Which spotlights are suitable for suspended ceilings? Spotlights for suspended ceilings: bright stars in a cloudless sky

Spotlights for suspended ceilings (LED, halogen, etc.) play an important role in organizing the overall lighting system of a room. If desired, you can choose an option with a central lighting fixture.

In any case, you need to take into account the basic parameters of the light source (power, luminous flux) when designing lighting, as well as the type of light bulbs (LED, etc.), which will allow you to provide more or less bright light in the future.

What types are there?

The main differences between the versions of different types of devices lie in the design features. First of all, lamps are divided according to their location relative to the tension fabric:

• on the same level;
• just below the level of the ceiling structure.

To choose the most successful option for a particular room, you should take into account that each of them differs in the intensity of the luminous flux.

The fact is that lamps with a lamp at the same level of the canvas are partially closed, which means a narrowing of the light flux. If LED bulbs are installed, this disadvantage will be less noticeable due to the high intensity of radiation from such light sources.

Different types of light sources

There are other disadvantages, for example, the need for a lower suspended ceiling to allow hidden installation of lighting fixtures.

In addition, there are strict power restrictions (halogen light sources - no more than 35 W, incandescent lamps - no more than 60 W). There are no special frames imposed on LED lighting elements due to the already low level of energy consumption.

If there are no special requirements, it is better to choose diode lighting elements. They are characterized by a wide radiation angle, do not conceal space, and the canvas is not exposed to high temperatures from adjacent lamps. Illumination can be organized using different types of lighting devices that differ in functionality:

• rotary;
• non-rotating.

The first option is characterized by wider possibilities. Thanks to the built-in rotary ring, diode light sources can change the direction of the light flux. This feature is not always needed. For example, if you choose such a model when organizing basic lighting, there is no need to change the direction of the light flux.

This function is often required when you plan to install decorative or local lighting.

By type of light source, the following options are available: with incandescent filament, halogen lamps, LED lamps. The latter option is more popular due to its low heating, high brightness level, long service life and the ability to change the backlight shade.

What parameters are important when choosing?

There are a number of special requirements that contribute to the correct choice of lighting fixture:

1. sufficient radiation intensity;
2. low power;
3. minimal heat transfer;
4. successful combination with the interior of the room (color of the diffuser and body, shade of radiation).

To select the appropriate design, pay attention to the following characteristics of the lamp: power, luminous flux, base type, degree of protection, supply voltage. The last of these parameters does not apply to all light sources. Diode and halogen lighting elements in some versions require a power supply.

This need can be determined by studying the characteristics of the device. The value of the input supply voltage will help you navigate this issue (12 V, 24 V). If you choose a lamp that is not suitable for its design, the lighting will end up not being in harmony with the interior of the room. The dimensions of the device should also be taken into account.

LED and halogen lighting elements, for which a power supply is used, must be selected taking this feature into account. Moreover, it is important to think about the location of the power element. It is better to choose open niches (cornice) for this purpose, because if you install the power supply under the ceiling structure, then if it is replaced, you will not have to dismantle it.

Rules for calculating the number of lamps

The backlight can be organized according to different schemes. In this case, it is necessary to think in advance where the most and least illuminated areas will be. You can install LED or halogen light sources randomly, however, a symmetrical arrangement (two semicircles, angular placement, in a straight line) will also look very attractive.

The sufficient number of lighting fixtures is determined by the formula:

N=(S*W)/P

where S is the area of ​​the room for which the calculation is performed, kV. m,

W – specific power of luminous flux (tabular value), W/sq. m,

P – power of one light source, W.

For example, if we consider diode lamps, the recommended illuminance level (W) for the living room is 3 W/kV. m.

Price issue

The quality of lighting fixtures has a direct impact on the service life. This applies to a greater extent to diode light bulbs. This dependence is explained by the fact that their design is based on emitters of a special kind, which begin to degrade over time (a natural process of turbidity). The higher the quality of the device, the longer it will last.

Today, not all manufacturers offer decent products, trying to reduce the cost of products. Therefore, diode light sources often last a short period of time, which puts them on par with many other types of lamps. This means that before purchasing you should pay attention to the brand of the product and the quality of its assembly.

Thus, when organizing ceiling lighting using spotlights, it is necessary to select devices according to the following parameters: heating level (depending on power), luminous flux intensity, design, type of light source. Diode versions for suspended ceilings are the most preferred option due to their full compliance with fairly stringent requirements.

When installing the canvas, it is very important to choose the right light source. Too powerful lamps can damage the material of the stretch ceiling. You have to be careful. To choose suitable lighting for a stretch ceiling, you need to take into account the size of the room and some other factors.

Some people believe that it is appropriate to install LED spots for suspended ceilings. This is wrong. You can also install large chandeliers. But it is not recommended to choose massive structures, as well as plate-shaped structures. The latter can damage the canvas because they fit tightly to it. High temperatures and poor air circulation spoil the material.

There are several designs that are suitable for the canvas, depending on the fastening:

1. Overhead. The structure is installed on overhead rings. They are mounted into the canvas after the power has been supplied.
2. Built-in. They are small in size and blend into the canvas, so they do not attract attention. They are mounted using spring fasteners, which will allow the lamp to be tightly pressed to the ceiling.
3. Suspension. A hook is installed in the ceiling slab on which the chandelier is hung. This method is suitable for all chandeliers that are not too heavy. For heavy structures, additional fastenings are installed.

The first and second types are spotlights that are installed inside.

Overhead structures are the easiest to install and quite economical. They will require low power lamps. This is due to the fact that the distance between the canvas and the ceiling slab will be small. Therefore, overhead structures are more suitable as an additional light source, since if they are mounted too bright, there is a risk of damage to the material.

Built-in ones are suitable for suspended ceilings if the distance between the canvas and the platform is large. Then you can use light sources of any power. They serve as the main lighting.

If you choose a suspended structure, the dimensions will depend on the size of the room. If the ceiling surface is matte, a classic light source will do. There are large chandeliers for glossy surfaces. LEDs are well suited for such lamps. They will not heat the chandelier and harm the material.

But still, for a stretch ceiling it is better to use built-in ones.

