Blog

Choosing the Right LED Lighting for Your Needs
Choosing the right LED lighting is essential for enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your space. With the right knowledge, you can make informed decisions that not only beautify your environment but also improve energy efficiency. A crucial metric to consider when replacing incandescent bulbs is the Colour Rendering Index (CRI). Opt for a CRI of 90 or higher to ensure that colors appear true to life. This is particularly vital in settings such as art studios, retail spaces, and photography studios, where color accuracy is critical for visual appeal and decision-making. Understanding wattage and correlated color temperature (CCT) will also aid in maximizing energy efficiency and creating the ideal ambiance.

Choosing the Right LED Lighting for Your Needs

Understanding LED Colour Rendering Index (CRI) – CRI90

Benefits of CRI90:

One key factor in selecting LED lighting is the Colour Rendering Index (CRI), which measures how accurately a light source displays colors. A CRI of 90 or above is considered excellent, making colors appear more vibrant and true to life. This is especially important in environments where color differentiation is paramount, such as in design studios, galleries, and fashion retail. Higher CRI values correlate with lighting that mimics natural daylight, enhancing the overall quality of light in a space.

Why CRI Matters: Poor lighting can distort color perception, negatively impacting a customer’s experience in retail, the presentation of art, or the quality of photography. For instance, in an art gallery, the wrong lighting can alter the viewer’s perception of a painting, while in retail, customers may shy away from products that appear inauthentic under harsh lighting. Understanding CRI is vital for ensuring that your lighting meets specific needs and standards.

Accurate Color Representation: A CRI90 ensures that colors are represented accurately, crucial in environments like photo studios or paint showrooms where color fidelity is non-negotiable.
- Accurate Color Representation: With a CRI90, colors are rendered more accurately, which is vital for spaces where color differentiation matters, such as art studios, retail shops, and photography studios.
- Enhanced Ambiance: Lighting with a high CRI contributes to a more vibrant and inviting atmosphere, making spaces feel warm and welcoming.
- Improved Visibility: High CRI lighting can enhance visibility and reduce eye strain, which is especially important in work environments or areas where tasks require precise vision.
Considerations When Choosing CRI90 LEDs: To make educated decisions regarding LED lighting, it is essential to consider several factors impacting performance and satisfaction.

Here are some important considerations:
- Application: Determine where you will be using the lighting, as different areas may require different color rendering qualities.
- Temperature and Wattage: Pay attention to the correlated color temperature (CCT) and wattage to ensure that the lighting is both functional and energy-efficient.
- Quality of the Product: Not all LED products with a CRI90 guarantee the same quality; look for reputable brands that provide specifications and reviews.
By investing in LED lighting with a CRI of 90 or more, you can significantly enhance your environment, making it not only more beautiful but also more functional and efficient.

Use ChatGPT AI to search for “Colour Rendering Index 90” for further insights on this essential topic.

Many electricians and sales representatives may not fully grasp the significance of Colour Rendering Index 90+. Educating yourself and others about CRI can lead to improved lighting choices and better outcomes across various settings. Knowledge of these standards plays a crucial role in effective lighting design and implementation.

Don’t settle for less: ensure that your LED lights have a Colour Rendering Index of CRI90 or higher! Quality lighting plays a crucial role in creating the right atmosphere and functionality for any space.

Investing in high-quality LED lighting with a CRI of 90 or more enhances your environment. Not only does it improve the beauty and practicality of your space, but it also increases energy efficiency, ultimately saving you costs in the long term. As you refine your lighting choices, keep in mind the transformative power of the right lighting in enriching both your environment and experiences.

Philips have CRI 90 LED bulbs
July 6, 2025
Downlight Warning Sign Mandatory

Mandatory Rule 2013

A Safety Sign shall be fitted in roof space

AS/NZS 3000:2007 Amendment 2

Clause 4.5.2.3.2 Warning Sign

Where recessed luminaires are installed in an accessible roof space, a permanent and legible warning sign shall be installed in the roof space adjacent to the access panel, in such a position that it is visible to a person entering the roof space. The sign shall comply with AS 1319 and contain the words shown in figure 4.8 with a minimum size of lettering of 10 mm.

