiators are in demand due to the optimal price/quality tandem.

Ceramic cooler. It looks like plastic, but the material is heavier and smooth to the touch. F17

The ceramic radiator does not conduct current - this allows LED modules to be placed on the cooler, which leads to more intense heat dissipation

You should not rely on a ceramic radiator in cheap products. However, there is no point in avoiding plastic coolers - they last a long time and will definitely “work out” the money spent.

Lamps with a corrugated aluminum or ceramic radiator can be installed where heat dissipation is critical. A striking example is lamps built into furniture or the under-ceiling space of a stretch fabric.

Additional features of diode spotlights

LED light bulbs are rightfully considered a smart device; some of them, in addition to performing the main task, have additional functionality.

The most popular option is the ability to adjust the brightness of the light. This function is not provided in all LED lamps, but only in models with a built-in dimmer.

Diode light bulbs do not change the shade of lighting when the brightness decreases; the minimum degree of dimming is about 5-20%. Products that support luminous flux adjustment are marked - Dimmable

Some modifications are equipped with RGB LEDs that emit a full range of rainbow colors. For off-line operation, LED lamps are complemented by a built-in power supply battery.

High-tech devices are equipped with pulse drivers with microcircuits that allow you to control the lighting in the room remotely or via Wi-Fi

Working life and warranty period

The average operating period of diode products is 10-40 thousand hours. This means working normally for about 3-4 years in a residential environment. In practice, the service life of light bulbs may exceed this value.

Recent developments by European and Japanese manufacturers allow us to talk about increasing the performance of lamps up to 100 thousand hours. And even after this period, the illuminator continues to function, but with a decrease in brightness by 30-40%.

However, there are products that fail within the first three to four months of operation. Quick breakdown is typical for cheap Chinese products.

The quality of an LED lamp is largely determined by the manufacturing company - in this regard, savings are not justified. Reliable manufacturers provide a product warranty of up to five years

After purchasing a light bulb, you need to take a photo of the receipt. If the lamp fails ahead of schedule, you can exchange it under warranty by presenting a photo if the receipt fades or is lost.

Review of popular brands of LED products

The ranking of the most popular LED products is headed by light bulbs from Philips and Osram. European manufacturers strictly control the quality of their products. Of course, this approach affects the cost, but given the durability, their price is quite justified. The operating parameters of German lamps correspond to the declared characteristics.

A worthy and more affordable alternative is the products of Bioledex (Germany), FKK (Japan), Nichia (Japan).

The companies have a reputation as reliable manufacturers and have been setting a high bar for the quality of diode lamps for several years now.

Among transnational and domestic projects, the products of the following companies received a worthy assessment:

• Newera(Russia/China) – a trademark of the SVeto-Led brand on the diode technology market for about 10 years, the main advantage is the price/quality balance;
• Ecola(Russia/China) – has a developed retail sales network;
• Gauss(Russia) – the company is actively implementing latest technologies, experiments with design and controls quality;
• Optogan(Russia) – the level and safety of products are confirmed by the “Russian nanotechnological products” mark;
• Uniel(Russia) – a variety of series of LED lamps, the main advantages of the products: no flicker, high color rendering index, reasonable price, stylish design; warranty – 2 years.

Separately, it is necessary to mention Chinese-made diode lamps. You definitely shouldn’t buy products from nameless manufacturers. Light bulbs from non-name manufacturers do not meet safety standards and declared characteristics. At best, the soffit will shine a little and stop working; at worst, it will harm others.

There are also certified ones on the market Chinese LED lamps. Products from the following companies received good reviews: Brawex, Selecta, Camelion and Estares

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Detailed instructions on determining a high-quality diode light bulb, checking for flicker:

Testing products of popular brands. Advantages and disadvantages of lamps produced by Philips, Canyon and Osram:

Replacing old incandescent light bulbs with technically advanced LED lighting has many positive aspects. In order for LEDs to realize their maximum efficiency and fully recoup the money spent, you should wisely approach the issue of their choice - evaluate a number of parameters and check their performance.