Also do not forget about solar illumination. If you have large windows, you can install a halogen or LED mounted light on the suspended ceiling as an addition.

How to choose spotlights for suspended ceilings without making a mistake?

Spot lamp designs are in high demand because they are easy to install and are not expensive. They can be different in shape and color.

When choosing a lamp for a suspended ceiling, some requirements are established:

1. The heating temperature is below 60 degrees (if higher, the fabric begins to deteriorate).
2. Power no more than 35 watts. This is necessary to avoid voltage surges.
3. The room should have a mirror surface that could reflect light.
4. There should be no sharp ends that could damage the canvas during installation.
5. Most often, designs are sold with a built-in LED. If it burns out, simply replace it with the same one.

All of the above requirements are met by LED lamps for suspended ceilings.

If you need the light to fall evenly in the room, raster lamps protected by a grille are suitable.

Movable structures can also be installed. Thanks to special mounts, you can direct the light to individual parts of the room.

To choose the right spotlight for the ceiling, you need to consider the size and shape of the room.

Which light bulbs are best for suspended ceilings?

Simple incandescent lamps are practically not used, since they often burn out due to voltage surges and require greater depth for their installation.

That's why others will do. But their power should be limited:

1. LED (no more than 40 watts).
2. Fluorescent (up to 45 watts).
3. Halogen (up to 35 watts).

Of all the listed light sources, the LED lamp is considered the best, since it does not heat up and does not damage the material.

LEDs are more suitable for rooms with low ceilings, since the distance between the ceiling slab and the canvas will be about 5 centimeters. The light is natural and does not hurt the eyes. Such light sources are more expensive than halogen ones, but they use much less energy and last much longer. In addition, when purchasing such lamps, you have the opportunity to choose a base. Therefore, you can choose lamps without fear that the lamps will be unsuitable.

LED light sources can be divided into two groups:

1. The lamp is located inside.
2. The lamp is located outside the housing.

LED bulbs on the outside of the housing are considered better because they diffuse light well. If it is built inside, the lamp will only emit a directional stream of light. Therefore, this option is appropriate if you need to illuminate a certain place in the room.

The LEDs begin to shine fully immediately after switching on.

Luminescent ones save a lot of electricity. They come in different shapes and sizes. Inside these lamps there is a spiral, which, thanks to ultraviolet radiation, distributes light. To avoid damaging your eyes, you need to place them 40 centimeters above head level. Also be careful when installing such a lamp as it contains mercury inside. LED lighting for suspended ceilings is used less frequently, as it can burn out from frequent switching on and off. Such lamps have the longest service life (up to 5 years). When you turn on the fluorescent lamp, you must wait until it warms up (about a minute).

Halogen lamps are similar to incandescent lamps. They serve as a good source of light, work for a long time, and do not burn out due to voltage surges. But you should not touch them with your hands, since the marks left behind damage the structure of the lamp. When installing such a lamp, it is better to use a clean rag or napkin.

Any of the three listed types of lamps are suitable for a spotlight. But be careful not to exceed the permissible power of the lamps to avoid possible troubles with the stretch ceiling film.

Where are spotlights used?

If we compare a chandelier and spotlights as a source of lighting for suspended ceilings, then their choice depends on the room. For example, a chandelier is suitable for the bedroom and living room, and spotlights for the bathroom and kitchen. The latter are better for small rooms and as an additional light source.

Point light sources are well suited for the corridor so that the ceiling does not catch the eye.

Also, point structures can be made moisture-resistant, depending on the room where they will be installed. For example, simple ones are better suited for the living room, and moisture-proof ones for the bathroom.

A lot also depends on the choice of lamp. For example, LEDs in suspended ceilings are well suited for the kitchen.

Spotlights can also be installed inside wardrobes with clothes.

Spotlights can be installed anywhere. They are suitable as the main light source for small rooms, or as an additional light source for large ones.

Conclusion

LED lamps are considered the best light source for canvas. They do not damage the material and can be used as the main and additional light sources.

Good luck with the renovation!!!

Aesthetic, visually attractive and practical stretch fabrics are considered the optimal way to finish the ceiling. But when it comes to designing a lighting system for them, problems arise related to the characteristics of the materials used in the manufacturing process of tensile structures.

You don't know how to choose the best lamps for suspended ceilings and which ones will be safe to use?

We will help you understand this issue - within the framework of this article, we will find out what must be taken into account when choosing devices, consider suitable types of lamps, and highlight reliable and trusted manufacturers of lighting equipment.

The range of well-known lighting brands offers many different options for ceiling lighting fixtures. However, not every of the proposed lamp models can be attached to tension structures.

The thing is that their surface consists of PVC film, fiberglass or fabric materials that do not tolerate heating above 60°C.

If you buy the first device and type of light bulb you come across in a store, without paying attention to the characteristics of the devices, there is a high risk that over time they will burn the canvas.

As a result, the material becomes deformed, sag, acquires an unsightly yellow tint, and begins to emit unpleasant odors when the light is on.

The fabric will be a little more resistant to temperature influences, but the vinyl or glossy surface of the film can quickly crack, lose its shape and primary elasticity

That is why lamps installed in a suspended ceiling must be low-power and emit a minimum amount of heat.

It is desirable that the supporting body of the devices be made of safe thermal raw materials that prevent the spread of heat coming from the filament to the ceiling.

Preferred types of lighting fixtures

It is necessary to discuss the most suitable types of lighting at the stage of installing the ceiling covering or developing a design project for the room.

The main restrictions relate to:

• power;
• bulkiness;
• type of equipment fastening.

These characteristics must be compared with the specific design and type of ceiling finishing.

Optimal types of light bulbs

Each type of lamp corresponds to a specific type of light bulb. For example, in LED models an incandescent lamp is unacceptable. This nuance is important to consider when choosing products.

In general, any light sources are suitable for tensile structures, but with several clarifications:

• It is better to give preference to frosted light bulbs;
• Do not use incandescent lamps;
• together with halogen light sources, additional installation is required;
• permissible power of incandescent lamps is no more than 45-60 W, halogen lamps – up to 35 W.

