Low Voltage Lighting Disadvantages And Limitations

Although low voltage indoor lighting can offer a homeowner many advantages, there are also some disadvantages that come from using this type of lighting.

In this article we shall have a look at some of these advantages and disadvantages that come from using low energy lighting in your home.

Life Span Sensitivity Of Low Voltage Lighting

Fluorescent bulbs have the longest lifespan when they are left on for long periods of time.

However if they are switched on and off rapidly (such as in cupboard lighting), their lifespan can be drastically reduced.

Low Voltage Lighting Can Be Hazardous To Your Health

Fluorescent lighting contains mercury which is extremely toxic, and can create a severe health hazard if the bulb or tube is accidentally broken within the home.

If this occurs, it is recommended to ventilate the room for at least 15 minutes before re-entering.

In addition to the home hazards fluorescent lights present, there are also environmental concerns regarding how fluorescent lights are disposed.

Mercury can contaminate the environment polluting both land and water, which ultimately may enter our food supply.

Lack Of Lighting Control

Not all forms of low voltage lighting are compatible with standard lighting control equipment, such as timers or dimmers. However some newer models are compatible, although they are generally more expensive.

Another disadvantage, especially with fluorescent lighting, is its size. Fluorescent tubes are large and may detract from the overall appearance of a room.

Compact fluorescent bulbs may be physically too large to fit in some lighting holders, which were originally designed to accommodate incandescent bulbs.

Low Voltage Lights Need Time To “Warm Up”

Low voltage fluorescent lighting is notorious for its slow flickering start-up, and gradual warming before it reaches maximum brightness.

In addition to this, some people do not like the colour of the light emitted by fluorescent bulbs.

However it should be pointed out that there are newer fluorescent bulbs which provide a variety of light colour, do not flicker and achieve full brightness very quickly.

But these are generally more expensive than the regular low energy fluorescent bulbs.

Low Voltage Lighting Limitations

Not all forms of low voltage lighting are suitable for all lighting needs. For example, fluorescent lighting is best suited for general lighting, whereas LED and halogen-tungsten bulbs are best suited for task or specific lighting.

However recent developments in LED and halogen-tungsten light design, are now enabling these energy efficient lights to also be used for general lighting.

Cost Of Low Voltage Lighting

At the moment the cheapest forms of low voltage indoor lighting are fluorescent, and halogen-tungsten lights. Although newer models of these which incorporate new technology, still tend to be more expensive.

LED lighting is the most efficient form of low voltage lighting, however it is still relatively expensive in comparison to other low voltage lights.