Low-voltage 12V lamps are one of the most common lighting options. Such devices do not differ in high performance and radiation coverage compared to street lamps and spotlights, but at the same time, no modern home can do without them. We are talking about Led-models, which for several years on the market have been able to noticeably replace traditional sources of home lighting. LED 12V lamps are used both as spot lighting elements and for highlighting individual decorative niches, and even in ensembles of landscape and architectural complexes.
General information about 12V LED lamps
LED devices differ in performance properties and sophisticated design, which also expands the control of such lamps. In terms of performance, almost all LED products show high levels of durability, energy saving, brightness, light distribution uniformity, etc. In any case, when compared with competitive products that are also available on the market for the average user.
There are several features in terms of design. To begin with, it is worth noting that LED lamps12V for AC are equipped with special driver-converters. Thanks to this addition, the current goes into a constant state. To this it is worth adding the presence in the kits of diffusers, stabilizers, fuses and other auxiliary and protective equipment, which has become a prerequisite for equipping LEDs.
For what purposes should I buy 12V lamps?
Home use is the main focus for small-format luminaires, but decorative outdoor design is indispensable. And here it is important to take into account a significant limitation. The fact is that in the family of LED lamps, 12V models are considered the least protected and capricious to external influences. Therefore, for example, at temperatures above 40 ° C, it is undesirable to use them. This applies not only to direct sunlight, but also to lighting systems for saunas, baths, areas with boiler installations, etc. It is optimal to use 12V LED lamps as part of ceiling structures, in the design of design objects, as well as when illuminating small functional areas. The fact is that such models are not suitable for a full-fledged lighting function, but as a delicate, aesthetic and compact source, they may well find a place in any home.
Basic selection options
The paramount parameter is power. This indicator is usually from 2 to 6W. At the same time, it makes no sense to select one element of suchtype. As a rule, they are used in a complex in whole series. For this, special tapes, boxes or niches are purchased into which lamps can be integrated in groups. Again, the average power of such cells is 3W at 12V. But there is another nuance here. When choosing a transformer unit, one should take into account not the average power among the fixtures, but the total - this indicator will be controlled by the regulator. An important characteristic is the color temperature. In the middle segment, 12V LED lamps are presented, which provide temperatures in the range of 2700-6500K. Among them you can find models of yellow, cold and neutral shades.
Choose by design
The type of construction is mainly determined by the format of the plinth. For example, in the marking you can find the designations G and E. In the first case, the pin-type base is indicated, and in the second, the threaded mechanism. Also, next to the letter, the diameter of the connecting part is marked. That is, the user needs to have an idea in advance about the equipment into which the device is planned to be integrated. There will be no problems if you plan to install standard 12V LED lamps for the home. How to choose devices for such purposes? It is worth focusing on the E27 or E14 formats. These are the most common plinths. Special cases include the GU10, MR16 and R50 systems. Thanks to such plinths, you can get a rotary type device, install an element with a reflector, or use a reflexlamp, respectively.
Optimal light cone angle
Unlike classic incandescent and halogen lamps, LED models have more opportunities in terms of regulation of light dispersion. In practice, this means that the lamp will not cover with light the entire maximum space available to it, but only that part that is either provided for by the design or installed by the user. The aforementioned 12V LED reflector lamps provide the most favorable conditions in this regard. Such a model does not scatter light uselessly into unnecessary areas, but concentrates it on specific objects. Actually, this is the principle of the optimal spot lighting system, the characteristics and capabilities of which should also be taken into account.
How to install 12V LED bulbs?
Installation work should begin with the preparation of the power cable and the installation site of the lamp. Depending on the design of the cartridge and the type of components, the mechanics of integrating the device into the cartridge may differ. For example, special rings are sometimes offered to provide a damping and clamping effect between the lamp and the niche of the installation. The most problematic in the installation of ceiling LED lamps 12V for the home. The installation of such models should initially be carried out with the expectation of integration into the subceiling frame. The fact is that such devices are integrated directly into the structural basis of the false ceiling. At least in the same place, in a special niche, one shouldfix with clamps or brackets. But before that, you need to connect to the power supply line.
Which manufacturers to prefer?
The most worthy models in terms of quality are offered by Osram and Philips. The products of these companies are considered the most technologically advanced both in terms of functionality and basic performance. But these lamps are also the most expensive. As an alternative, experts also recommend Era, Gauss, Camelion, Feron and others. These lines offer affordable 12V LED lamps for the home, but their quality does not always match the level of the above two brands. However, it is not uncommon for some second-tier manufacturers to turn to the same Philips parts to complete their designs.
Conclusion
12V luminaire models occupy a special niche in the general segment of electrical engineering. Their specificity is due to a number of characteristics that knock out such models from the general range. It is enough to note the low power, modest voltage and small size. It would seem that, in addition to decorative qualities, modern 12V LED lamps are not able to attract anything. But it is not so. The combination of low power requirements and flexible configuration options in terms of placement greatly expands the scope of such devices. Of course, there are quite logical warnings from manufacturers, but when it comes to home lighting, the number of design variationsmay only be limited by the owner's imagination.