Incandescent lamps placed in hanging chandeliers fixed at a distance of at least 0.4 m from the film ceiling. They emit standard diffuse light, but are the least economical option among the rest.

Halogen lamps more economical and durable. These devices have good color rendering and provide intense bright light in the room, but are very limited in color gamut.

LED bulbs– the most optimal, environmentally friendly and cost-effective option. They hardly heat up during operation, which is why they are the best type of light source for suspended ceiling surfaces.

For the bedroom, appliances with frosted diffuse glass are considered the best choice. In hallways and corridors of an elongated shape, it is recommended to install point-type lighting devices along the entire perimeter.

It is not necessary to settle on one type of lighting equipment for the room. It’s worth trying to combine different solutions.

For example, install a classic chandelier and complement it with spotlights. This will allow you to create original lighting compositions, highlight individual details in the interior, divide the room into zones, and avoid shadowed corners.

The photo gallery presents spectacular lighting design options in rooms with suspended ceilings:

Image gallery

It is also worth paying attention to a few general recommendations:

• built-in devices must have internal sides, their heating temperature cannot exceed 60°C;
• the optimal distance from the wall to the equipment is 15-20 cm;
• large lamps or chandeliers are mounted in the center of the room or in the work area;
• Only fluorescent or LED light bulbs are installed in dish lamps;
• in rooms of non-standard sizes it is advisable to use a wave distribution scheme of point devices;
• When purchasing, you should clarify the possibility of replacing burnt out light bulbs;
• Cast built-in equipment, chandeliers with structural elements protruding upward, heavy appliances, and lamps with incandescent lamps located close to the canvas are not suitable for installation in a tension fabric.

It is difficult to say unequivocally which model of the device will be better - this is a matter of aesthetic taste of the apartment owner or designer.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Overview of the main types of luminaires for stretched fabrics:

Properly selected lamps will not harm the characteristics of the tension fabric and will provide comfortable and uniform illumination of the space. It is enough to plan the placement of devices in advance and follow the basic rules for selection and installation, following the recommendations.

Share with readers your experience of using ceiling lamps. Tell us which model you preferred and whether you were satisfied with the purchase. Please leave comments on the article, ask questions and participate in discussions. The contact form is located below.

When T. Edison invented the incandescent lamp, having a miracle of technology and an outlandish novelty in the house was considered a great luxury. Only about one and a half hundred years have passed since then, but humanity has become much more demanding. Just one light bulb or chandelier in the center of the ceiling is often not enough. Lighting began to play not only a functional, but also a decorative role, emphasizing the features of the interior, dividing the space into zones. This is a whole science! When it comes to a regular ceiling, you can use any lamps, but with tension structures everything is somewhat more complicated. Here it is necessary to take into account their features and try to maximize the beauty of the surface. It's time to figure out which lamps for a stretch ceiling to choose, how to arrange them and which light bulbs to use.

No. 1. What features of a stretch ceiling should be taken into account?

If you take into account some nuances, then with a suspended ceiling you can use lighting fixtures of any shape and type. Fabric of tension structures. The fabric is more resistant to temperature influences, but When constantly heated above 60 0 C, the film may turn yellow, crack and lose elasticity.

To ensure that the suspended ceiling lasts as long as possible, when selecting lamps, consider the following nuances:

• lamps should emit a small amount of heat;
• it is better to use ones that generate minimal heat during operation;
• if incandescent lamps are indispensable, their maximum power should be 60 W. Maximum power of halogen lamps – 30 W;
• for incandescent lamps and halogen lamps there is also a limitation on the distance from the ceiling surface - this is 30 cm, or better yet 40 cm.

Installation diagram All lamps must be thought out in advance. In this case, it will be possible to effectively carry out preparatory work and install all the necessary fastenings. The lamps will be attached not to the canvas of the tension structure, but to the main ceiling, and the necessary holes are simply made in the canvas itself, which are then carefully designed. Thermal insulating rings provide additional protection for the fabric from overheating.

No. 2. What types of lamps for suspended ceilings are there?

All lamps that are used together with suspended ceilings can be divided into the following types:

• spot lighting;
• raster lamps;
• "starry sky" ceiling.

Chandelier in the center of the ceiling- This is a classic of the genre. It can be made in the shape of a plate, be on a long suspension, or consist of several hanging ones arranged in a row. If you plan to use incandescent or halogen lamps, be aware of safe wattage and distance. In addition, it is desirable that the design features of the chandelier be such that the shades together with the lamps are directed to the side or down, but not towards the ceiling. Use dish chandeliers With suspended ceilings it is possible, but you will have to buy fluorescent or LED light bulbs. In principle, when using lamps that do not heat up, it can be absolutely anything - fortunately, the choice in stores is so huge that you can get lost and confused.

A problem may arise if you want to install a luxurious one on a suspension. The candle lamps of such a chandelier will almost touch the ceiling. Of course, you can install relatively cold energy-saving lamps, but crystal looks best only under the light of ordinary incandescent lamps. The only way out is to increase the length of the suspension in order to achieve a safe distance between the lamps and the ceiling of 30-40 cm, but this is only possible when the ceilings in the apartment are high enough.

When, if you have a glossy ceiling installed, in which, like in a mirror, everything is reflected well, then when choosing a chandelier you should pay attention to how it looks from all sides, since in the reflection the part that is usually not visible to us will be clearly visible.

Spotlights and stretch ceilings have already become an inseparable pair, since their combination looks really very attractive. Such lamps can be used as if there are a lot of them in the room, but usually they are installed to illuminate some area in the room. Spotlights come to the rescue when the ceiling height is critically low. They have a low light dispersion angle (about 30 degrees), so for normal lighting of a room or part of it, it is necessary to install 1 device for every 1.5-2 m2 of area. These lamps can be anything in shape and size - the choice is extremely large.

Spotlights can be installed:

Used primarily for decorative purposes. It consumes a minimum of energy, gives a soft, cozy glow and is usually mounted along the contour of the ceiling, between the ceiling, or used to focus attention on individual elements.

