
Mini spots
Light sources with a push-fit, recognizable by their 'G' coding, are small bulbs with two metal pins that you insert into the fixture. The 'G' refers to the historic glass material of the pins, and the number indicates the distance between the pins in millimeters. Whereas halogen push-fit bulbs were once the standard, LED is now the norm. These energy-efficient LED versions last much longer and offer more flexibility in light colour and dimming options, making them suitable for a wide variety of practical and decorative lights.
The world of push-fit lamp holders includes various types, each with unique features and applications. It's wise to know the differences in order to choose the right light source for your situation.
Type of Holder | Pin Distance (mm) | Voltage | Features | Common Applications |
---|---|---|---|---|
G4 | 4 | 12V (requires transformer) | Very compact, spot lighting | Display cabinets, furniture lighting, cooker hoods, decorative fixtures |
G9 | 9 | 230V (direct to mains) | Compact loop-shaped pins, no transformer needed | Wall lamps, ceiling lights, small spotlights, reading lamps |
GY6.35 | 6.35 | 12V (requires transformer) | Similar to G4, slightly sturdier | Spots, directional lighting in shops and museums, furniture lighting |
R7s | Double-ended | 230V | Long, rod-shaped lamp with pins at both ends | Floodlights, work lamps, floor lamps, ceiling lamps |
G12 | 12 | 230V | Compact two-pin holder, often for discharge lamps | Project lighting, accent lighting in retail and galleries |
When switching from traditional push-fit lamps to LED versions, there are some important considerations to ensure a smooth transition and make the most of LED’s benefits.
Many push-fit lamps, such as G4 and GY6.35, operate at a low voltage of 12 Volts. This means they require a transformer to convert the 230 Volt mains voltage to a safe and suitable level. When switching to LED versions, it is crucial that the existing transformer is compatible with LED. Old halogen transformers may have a minimum load that is too high, causing LED lamps to flicker or not work at all. Installing a transformer designed for LED is then necessary. Lamps with a G9 or R7s fitting generally operate directly on 230 Volts and do not require a separate transformer.
Although LED push-fit lamps have the same fitting as their halogen predecessors, their physical size may differ. LED lamps are sometimes slightly larger than halogen lamps due to the components required for LED technology and heat dissipation. Always check the exact dimensions of the LED lamp you wish to purchase and compare them with the available space in your fixture. This prevents the lamp from not fitting or having insufficient space to dissipate heat, which can affect its lifespan.
Want to control the brightness of your push-fit lighting? Many LED push-fit lamps are dimmable, but they require a specific LED dimmer. Conventional dimmers are designed for higher wattages and can cause issues like flickering, buzzing, or even LED lamp failure. An LED dimmer is optimized for the low wattages of LED and ensures a smooth and stable dimming experience. When choosing a dimmer, pay attention to the minimum and maximum load and ensure it matches the total wattage of the connected LED lamps.
Thanks to their various types and available light colours, push-fit lamp holders can be used in many places.
The compact shape of push-fit lamps makes them versatile for different purposes. They are often used as accent lighting in display cabinets, under kitchen cabinets, and in cooker hoods to illuminate worktops. In retail they provide focused lighting on products, while in the hospitality sector they contribute to atmospheric lighting in hotel rooms and corridors. Additionally, G4 and GY6.35 lamps can also be found in various vehicles such as caravans and campers thanks to their low energy consumption and small size. R7s lamps with higher light output are suitable for general lighting in large spaces or even for outdoor lighting, provided they are installed in a suitable fixture.
The light colour of a lamp, measured in Kelvin (K), significantly affects the atmosphere and functionality of a space. Push-fit lamps are available in various light colours so you can always create the right mood:
The colour rendering index (CRI), which indicates how true to nature colours are displayed, is also a relevant specification. For applications where colour accuracy is important (for example in shops or galleries), a CRI value of 80 or higher is recommended.
With the right knowledge about fittings, voltage, and compatibility you can efficiently switch to LED push-fit lamps and enjoy sustainable, tailor-made lighting in various applications.