Many homes around Ascot and the surrounding areas still have older halogen spotlights. While these were popular for years, modern LED lighting now offers a far more efficient and practical alternative.
Recently, we upgraded 34 halogen spotlights to 5W LED fittings for a client in Ascot, reducing their lighting energy use by over 90%.
LED upgrades are one of the simplest ways to cut electricity bills — but they aren’t always just a straightforward lamp change.
In this article, we’ll explain the main benefits, the potential downsides, and what you should know before upgrading your own spotlights.
The Benefits of Upgrading to LED Spotlights
1. Much Lower Energy Consumption
Traditional halogen spotlights typically use around 50 watts per lamp.
Modern LED spotlights can produce the same light output using just 5 watts.
In our recent Ascot project:
- 34 halogen lights used around 1,700 watts in total
- After upgrading to LEDs, this dropped to just 170 watts
That’s a reduction of over 90% in energy use, which can equate to hundreds of pounds per year in savings, depending on usage and electricity tariffs.
2. Longer Lifespan & Lower Maintenance
Halogen lamps usually last between 2,000–3,000 hours.
Quality LED spotlights can last 20,000–30,000 hours or more.
This means:
- Fewer lamp changes
- Less disruption
- Lower long-term maintenance costs
3. Less Heat & Improved Safety
Halogen lamps generate a large amount of heat. Over time this can:
- Discolour ceilings
- Dry out fittings
- Increase fire risk, particularly near insulation
LEDs run much cooler, improving safety and protecting ceilings and fittings.
4. Better Light Quality & Choice
Modern LED fittings are available in:
- Warm white (ideal for living spaces)
- Cool white (great for kitchens and bathrooms)
- Various beam angles and brightness levels
When chosen correctly, LEDs can improve both the look and feel of a room.
The Potential Downsides (And Why They Matter)
While LED upgrades offer big advantages, there are a few things homeowners should be aware of.
1. Higher Upfront Cost
LED fittings cost more than halogen lamps, and there may be additional labour involved if fittings or controls need replacing.
However, this cost is usually recovered quickly through:
- Lower electricity bills
- Fewer replacements
- Reduced maintenance
For most homes, the payback period is relatively short.
2. Compatibility with Dimmers & Transformers
Older installations often include:
- Halogen transformers
- Traditional dimmer switches
These are not always compatible with LED lighting and can cause:
- Flickering
- Buzzing
- Lamps failing prematurely
Part of a professional upgrade is checking and replacing incompatible components where needed.
3. Choosing the Right Colour & Brightness
LED wattage doesn’t relate directly to brightness in the same way halogens did. Brightness is measured in lumens, not watts.
If the wrong lamps are chosen, rooms can feel:
- Too bright
- Too cool in colour
- Or not bright enough
Correct selection is key to achieving comfortable, natural-looking lighting.
4. Not Always a Simple Lamp Swap
Some older spotlight fittings:
- Are not suitable for LED lamps
- Are not fire-rated
- Are not safe near insulation
In many cases, upgrading the actual fittings is the safest and most reliable solution — particularly in modern insulated ceilings.
5. Ceiling Cut-Outs & Cosmetic Issues
Occasionally:
- New fittings may not perfectly match old cut-out sizes
- Older ceilings may show marks once fittings are changed
These are minor issues, but worth being aware of in advance.
Why Professional Installation Matters
DIY LED upgrades often focus only on changing the lamp, without considering:
- Fire safety
- Heat build-up
- Electrical compatibility
- Compliance with current regulations
A proper installation ensures:
- Safe fittings
- Correct dimming operation
- Suitable light levels
- Long-term reliability
At Thames Valley Electricians Ltd, we always assess each installation properly before carrying out an upgrade.
Is an LED Upgrade Worth It?
In most cases, yes.
Despite the upfront cost, LED spotlight upgrades usually provide:
- Significant long-term savings
- Improved safety
- Better lighting quality
- Reduced maintenance
Our recent Ascot project is a good example — cutting lighting energy use by over 90% while maintaining excellent light levels throughout the home.
Thinking About Upgrading Your Spotlights?
If your home still uses halogen lighting and you’re considering an upgrade, we’re happy to advise on:
- Suitable fittings
- Colour temperature choices
- Dimming compatibility
- Expected savings
📍 Based in Bracknell and covering Ascot,Crowthorne,Wokingham and the surrounding areas
📞 Contact Thames Valley Electricians Ltd for friendly, professional advice