Another option for decorative lighting is the so-called "starry sky" The technology allows you to perfectly simulate the glow and twinkling of stars, so an incredible atmosphere is created in the room. Such lighting is realized thanks to fiber-optic threads-LEDs, which are connected to a light generator located above the tension structure. LEDs may not be projected through the ceiling and project light onto the inner surface of the ceiling: during the day the ceiling remains completely smooth, but at night magic occurs. Another option is to bring out the ends of the threads with LEDs. The most expensive option is to embed diodes into Swarovski stones, thanks to which the light begins to refract especially beautifully, perfectly simulating radiant stars.

Let's highlight separately raster lamps, which are easily recognized by their characteristic honeycomb metal structure. Typically, such lamps are used in suspended ceilings, but sometimes they are also found in tension structures, although they still remain a rarity. This is a more office-style and formal option that will only look appropriate in large rooms.

It is not necessary to stop at only one lighting option: a chandelier can be combined with spotlights or LED strip, and spotlights can be installed together with a “starry sky”.

No. 3. Lamp mounting type

Installation of lamps is done with your own hands or with the help of specialists - it all depends on your skills and complexity of the work.

Chandeliers are mounted in one of the following ways:

Spotlights According to the installation method there are:

No. 4. Types of lamps, or Which light source is better

Lamps in suspended ceilings can be supplied any light sources, but this does not negate the need to weigh the pros and cons of all options and choose the optimal one:

• incandescent lamps- the most uneconomical among all the others. They have low efficiency, so most of the energy is converted into heat, which imposes restrictions on their use in conjunction with film stretch ceilings. Such lamps are usually installed in pendant chandeliers, but you need to remember about the power limitation: it is 60 W, but some recommend using lamps no more powerful than 45 W. Such lamps are usually not installed in spotlights, but if you have a fabric suspended ceiling, then you can find a compromise and take a light bulb with a mirror coating;
  
• halogen lamps somewhat more economical than incandescent lamps, they provide bright and intense light, but are limited in the color range of radiation. Such lamps emit less heat and last twice as long as conventional incandescent lamps, but they are still better used in suspended structures. Usually, along with halogen lamps, the installation of an additional transformer is required, but such lamps, when installed with a heat reflector forward, allow you to create interesting visual effects;
  
• energy saving fluorescent lamps Their name alone suggests that they use electricity sparingly. In addition, they are durable and do not overheat, so they can be mounted in pendant, surface-mounted and recessed lamps. Such lamps are relatively large in size, so they may not be installed in every lamp. If the lamp is positioned so that it constantly falls into the field of view, then it is better to choose a dark light reflector type lamp with a soft light beam;
  
• LED bulbs– one of the most modern solutions today. In them, electricity is immediately transformed into light radiation, due to which high efficiency and durability are achieved. LED lamps are several times more economical than incandescent lamps, and several times more economical than fluorescent lamps. Some manufacturers provide a guarantee for their products for up to 10 years. In addition, such lamps practically do not heat up, are available in different colors and have a soft light without flickering effect. As a rule, an LED light source is already built into the lamp - these are reliable, more durable and economical products, but then the entire lamp will have to be replaced, not just the light bulb. You can find lamps in which the LED element can be replaced: you can always replace the lamp with a more powerful one, although the durability of such products is lower;
  
• fiber optic threads are used only to create the “starry sky” effect. They have low heat transfer, but do not provide much light - this is decorative lighting. Fiber optics are not cheap, they are durable, and thanks to various attachments they can simulate flickering or flames on the ceiling.
  

It is best to combine different types of lamps and lamps: this will make it easier to create the necessary lighting in each area of ​​the room, quickly change the decor and highlight individual parts of the space. To have complete control over the light, you can equip the lamps with a rheostat and adjust the light intensity.

In one work it is almost impossible to consider all the issues related to lighting an apartment with suspended ceilings. A series of articles will be devoted to this problem on the website, which will separately examine:

• types of lamps;
• location of lighting fixtures on the ceiling (article “”);
• technology of installation and replacement of lamps.

In order not to be repeated in each work, general questions are included in this separate material, which will be discussed below. This includes the selection of lighting fixtures for the overall style of the interior, the choice of the color of the luminous flux, the level of illumination of various rooms and the influence of the lamp base on the organization of lighting, as well as basic concepts about light sources.

Lighting in interiors of various styles

When choosing the type of lamps, you need to remember that it is not just a light source, but also an element of interior design. Therefore, it is important to know not only which lamps are suitable for suspended ceilings, but also how well they fit into the chosen interior style.

Classic. The style presupposes restraint in design - nothing superfluous, going beyond strictly defined boundaries. Requires expensive, exquisite pieces of furniture. The same applies to lighting. Only the central one, only an expensive chandelier made of crystal, glass or metal.

No additional spotlights. It is allowed to place sconces made of metal and glass on the wall. Recently, designers are increasingly using LED strips placed on a multi-tiered ceiling around the perimeter of the room. This approach, on the one hand, violates the classical canons, and on the other, emphasizes the rigor and richness of the room’s decoration.

Modern. The style was formed under the influence of classical interior design techniques. A characteristic feature is the smoothness and naturalness of the lines, giving way to unexpected asymmetry of shapes. The presence of a chandelier made of frosted glass and metal is mandatory, but additional light sources are allowed: overhead (glass or crystal lamps) and recessed, as well as LED strips.

Often there are design solutions for organizing light when all of the listed types of lighting are used simultaneously. Art Nouveau style in lighting is well suited for a children's room, bedroom, kitchen.

Characterized by a rustic (provincial) interior design style. Central lighting with a multi-arm chandelier of airy shapes is ideal for it. Lampshades can be made of textiles with a discreet pattern in pastel shades or natural materials. Additional spotlights located along the walls also fit well into the interior.

High tech. A design in this style should have a clear and simple geometry, no decorative embellishments, and a large amount of metal. This is one of the few interior styles where classic lighting, a chandelier, looks pretentious. Overhead lamps are also not used, although each rule has its exceptions. Built-in lights go well with LED strip.

The above recommendations are not an axiom. Here we just give you hints in which directions to move if there is a great desire to adhere to a single style. In practice, imagination and a subtle sense of beauty mix styles and get excellent results. Sometimes this is done consciously, in contrasting styles, often spontaneously. Therefore, our advice: do not be afraid and experiment.

