Did you know that lighting in a typical home can account for up to 25% of your total monthly electric bill? By upgrading your lighting to a low energy equivalent, you can substantially reduce this figure. And what better way to do that than with a stylish upgraded GU10 LED.

The GU10 fitting is one of the most common light bulb fittings in the world. Originally designed as a main voltage replacement for the MR16, this type of bulb has gained popularity due to its unique combination of compact design and ease of use. Unlike the conventional MR16, GU10s do not require a “step down” transformer, instead operating directly from the mains (240V), making them much easier to maintain and a bit more practical.

This also means that you will have fewer problems when switching to GU10 LEDs. If you’re running a low voltage MR16 system, your existing transformers may be incompatible with the LEDs. Older transformers tend to lack the necessary parts to manage the exact voltage and current requirements of the LEDs or to compensate for their very low power consumption. Your bulbs may flicker or not work at all, and the cost of upgrading to LED drivers is quite high.

Since GU10 luminaires work without a transformer, LED GU10 can be used in the same luminaires without complication. Just take out your existing halogen bulbs and put in your new LED bulbs.

The energy savings offered by the GU10 LED is unmatched on the market at this current time. LEDs convert more of the energy they use into light, making them approximately 90% cheaper than standard halogen bulbs and about 3 times cheaper than CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps). They can also be made to roughly the same dimensions as the standard halogen design, allowing them to be used in recessed fixtures. (some bulbs may be a little longer so we recommend checking product specifications before purchasing)

The typical life expectancy of a GU10 LED is between 30,000 and 50,000 hours. This works out to about 20-25 times more than halogen and about 10 times more than CFL. Since they need to be replaced less frequently, LED GU10 saves you money on replacement cost.

A less recognized advantage relates to heat generation. During use, halogen bulbs reach very high temperatures, which can damage fixtures and décor and ultimately shorten the bulb’s life. It can also present a serial fire hazard as the halogens can eventually explode. LEDs produce comparatively little heat, even when used for long periods of time. While it is not true to say that they do not produce heat, as many manufacturers and retailers erroneously claim, it is fair to say that they are very safe. They can even be used in close proximity to insulation, but you should always take the necessary precautions if this is the case.