
Mini spots
Light sources with a push-fit holder, often indicated by a 'G' code, are small lamps with a compact design that makes them widely applicable. They are named after the two metal pins at the base, which are pushed into the fixture to establish an electrical connection. These pins ensure a stable and reliable fit. The letter 'G' historically refers to the glass material from which these pins were originally made. The number following the 'G' indicates the distance between the pins in millimeters. These lamps are commonly found in both functional and decorative fixtures.
Although traditional push-fit lamps, such as halogen variants, were the standard for years, LED technology has now become the norm. Switching to LED push-fit lamps offers significant benefits in terms of energy consumption, lifespan, and flexibility in light color and dimming options.
The world of push-fit lamp holders includes various types, each with unique characteristics and applications. It is wise to know the differences in order to choose the right light source for your situation.
Type of Holder | Pin Distance (mm) | Voltage | Characteristics | Common Applications |
---|---|---|---|---|
G4 | 4 | 12V (transformer required) | Very compact, spot lighting | Display cases, furniture lighting, cooker hoods, decorative fixtures |
G9 | 9 | 230V (direct to mains) | Compact loop-shaped pins, no transformer needed | Wall lights, ceiling fixtures, small spotlights, reading lamps |
GY6.35 | 6.35 | 12V (transformer required) | Similar to G4, slightly sturdier | Spotlights, accent lighting in shops and museums, furniture lighting |
R7s | Double-sided | 230V | Long, rod-shaped lamp with pins at both ends | Floodlights, construction lights, floor lamps, ceiling lights |
G12 | 12 | 230V | Compact two-pin holder, often for discharge lamps | Project lighting, accent lighting in shops and galleries |
When switching from traditional push-fit lamps to LED versions, there are several important considerations to ensure a smooth transition and make the most of LED benefits.
Many push-fit lamps, such as G4 and GY6.35, operate at a low voltage of 12 Volts. This means they require a transformer to convert the 230 Volt mains to a safe and suitable voltage. When switching to LED versions, it is crucial that the present transformer is suitable for LED. Old halogen transformers may have a minimum load that is too high, causing LED lamps to flicker or not work at all. Installing an LED-compatible transformer is then necessary. Lamps with a G9 or R7s holder usually work directly on 230 Volt and do not require a separate transformer.
Although LED push-fit lamps have the same holder as their halogen predecessors, physical dimensions may differ. LED lamps are sometimes slightly larger than halogen lamps due to required components for LED technology and heat dissipation. Always check the exact dimensions of the LED lamp you intend to purchase and compare them with the available space in your fixture. This prevents the lamp from not fitting or having insufficient space for heat release, which affects lifespan.
Do you want to control the brightness of your push lighting? Many LED push-fit lamps are dimmable, but require a specific LED dimmer. Conventional dimmers are designed for higher wattages and can cause problems such as flickering, buzzing or even the failure of LED lamps. An LED dimmer is optimized for the low wattages of LED and ensures a smooth and stable dimming experience. When choosing a dimmer, pay attention to the minimum and maximum load and make sure it matches the total wattage of the connected LED lamps.
Thanks to their diverse types and available light colors, push-fit lamp holders can be used in many places.
The compact form of push-fit lamps makes them widely usable for various purposes. They are often used as accent lighting in display cabinets, under kitchen cabinets and in cooker hoods to illuminate worktops. In retail, they provide focused lighting on products, while in the hospitality sector they contribute to atmospheric lighting in hotel rooms and corridors. In addition, G4 and GY6.35 lamps can also be found in various vehicles such as caravans and motorhomes due to their low energy consumption and small size. R7s lamps with higher light output are suitable for general lighting in large spaces or even as outdoor lighting, provided they are placed in a suitable fixture.
The light color of a lamp, expressed in Kelvin (K), significantly affects the atmosphere and functionality of a space. Push-fit lamps are available in various light colors, so you can always create the right ambiance:
The color rendering index (CRI), which indicates how true-to-life colors are rendered, is also a relevant specification. For applications where color accuracy is important (for example in shops or galleries), a CRI value of 80 or higher is recommended.
With the right knowledge about holders, voltage and compatibility, you can efficiently switch to LED push-fit lamps and enjoy sustainable and custom lighting in various applications.