The role of the color of light flux in the design of an apartment

When buying lamps, almost no one thinks about what color of light it will emit (many people do not even know that lighting can have different colors), how this affects the psycho-emotional state of a person and how the environment is perceived by the human eye.

To explain the presence of color in light, it is necessary to recall the school physics course, which states that light is electromagnetic radiation emitted by a heated substance. A striking example of a change in the color of emitted light is welding work when the metal begins to cool. At this point, you can notice that as the light cools, it turns from blue to white and then to a yellow tint. The same effect applies to lamps, only here the color name is slightly different:

• white warm;
• neutral or natural white;
• cold white.

Important: we are not talking about the temperature inside the lamp, which is measured in degrees Celsius and which causes burns on the body, but about the temperature of the radiation, measured in Kelvin.

The question immediately arises: how to choose a lamp for a stretch ceiling with a certain color of light? The answer is very simple - light bulb manufacturers write on the packaging the temperature at which the luminous flux is emitted (measured in Kelvin, denoted by the letter K in the SI system). Using the scale shown in the photo above, you can easily determine the color of the light flux.

The second question involuntarily creeps in: what does this have to do with the owners of the apartment? There are two points here.

1. The color of light affects a person's psychological state.
2. In different color streams, the human eye perceives the color design of an apartment differently, which, on the one hand, significantly changes the design of the room, and on the other, has a different effect on the emotional state.

Warm (yellow) color. A pleasant glow for the eyes that relieves fatigue after working with a computer or watching TV. It can be obtained from both conventional incandescent and halogen light bulbs. If desired, you can find LED and fluorescent light bulbs with these characteristics. The color you need most is yellow:

• in the living room (hall) - creates a warm, relaxed, cozy atmosphere;
• bedroom - evokes a feeling of calm. In such an environment, the eyes take a break from the stress of the day;
• in the kitchen - dishes look more appetizing in warm light;
• bathroom - soft, warm light flux relaxes, relieves fatigue.

Warm light also has its disadvantages. Due to the absence of blue and green colors in the light spectrum (rays of this length are not emitted), many paints take on a completely different color:

• blue turns greenish;
• blue fades, turning into dirty blue;
• dark blue becomes black;
• purple glows red.

Neutral white light. Such lighting can be obtained from halogen light bulbs and some types of fluorescent light bulbs. White light is practically no different from daylight, and therefore there are no distortions in color perception. It is advisable to install lamps with this color of light:

• in the nursery;
• hallway and corridor;
• above the work table in the kitchen;
• near the mirror - the skin color is not distorted when applying makeup;
• above the desks where homework is done or newspapers, magazines, and books are read.

Cold (blue) color. Cold (blue) color. Only incandescent lamps are not capable of operating in the cold spectrum of light emission - all other types of lamps produce it. Cool shades of light invigorate and increase concentration. Therefore, using cold light:

• in the office above the desk - increases productivity;
• in the washing area in the bathroom - it will help you quickly recover from sleep and invigorate you;
• in residential areas, the blue spectrum suits modern room design styles, where there is a lot of space and metal (“high-tech”).

The human eye's perception of some colors changes in the same way as in the case of warm light:

• red becomes purple;
• orange is perceived as brown;
• yellow turns to greenish yellow;
• blue and green look bright and rich.

Residential lighting level

When organizing lighting in the apartment as a whole and in each room separately, one should not forget about one more important feature - the level of lighting. As in the previous case, the owners of residential premises think little about what power the lamps should be in each room.

Here, unfortunately, another rule basically works: if there is money, there is more light everywhere, budgetary family finances should be illuminated so that “just don’t trip.” According to health doctors, both approaches are harmful to health - they negatively affect the organs of vision, general condition and concentration and, consequently, ability to work.

Many people do not associate too bright light in the evening in an apartment with drowsiness and low performance the next day, but, according to doctors, this is precisely the reason. Much the same thing happens with dim light.

Back in Soviet times, sanitary standards for lighting various rooms in an apartment were developed (located in SanPiN, transferred to SNiP - see table), which builders are guided by.

Standards for illumination of premises in residential buildings.

Based on the given indicators, using special formulas you can calculate the number of light bulbs and their power for each room. The calculation method can be viewed in one of the works on our website (material “”).

At the same time, we note that Western specialists have a slightly different approach to illumination standards, as well as other indicators of their measurement (rather demonstrations) - they immediately give the number of W per 1 m 2.

Using this table, it is easy to make all the calculations for the lighting arrangement in the apartment - the area of ​​the room is multiplied by the illumination indicator in W/m2 and divided by the power of the light bulb, in W.

The basic principles of lighting organization outlined above in the first case, when it comes to continuing the style of interior design, can be used as recommendations for action, but in the second and third cases they must be observed if the health of everyone living in this apartment is important.

Modern technologies make it possible to organize light in accordance with the requirements of sanitary doctors at a minimum cost. Both the lamps are energy-saving, and the service life of some lamps is increased several times compared to cheap incandescent lamps - all this ultimately allows you to have bright light at the same cost.

Types of lamps

The lighting arrangement in an apartment with suspended ceilings is also influenced by the choice of type and type of lamps. They are attached to the ceiling in different ways, have different shapes, sizes, bases (for LED lamps, the base acts as a lampshade, which is why the light is scattered differently around the room), etc. To know exactly which lamps can be used for suspended ceilings, let’s consider the basic concepts associated with light sources.

By type of fastening

For mounting light sources the following are used:

• suspension systems;
• built-in;
• invoices.

Hanging. Already from the name itself it is clear that the lamps are attached to the ceiling using special devices: a hook or a special platform (attached to the ceiling with special hangers, used only for chandeliers). In the first case we have a classic suspended mounting option, in the second we have a variation of it, which experts call a ceiling mount (see photo).

This mounting option involves installing a reinforcing platform to the ceiling before starting work on installing a stretch ceiling. The chandelier is attached to the reinforcing strip with self-tapping screws on top of the canvas. There are two disadvantages here:

• unpredictable reaction of a stretched ceiling to a breakthrough with hardware;
• proximity of the light source to the PVC film, which can cause it to overheat.