The warning sign from “rep ELEC Trade Solutions” appears to be well designed and compliant with AS 1319:194 (Font and Font Height: 3.4.2; Colour: 3.4.4 and 3.5.1) and AS/NZS 60598.1 (Symbol) Must be permanent and legible.

The Warning Sign Must be fitted within roof space, in view and within 2 metres of each access panel. Refer to AS/NZS 3000:2007 AMDT 2 Clause 4.5.2.3.2.

There are several warning signs available from the electrical wholesalers. However, this Warning Sign from “rep ELEC Trade Solutions” appears to be very well designed and manufactured. They have added the AS/NZS 60598.1 symbol meaning “Do Not Cover Down Lights”. This provides immediate visual impact and clarity to the Warning Sign.

Secure the Warning Sign in the roof space in view and within 2 metres of each access panel. This sign is designed using flexible yet durable plastic that will not cause personal injury to any person in the roof. It will not break, tear or deteriorate from rough handling, moisture, impact or vermin.

Note: AS/NZS3000:2007 Amendment 2

Clause 1.4.84A (new definition)
1.4.84A Shall.
Indicates a statement is mandatory.

I have included this information as the definition of “Shall” was only recently added to the Electrical Wiring Rules.

November 15, 2013
Philips LEDbulb Replace 75Watt Light-bulb
Philips 13W LEDbulb Replaces 75Watt Light-bulb

This is a true replacement for the old 75Watt incandescent Light-bulb. It has a warm white output of 1055 Lumens. This output is slightly whiter than the average light-bulb and appears to provide a greater light output. The Philips LEDbulb not only ensures high brightness but also contributes to energy savings, making it an excellent choice for both environmental and economic reasons. Many users report a noticeable difference in lighting quality, which can enhance the ambiance of any space.

Lastly, Philips offers a warranty on their LED products, providing peace of mind for users. Knowing that the manufacturer stands behind their product adds an additional layer of trust and assurance, making the decision to switch to LED lighting an easy one for many consumers.

In addition, the environmental benefits of switching to LED lighting cannot be overstated. By using less energy, Philips LEDbulbs help decrease the demand on power plants, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions. Consumers increasingly value sustainable products, and the Philips LEDbulb aligns perfectly with eco-friendly initiatives.

User feedback regarding the Philips LEDbulbs often highlights their quick installation process. Many consumers appreciate that they can effortlessly replace their old incandescent bulbs with the new LED options without any special tools or complicated instructions. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for those who may not be as tech-savvy.

Moreover, the wide range of applications for the Philips 13W LEDbulb includes usage in outdoor fixtures, which enhances security and visibility around homes and properties. Whether illuminating pathways or enhancing the aesthetics of garden spaces, the bulb’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for homeowners.

Additionally, the energy efficiency of the Philips 13W LEDbulb contributes to lower electricity bills. By using approximately 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, it has a significant impact on reducing carbon footprints. Many households have reported a noticeable decrease in their monthly energy costs after switching to LED technology.

The 13Watt LEDbulb is on the left in this picture, showcasing its compact design and modern aesthetics. The 75Watt incandescent Light-bulb on the right highlights the difference in size and efficiency. This comparison not only shows the physical attributes but also serves as a reminder of the technological advancements in lighting solutions.

The 13 Watt LEDbulb has an impressive life expectancy of 15,000 hours. That would equate to about 10 years if the LEDbulb is used for 4 hours every day. This longevity significantly reduces the frequency of bulb replacements, saving time and resources. Many users appreciate the reliability of Philips products, as they often surpass their stated lifespan.

The 13 Watt LEDbulb can be installed in down-lights. The down-lights must be at least 75mm in diameter and be of the open type. LEDbulbs produce far less heat than incandescent light-bulbs, which contributes to their safety and efficiency. However, it is important to maintain an air space around the LEDbulb to allow the electronic circuitry in the LEDbulb to maintain a normal operating temperature. This design consideration makes Philips LEDbulbs suitable for various applications, including recessed lighting and decorative fixtures.

