kichen lighting

[Welstead]

i would like a good bright light in the kitchen but cannot find a good light. one without it looking like a xmas tree. i have had fulrecent but they look out of date. can you advise some. Thanks!

 

[RF Lighting]

There is nothing better for kitchens than a fluorescent fitting. Fit it with a prismatic diffuser if you want it to look nicer.

 

[Welstead]

thanks !
i have fould that the plastic covers stops the light a lot. the new lights are not as good as the old ones unless its shop lighting. please tell me more!

 

[Steve]

Yeah, fulrecents are a good source of light. Nowadays, they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Obviously striplights are the best option, as they cast few shadows, not being a point source.

A few ideas for "alternative fluorescents":

If you like downlighters:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_Index/Lighting_Menu_Index/GUFRD_Fireguard/index.html

You wont need many of these, they are high output, designed primarily for commercial use:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In..._L1_Internal/Commercial_Downlights/index.html

Eyeball downlight:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In..._Internal/Downlights_Energy_Saving/index.html

Fit any standard spot fitting with these:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In...Tubes_Index/Lamps_Energy_Reflector/index.html

Standard fluorescent diffusers:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In...luorescent_Index/Flo_Single_Access/index.html

Standard and diffused fluorescent lamps:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In..._Index/Fluorescent_Batten_Fittings/index.html

If you are buying a new tube fitting, make sure its got an electronic ballast, these are more controlled and quicker to start, none of that flickering nonsense, and no starters to wear out or change!

 

[Welstead]

Crafty thanks!

I would like to buy from a local diy store, so keep the emails coming!

 

[DESL]

High Frequency fittings with Tri Phophour tubes will give you good lighting

Most kitchens will benefit from good under cupboard lighting.

I rarely use the main lighting in my own kitchen just under cupboard link lights

 

[Steve]

Welstead, I'm not sure if the DIY sheds will stock HF fluorescent tube fittings, but if you can pluck up the courage to go to a wholesalers, they will have them. I forgot to mention, they dont vibrate or hum and are therefore quieter to start and run.

I think the ideal combo is a few fluorescent downlight fittings on the ceiling (they give off much more/better light than standard halogen downlights). Then have the "ugly" tube fittings under the cupboards for worktop lighting. But its all your choice, or she who must be obeyed.

Bear in mind, fluorescent lights are not normally dimmable.

TLC is a very good website, one of a few that you dont need an account to purchase from. Next day delivery on most items (be wary of "special delivery" and "fragile" items though). TLC will also be quite a bit cheaper than your local shed.

 

[DESL]

Welstead if you want HF fittings or low energy downlights try WF Electrical they're in Basingstoke, Eastleigh & Southampton.

 

[Welstead]

Thanks for the comments!
But if you have any more ,i would be happy to here from you!