Therefore, such installation of a chandelier in apartments is not very popular, but in public places (cafes, restaurants, museums, etc.) it allows you to move the chandelier to a place where the lighting is currently insufficient (in this case, the platform is of considerable size).

A hook for mounting a chandelier is used much more often. Here, first, a hook is attached using an anchor bolt, then the ceiling is tensioned. Under the mount, a hole is cut in the canvas through which the wires and suspension (chain, cable) will pass. The edges of the hole are reinforced with special rings that prevent the film or fabric from spreading.

Built-in. An embedded base with connected electrical wires is pre-attached to the main ceiling. A hole is made in the stretched fabric. A lamp with special springs is inserted into it, which, when straightened, hold it in the platform (see photo). In this case, the light source is almost completely hidden in the space between the stretched canvas and the ceiling.

On the outside, a decorative overlay is attached to the canvas, which simultaneously keeps the film from further destruction (instead of a special ring) and serves as a decorative element. Visually, the light source merges with the ceiling, creating the impression of the integrity of the ceiling covering. Such lighting fixtures can be installed throughout the apartment, in any room.

Invoices. The principle of fastening is the same as for hidden lamps: a special embedded base is attached to the ceiling, over which a film or fabric is stretched. A hole is made in the ceiling for electrical wiring, which is secured with clamping rings. The lamp itself is installed directly on the stretched ceiling - literally superimposed on it. Hence the name.

Overhead lamps are made rotating (the direction of the light flow is adjusted) and non-rotating (after installation they shine in one place).

The pros and cons of each type of fastening, their features, methods of installation, repair and replacement of lamps can be viewed in the works on our website.

By number of light sources

There are a huge number of different lamps on sale: chandeliers with a large number of light bulbs, single built-in light sources, LED strips, etc. In this variety, it is quite difficult to determine which lamps are better for a stretch ceiling based on the number of light sources collected on one platform. To have some idea about lighting systems with different numbers of light bulbs, let's classify them.

Depending on the number of light sources mounted on one base, the following can be used to illuminate suspended ceilings:

• Spotlights;
• multi-lamp;
• cascade;
• raster;
• LED Strip Light;
• light lines;
• "starry sky"

Spot. Spotlights have become an integral attribute of suspended ceilings - indeed, their combination is stylish and beautiful. They are used for main lighting, but in some interior design options, single lighting sources are assigned an auxiliary role - to emphasize the elegance of the chandelier or to highlight a certain part of the room. The use of only spotlights is mandatory for low ceilings - people will cling to the chandelier with their heads.

In terms of shape, size, power, methods of obtaining light flux and its color, such lamps can be anything - there is a huge selection on sale, numbering more than one thousand options. The main thing here is to choose the right lamp for a specific room.

Some experts classify spotlights as a separate group - directional light fixtures - they provide a narrowly directed luminous flux and have a rotating device. It is not important to classify spotlights as a separate classification category - these are, after all, spotlights.

Chandelier. Well known, classic lamp. In many cases, it is an indispensable attribute of the interior (classic, modern, Provence, etc.). Installed in almost any room of the apartment. It can be made from different materials, have a different number of light sources, be decorated in different ways and perform different functions in lighting a room: creating comfort or a romantic mood, an area of ​​increased concentration (performance) or relaxation.

Modern technologies have made changes to such a conservative light source as a chandelier. LED chandeliers are now on sale.

You can install the chandelier yourself. However, it should be remembered that the presence of several light bulbs can lead to overheating of the ceiling canvas - it will begin to turn yellow and subsequently sag. Therefore, this lamp should be hung at a distance of 20-60 cm from the film (fabric) to avoid heating the ceiling to more than 60 degrees Celsius. In addition, it is necessary to stop using incandescent lamps - we need energy-saving or LED lamps that operate in lower temperature conditions.

Attention should also be paid to the location of the lampshades. If they look up, the chandelier must be lowered further, to the maximum distance. If the ceiling height does not allow you to hang the chandelier at a distance of 60 cm from the stretched fabric, it should be replaced - otherwise the stretch ceiling will have to be changed.

Cascade. The cascade design for placing lamps (not to be confused with cascading lamps) for suspended ceilings does not have a very long history - 10-20 years (for other types of ceilings it has been used for a long time). It is a platform attached to the ceiling with a hook, which has several overhead lamps or single lamps with a lampshade on a pendant. This lighting design sharply demarcates the room into zones and creates an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance. It is especially often used when lighting a bar counter and a dining table.

Raster. Lamps in the form of a raster are used mainly in non-residential premises. They can also be found in large living rooms (halls) of cottages. In small rooms, its light is too bright and clean, in which a small room becomes uncomfortable, moreover, excessive lighting disrupts the psycho-emotional state of family members. The disadvantages include the lack of sophistication in such lamps - a metal cellular structure, equipped with reflective mirror plates, covered with a grille.

It is one of the varieties of LED lamps, made in the form of a transparent plastic strip with small spot LEDs on one side and a layer of glue on the other. Sold in 5 m reels. Small thickness (only 3 mm) and small width (10 mm) allow it to be mounted in multi-tiered ceilings for decorative purposes (although there are exceptions and such a tape serves as the main element of the lighting system) along the contour of one of the tiers directly behind the baseboard. Among the advantages:

• low power consumption;
• long service life, up to 50.0 thousand hours;
• a wide selection of colors (including multi-color ones that change color in accordance with the program);
• compactness - they take up little space in the package and do not require special technological solutions for installation.

Light lines. Just recently, Russian consumers were just getting acquainted with built-in lamps, and they are being replaced by light lines. Lighting is provided by LED strip 10 mm wide. Depending on the number of built-in LEDs in 1 linear meter, the power of the strip can range from 14.4 W (60 crystals) to 24 W (240 LEDs). In the first case, such lighting performs auxiliary functions, in the second it is the main one. The LED strip is mounted on a special profile (see photo). Light diffusion is achieved by a decorative insert.