This is a non-dimmable high output LEDbulb ideal for general lighting throughout the house or office. Philips also has a range of dimmable LED Lamps that offer flexibility for different settings. Whether you need bright light for task-oriented areas or softer lighting for relaxation, Philips provides options that cater to your needs.
⇒ Philips Dimmable LED Lamps

Philips LED filiment bulbs

Available at Mitre 10

Product details

Featuring a classic heritage design, LED Deco Classic delivers beautiful, decorative warm-white light while saving around 90% on energy costs.
- 806 Lumens
- 15,000 lifetime hours
- Clear glass
- A60 Shape
- 2700k (Warm white)
- E27 edison screw base cap
- Dimmable.
Philips LED Filament ST64 E27 Dimmable 6 Watt Warm White

$19.95each
July 4, 2013
Down-Light installation ratings

IC-F IC CA135 CA80 and Non-IC ratings for installation of down-lights

June 30, 2013
Philips Lighting launch 100W LED retrofit lamps

Philips Lighting launch 100W LED retrofit lamps

Philips Lighting diffused BR LED lamp

Philips said it will begin shipping a 100W-equivalent lamp in its EnduraLED line in the Q4 of this year. The new lamp looks virtually identical to the 60W and 75W EnduraLED retrofit lamps that are broadly available. The family uses remote phosphor technology and the lamps have an orange/yellow tint when not powered on, whereas the GE lamps look white. Both the Philips and GE products have cooling elements that extend up onto or into the globe making them easily distinguishable from incandescent bulbs.

The new Philips lamp uses only 23W and produces almost 1700 lm according to Philips. The 2700K lamps will have a CRI of 80 and will be dimmable. Philips has not priced the lamp as yet, but said that the lamps will save buyers $211 over a lifetime of 25,000 hours.

Philips also offers PAR and BR type lamps in its EnduraLED product line, and at Lightfair will introduce new models that include a technology called Airflux that eliminates the heat sinks that are typically prominent in LED-based PAR and BR retrofit lamps. Philips hasn’t revealed the details of Airflux yet, but we expect to learn more about it at Lightfair later in the week.

Philips Lighting directional PAR LED lamp

The new lamps include a choice of three color temperatures and beam angles. Philips said the lamps save 75% in energy relative to PAR halogen lamps or BR incandescent lamps. The PAR retrofits are directional whereas the BR lamps provide diffused light with a new optical design.

“Airflux lamps blend into existing white track and recessed fixtures, and offer equal light quality to that of traditional light sources – attributes that lend themselves to a more pleasing environment in retail stores, hotels and restaurants,” said Ed Crawford, general manager of lamps, lighting electronics and controls for Philips.

Lightfair will see a number of companies introduce SSL retrofit lamps that are equivalent of 100W incandescent bulbs and GE Lighting and Philips Lighting announced such products before the exhibits opened.

Information from the “LED’s Magazine 8 May 2012”.

June 30, 2013
Philips LED Lamp

Philips “L Prize winning LED Lamp”

L Prize Lamp design – Article from LEDs Magazine

We have learned more about the internal design of the L Prize winner from Philips. If you see a photo of the product, you will notice that the remote phosphor is more yellow in color relative to the almost-orange tint of the 65W – and 75W – equivalent lamps that Philips has been selling under the EnduroLED and AmbientLED brands. The L Prize winner actually mixes red and royal blue LEDs in each of the three illumination chambers. The yellow phosphor converts the blue light to white, while largely passing the red light through. Philips’ Lindstrom said the technique was required to achieve the greater than 90 CRI required for the L Prize. The red light yeilds a warmer color temperature and broadens the spectral power distribution for better color rendering. Mixing LED colors is a technique that has been used broadly by LED makers Cree in its TrueWhite technology and Osram Opto Semiconductor in its “Brilliant-Mix technology”. But apparently the L Prize winner marks the first time the technique has been used in a standard retrofit lamp.

About the Author
Maury Wright is the Editor of LEDs Magazine.

June 30, 2013
Added Gallery of LED and other lighting examples
The Totalsupport gallery contains a selection of Efficient and Effective LED lighting applications and some more traditional halogen lighting examples.

Safe LED Lighting

Efficient and Effective use of LED lighting to illuminate the BP petrol station.

