The future is promising
This month saw the implementation of a halogen light bulb sales ban. If you want to replace the lights in your camper, motorhome, or caravan with LEDs, Sammy Faircloth examines your alternatives.
As part of the UK Government's initiative to reduce CO2 emissions, a ban on the sale of halogen light bulbs went into effect this month (September 2021). In 2023, fluorescent lighting will be phased out.
We must all switch to light-emitting diodes (LEDs) at home and in our trailers, campers, and campervans if we haven't already. Thankfully, the majority of contemporary caravans and motorhomes are already equipped with LED lighting, but if your vehicle isn't, you have a wide range of alternatives.
Fluorescent lights that could be powered by a 12V source were a common feature in caravans made in the 1970s. These lights often came in only one color and had a visually 'cold' feel to them.
Halogen lights first appeared in the 1990s. They were portable, inexpensive, and provided immediate brightness. When several halogen lamps are used at once, they consume a significant amount of current and become quite hot. They are also prone to rupturing because they are sensitive to the oils on human skin.
LEDs have been around for a long time; although originally relatively expensive, costs have significantly decreased. They use less power than halogen lamps, don't get hot, and have a long lifespan (up to 100,000 hours!). This makes them preferable for excursions without access to the power grid.
varieties of LED
Halogen to LED conversions may be as easy as replacing a lightbulb. With instance, the 2013 Bailey Orion had halogen lamps already installed, but we easily swapped them out for LEDs. Let's look at some of the many varieties of LED bulbs available today.
The most popular LED bulbs are "G4" bulbs, which are available in two shapes: discs and towers. The discs have a back or side pin connection and emit light in a single direction (great for downlighters). The towers are perfect for wall lights and lamps since they spread light out in all directions.
The "MR11" and "MR16" bulbs fit spotlight and reading light fixtures and are comparable to household light bulbs. They typically have two short pins sticking out of the rear of a conical case. Make sure you have the correct size since the MR16 is bigger than the MR11
Awning lights, spotlights, and reading lights often employ "bayonet" LEDs. Check the end cap's diameter and the amount of metal "spots" on the base before reinstalling. There are also screw caps available.
Fixtures for marker lights and roof lights often use "Festoon" LEDs. There are two lengths available: 37mm and 42mm. On these items, the number of lighting LEDs varies. Finally, there is flexible LED strip lighting, which is very adaptable and may be used as an uplighter on lockers or bedheads as well as for downward illumination beneath kitchen cabinets. ,,ss.ssssssssssssssssos for the.asare tos Waterproof strips make excellent awning lights, so keep an eye out for those.
Remove the previous light bulb and carefully examine it to determine the shape and size that will fit in your fitting if you aren't sure what to purchase. Consult a professional for guidance if you are uncertain.
Important information: Before you purchase, be careful to verify the voltage since some older caravans may have 230V mains lights. (Adding a basic transformer unit and appropriate 12V LED units will allow you to convert 230V mains lights to 12V LEDs. This is a doable DIY project, but the standard caveat applies: if you're unsure of what you're doing, hire an expert.)
The lighting in our Bailey Orion had "integrated" single-LED fixtures that produced little light. It was simple to swap out the units with new, chicer lighting.
Innovative choices, including spotlight fittings with built-in USB charging ports and dimmable spotlights, are starting to appear on the market.
Numerous kids like to sleep with a nightlight on, and now you can buy multipurpose "blue" LED nightlights. For individuals who must get up at night, low-level "pinhole" illumination is ideal.
Last thoughts
Check the kind of lighting you have if you have an older caravan since you soon won't be able to replace your halogen or fluorescent bulbs. Visit a national exhibition to see what is available and get guidance from the professionals.