This type of lamps has many advantages:

• original ceiling design that radically changes the interior of the room;
• a clearer division of the room into zones, emphasizing individual pieces of furniture if necessary;
• electricity consumption is reduced;
• the need to replace lamps disappears for a long time (manufacturers guarantee 50.0 thousand hours of continuous operation);
• can be installed along the seam, which turns the ceiling into a single whole;
• quick installation.

Light lines can be of various shapes, figures and sizes, which gives free rein to your imagination for their installation.

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"Starry Sky". Lighting in the “starry sky” version is the most expensive and spectacular design of a stretch ceiling. Here, the innovative ideas of using fiberglass as a conductor of light from LED sources and the ability to embed LEDs into PVC film without damaging it are successfully combined.

There is also a technology where the LED fibers are not brought out, but are hidden behind the film of the fabric. During the day, such a ceiling is sterilely clean, in the evening and at night a surprisingly fantastic atmosphere sets in: the stars not only glow, but also twinkle, thanks to the light generator. The most expensive, yet fantastically beautiful option is mounting the optical fiber in Swarovski crystals. Refracted in stones, the light perfectly imitates the twinkling of stars with different color renditions.

Attention: you can create the “starry sky” effect in various ways: using lighting (which is what we are talking about) and using backlighting - there are more than 5 methods (technological solutions).

It is difficult to carry out such lighting on your own. There are many nuances there. Therefore, it is better to entrust the work to professionals.

By type of light used

According to the type of origin of the luminous flux, all types of lamps can be divided into 3 large groups:

• incandescent lamps;
• gas discharge;
• LED

Incandescent lamps. The entire history of electricity is closely connected with incandescent lamps. In them, a tungsten filament converts thermal energy (generated by the passage of current) into light - rays of the visible and infrared spectrum are emitted. The thread is placed in a flask from which air is pumped out - we have vacuum light sources or gas is pumped in: krypton and halogen lamps.

In such light bulbs, only 7-12% of thermal energy is converted into light, in which they are significantly inferior to gas-discharge and LED lamps. Their only advantage is ease of installation and operation in any conditions, including ambient temperature. On sale you can find light bulbs with a power of 15-1,500 W.

Gas discharge lamps. The basis of discharge lamps is the ability of gases under the influence of an electric discharge to emit ultraviolet rays. A phosphor, a special substance, helps transform this spectrum of light into the visible part. Such a lamp is an ordinary glass tube made of quartz sand, filled with vapors of various substances: mercury, argon, xenon, neon with tungsten electrodes on each side. The inner surface is coated with a phosphor that glows in the visible light spectrum under the influence of UV rays (a secondary glow effect is observed).

Such lamps are economical (high luminous efficiency) and emit natural white light, close to daylight. However, they have a big disadvantage - flickering (stroboscopic effect). Using alternating current, the discharge lamp lights up and goes out 100 times per second - at a frequency of 50 Hz per second, the current passes through zero 100 times. Flicker is not visible visually, but it is very harmful to the eyes. You can avoid the flickering effect if you use two lamps with a phase shift - when one is turned off, the second begins to shine.

The light source in an LED lamp is the Light-Emitting Diode, abbr. LED (light emitting diode). These are economical light sources with a luminous flux power 10 times higher than that of incandescent lamps, and with a long service life. The advantages include the absence of components harmful to health, such as mercury vapor, in the light bulb.

The design of each type of LED lamp is unique - it consists of a base, a metal case (each type of base has its own type of case, which incandescent and discharge lamps do not have), a board with a semiconductor element - an LED, a power converter and a translucent plastic bulb that covers the board.

This lamp has many advantages:

• long service life (about 6 years versus 1 year for fluorescent lamps);
• different colors of light, which allows you to choose a lamp for any room in the apartment;
• operation at low heating temperatures of the light emitter: the LED chip heats up to 75 degrees Celsius, the tungsten filament up to several hundred degrees;
• different type of base, providing for the replacement of all previous lamps: incandescent and fluorescent lamps.

Three disadvantages:

• overheating by just 2 degrees (over 75) leads to gradual degradation of semiconductor crystals: tarnishing, and then complete destruction, which requires constant heat removal;
• high price;
• it is impossible to replace lamps with G5.3 and GX53 sockets - they form a single unit with the lamp.

By shapes and sizes

Retail chains today are overflowing with various modifications of lamps for stretch ceilings - your eyes run wide from the wide choice. In these conditions, it is important to know how to choose a spotlight for suspended ceilings depending on its size and shape.

The shapes of lamps can be very different. It all depends on the interior design ideas. You can use classic and asymmetrical shapes, while the body of the lamp and the lamp can be modified (there are several types of light bulbs in one body and vice versa), have a round or oval shape, be made of metal, ceramics, glass or plastic. For admirers of strict geometric lines, there are square and rectangular lamps on store shelves. In this case, the rectangular body can have spherical, candle-shaped and spiral-shaped bulbs.

If we summarize what has been said, the conclusion suggests itself: on the market, lamps can be found ready-made or combined with a lamp of any shape to suit the taste of the homeowners. The main thing is that their installation is proportionate to the area of ​​the ceiling and looks harmonious with the surrounding interior.

All types of lighting fixtures have standard base sizes, and in the case of LED lamps, also housing sizes. This is done to unify the installation units and the sizes of holes in the ceiling for recessed point light sources. When choosing the size of an overhead lamp, you need to take into account its weight - the larger it is, the lower the ceiling should be lowered in relation to the ceiling (up to 6-7 cm, instead of 5 cm).

For reference: dimensions of LED spotlights: length - 2-3 cm, diameter - 8-10 cm.

By type of base

Lamps have a wide variety of bases, however, to organize a lighting system thought out from all sides, you need to have an idea of ​​only 3 types of base:

• G5.3;
• GX53;

Base G5.3 Can be for halogen and LED lamps. Its peculiarity is that the light bulb is located inside the housing. This results in several disadvantages:

• the light is not scattered throughout the room, but is emitted in the form of an expanding beam (like a spotlight), resulting in illumination produced in spots, one from each bulb;
• placing the lamp entirely in the lamp body leads to its overheating, which requires intensive heat removal. Lack of ventilation complicates the process of cooling the light source. Aluminum radiators help. Replacing metal with composite materials leads to rapid failure of LED lamps and destruction of the ceiling fabric;
• such lamps cannot be more powerful than 7 W - they simply cannot accommodate additional semiconductor crystals.