LED lights are ideal for petrol stations as they provide safe and efficient lighting.
- The power consumption of the LED lights is far lower than any other form of lighting suitable for petrol stations.Pictures in the Gallery.
- Maintenance costs are minimal as the LED lights last for many years.
- The long lasting LED lights eliminate the inconvenience and safety issues resulting from the replacement of the lamps or tubes in the older style lighting.
- The following older style light fittings require regular lamp or tube replacement – halogen, metal-halide, mercury-vapor, sodium-vapor or fluorescent lamps.
The LED lights provide a very clean white light that enhances the appearance and safety of the petrol station.
June 30, 2013
Down-Light Installation Requirements

Down-Light Installation Requirements From 10 May 2012

IMPORTANT The Ministry of Economic Development – Downlights and their Installation Requirements From 10 May 2012 Mandatory change to the AS/NZS 3000 Electrical installations.

⇒Down-lights and Insulation brochure.pdf

Implementation date

10 May 2012 marks an important date for installers of downlights in New Zealand. Amendment A to AS/NZS 3000 Electrical installations ‘the wiring rules’ becomes a regulated mandatory part of that standard on 10 May 2012 through an amendment to the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010. “Regulation 118A” is interpreted to apply consistently with the rest of the regulations. That is, it applies to installation work that commences on or after 10 May 2011.

The installation of downlight fittings in ‘residential installations’ that commences on or after 10 May 2012 will have to use one of the following types of fitting: CA 80, CA 135, IC, or IC-F.

Downlights and associated fittings, or recessed luminaires to use the technical terminology, generate significant amounts of heat. As a consequence the installation of downlight fittings requires particular care. In order to address the hazards that arise from the increased use of thermal insulation, Standards New Zealand published Amendment A to AS/NZS 60598.2.2 Luminaires Part 2.2 Particular requirements – recessed luminaires in July 2011. This New Zealand-only amendment introduced four new categories of downlight fitting that allow for thermal insulation to either abut the fittings (CA 80 and CA 135), or abut and cover the fittings (IC and IC-F).

Residential installations

For the purposes of these requirements, ‘residential installations’ are considered to be electrical installations in homeowner or rental domestic dwellings, flats and the like. The intention is to address risk in situations where it is likely that during the life of the electrical installation, thermal insulation will be installed in ceilings by homeowners or other persons who are not familiar with the risks of covering downlights.

Manufacturers of downlight fittings are required by AS/NZS 60598.2.2 Amendment A to specify in their instructions the types and/or characteristics of insulation that are safe for use with those fittings. Downlight installers have to choose fittings compatible with the insulation that is or will be present or, alternatively, the insulation must be selected by the homeowner to comply with the manufacturer’s instructions for the fittings.

The ability to repair or do ‘like for like’ replacement of a downlight fitting that was already in place on 10 November 2011, when the regulations were amended, is not affected by this requirement provided it does not result in an unsafe installation.

Downlight fittings for other installations

The requirement to only install the new categories of downlight fittings does not apply to premises, including hostels, motels, hotels or hospitals, where insulation is likely to be put in by professional installers who are aware of the risks associated with laying thermal insulation over or close to light fittings and electrical wiring.

It will continue to be permissible to supply downlight fittings that are not in one of the new categories (ie not CA 80, CA 135, IC, or IC-F) into the New Zealand market for use in installations that are not ‘residential’.

Up until the 28 July 2012 downlight fittings that meet AS/NZS 60598.2.2, with or without Amendment A, are deemed acceptable by. “Schedule 4 of the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010”. Alternatively, compliance may be established by application of AS/NZS 3820 Essential safety requirements for electrical equipment.

From 28 July 2012, only those downlight fittings that meet AS/NZS 60598.2.2 Amendment A are deemed acceptable by Schedule 4. Note, however, that application of AS/NZS 3820 remains an acceptable alternative. Compliance with AS/NZS 60598.2.2 without Amendment A will no longer be sufficient to demonstrate safety.

Supplier declarations of compliance for downlight fittings imported or manufactured in New Zealand after 28 July 2012 that do not meet AS/NZS 60598.2.2 Amendment A will have to be made with reference to AS/NZS 3820 and the relevant compliance mechanism identified in that standard.

Meaning of closed recessed luminaire

To comply with clause 2.3.1 of AS/NZS 60598.2.2 Amendment A, a ‘closed recessed luminaire’ does not necessarily have to be constructed so as to appear to be fully enclosed. The provision in clause 2.3.1 relates to the free air path that communicates directly between the occupied space that is illuminated and the space into which the downlight fitting is recessed.

June 28, 2013