One thing many people worry about when choosing LED bulbs is the base. Is it different? Do I need to change my whole light fitting?
The good news is that the majority have the same as you find in more traditional light fittings. The most popular by far in UK homes are B22 Lightbulbs with the standard bayonet style, all of which are installed in the usual way.
That means you simply push the bulb gently into the socket and twist until it locks.
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Why Choose LED B22 Lightbulbs?
All LED bulbs have greater energy efficiency than other makes, including traditional tungsten and CFL varieties (the bulbs that take a little while to warm up to full brightness). Not only that, they don’t give off any heat, so when you want to take out your B22 lightbulb, you don’t have to worry about burning your hand or waiting for it to cool down.
LED bulbs are a lot more robust, less easy to break and last a good few years longer than other types. They are the perfect choice for home owners and businesses who want to cut costs while living a greener, healthier life.
Where Are B22 Lightbulbs Used?
In the UK, you find B22 bayonet style bulbs all over the place. They’re the main fitting for ceiling lights and are found in many lamps (the others are the screw-in variety). You can easily recognise a socket that takes a B22 bulb because of the distinctive shape with two hooks for accepting the bayonet attachment.
Types of B22 LED Bulbs
Because they are the most popular fitting, B22 lightbulbs generally come in all shapes and sizes and manufacturers have been working overtime to produce them. You can find bright, clean white light bulbs, those with warmer effects or you can choose one of the many vintage varieties – a bulb that looks like a traditional tungsten light but is actually LED.
The great news is that LED technology has taken off big time in the last four or five years. A lot of research and development has gone into developing the market. You can get great equivalents to other B22 lightbulbs, including products that are now dimmable (something that used to be a problem for LED until a few years ago).
Most packs of LED bulbs list the equivalent wattage to other bulbs. For example, an 8W LED B22 lightbulb is the equal of a 60W normal bulb. That makes it easier for consumers replacing old bulbs.
Do I Have to Change the Light Fitting?
No. The B22 LED lightbulb fits into any bayonet socket and will operate just as well, if not better. The only thing you may need to do is update your dimmable switch if you have one, though many bulbs nowadays work with existing systems.
The Cost of B22 Bulbs
LED is slightly more expensive in the short term compared to the standard CFL bulb. Over the long term, however, it’s actually highly cost effective. Firstly, if you’re replacing a standard tungsten bulb, you can expect to save up to 80 or even 90% on your electricity for that socket. If you’re replacing CFLs, then it’s around 25-30%. When you take into account that LED B22 lightbulbs last a lot longer than other bulbs (up to five to ten years more), the slight difference in cost is small and the savings over the lifespan of the bulb can be really significant. You won’t make a better investment.
Choosing The Right LED Lightbulbs
If you check around your home, you’ll probably find that most of the major light fittings are for B22 lightbulbs. That makes it easier for you to replace once you know what to look for. Check out our wide range of LED bulbs and make a difference to your energy usage and your pocket today.