In modification of the base GX53 the light bulb protrudes from the housing by 4-5 mm. This arrangement of the lamp allowed:

• increase the light dispersion angle to 180 degrees;
• achieve heat removal directly from the surface of the lampshade, which reduced the load on heat removal from the lamp body;
• to produce, along with static light sources, also rotating ones, which significantly diversifies the design possibilities for apartment lighting;
• increase the lamp power;
• receive all three colors of light (warm, neutral, cool).

The GX53 socket is installed in LED and fluorescent energy-saving lamps.

Base G9 differs from the considered options in that its light bulb protrudes completely from the lamp body (from the ceiling as well). The luminous flux in such a light source is maximally diffused, but is inferior in lighting efficiency to models with a GX53 base (part of the light is directed upward and is absorbed by the matte ceiling, while the glossy one is scattered again along the walls).

This small drawback is offset by significant advantages:

• there is no problem of heat removal;
• no power restrictions;
• simple operation - replacing a burnt-out lamp is carried out by simple steps: removing the old one and installing a new one;
• there are adapters for lamps with a different base;
• a large selection of light bulbs with different types of light production;
• reasonable price, including for LED lamps.

Which lamps to choose depending on the canvas

The material discussed above does not answer which lamps to choose for suspended ceilings, depending on the stretched fabric. And here there are some nuances:

• At temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius, the ceiling sheet made of PVC film begins to turn yellow and then collapse. Polyester (fabric fabric) can withstand temperatures slightly higher, up to 70 degrees, after which it loses elasticity and crumbles (destroys);
• in a film ceiling you cannot make holes larger than 150 mm in diameter, in a fabric ceiling 150-200 mm - the canvas spreads in all directions. Stabilizing rings don't help either;
• mirrored film ceilings ideally show the part of the chandelier hidden below, which requires a special approach to its selection.

Therefore, when installing lighting, the following rules must be observed.

• It is strictly forbidden to use incandescent lamps in built-in and surface-mounted lamps.
• Incandescent lamps must be on pendants 30-60 cm long, while their maximum power is allowed for PVC film 40 W, polyester (fabric) - 60 W.
• Halogen lamps have permitted wattages: 20 W for film and 35 W for fabric.
• The power of LED lamps is limited to 40 W.
• The horns of chandeliers should not point upward - even low-power light bulbs can overheat the ceiling sheet during prolonged operation.
• Built-in lamps should be compact, no more than 8-10 cm in diameter. If the design solution requires large-diameter lamps, you need to place an additional platform above the canvas and attach light sources to it.
• When installing chandeliers on a glossy ceiling, their reverse side should look aesthetically pleasing.

Popular manufacturers and prices

The price for any product is formed in the same way: profit is added to its cost (depending on the type of materials from which it is made), and then a markup on the brand (the more promoted, the higher the markup) and on the design solution (author’s copies produced in limited quantities, are very expensive). These provisions fully apply to ceiling lamps.

Pendant lamps(with one lamp) for suspended ceilings you can buy from 2,000 to 20,000 rubles. For example, a Danish lamp from Citilux with a power of 100 W costs from 2,300 rubles.

Chandeliers are much more expensive due to the larger number of lamps and intricate design - the Cascade T522-PT40x100-G lamp (Maytoni), made in Germany, costs more than 62,000 rubles. For such a price, it has 12 lamps and a huge number of crystal beads that luxuriously refract the light.

Surface-mounted lamps cost from 800 to 5,000 rubles. There are so many affordable and well-designed light sources out there. For example, a Turkish LED lamp “Overlay Circle” with an aluminum body from Horoz can be purchased for only 1050-1200 rubles.

Most commonly installed on suspended ceilings lamps with LEDs. They are produced in Russia, Europe, and China. With a huge choice, you need to know whether LED lamps for suspended ceilings are better to buy, expensive European ones or Chinese ones with an average price.

Let us immediately note one feature of European manufacturers: they mostly produce lamps with an E26 base, which is not used in Russia (here they use an E27 base). Therefore, it is necessary to be very careful when choosing products from European manufacturers.

Among Russian manufacturers it should be noted:

• "Feron" is a long-liver of the electrical goods market. Produces a wide range of LED strips and lamps at affordable prices. For example, a Feron LB-70 3W lamp costs from 110 rubles;
• "Camelion" is a famous European brand. On the territory of the Russian Federation, using its technology, lamps are produced by JSC Energy Systems and Technologies (JSC EST). The product is distinguished by its original design, which allows for a larger light dispersion angle;
• "Navigator" - the main production is located in Klin (Russia). The price corresponds to the quality - a 10 W lamp costs from 300 rubles.

Attention: Chinese-made Camelion LED lamps are sold on the Russian market. They have high quality, long service life and a higher price compared to similar Russian-made light bulbs.

World brands are represented by the following companies:

• "Philips" is the most recognizable name of the manufacturer of electrical goods. Lamps can be purchased at any electrical goods department. Prices correspond to the brand - very high;
• "Lightstar" (Lightstar) is an Italian manufacturer. It is striving to become a leader in this market segment thanks to its original design, high-quality materials and affordable prices. Having the same technical characteristics with Philips lamps, including service life, it keeps the price an order of magnitude lower;
• "Osram" (Germany). The German origin of the product does not require additional comment;
• FKK (Japan), Nichia (Japan) - both Japanese manufacturers have been on the Russian market for a long time. Products in terms of reliability and design are among the 10 best global brands. Prices are in the segment between medium and high.

China is represented in Russia by both unknown manufacturers with low prices and companies with recognizable names:

• “Selecta” sells good quality products mainly through online trading platforms;
• "Estares" is a trademark of the world famous manufacturer MaySun. The manufactured luminaires fully comply with technical regulations (norms and regulations).

The commercially available selection of luminaires can satisfy all design and price needs.