Question 1

What do I need to hang a lamp from the ceiling?

Accepted Answer

To hang a pendant lamp from a ceiling, you need a canopy (ceiling rose) to cover the electrical junction, a textile or PVC cable rated H03VV-F 3×0.75 mm² for the suspension and wiring, a lamp holder (such as E27 or E14) with an integrated strain relief to protect the electrical connections, and a suitable bulb. For heavier luminaires, a ceiling hook or mounting bracket rated for the lamp's weight is also required. All these components are available individually so you can assemble exactly the configuration you need.

Question 2

What are the three main types of lamp sockets?

Accepted Answer

The three principal lamp socket families are: screw bases (Edison), including E14, E27 and E40, where the lamp is twisted into the holder; bayonet caps, such as B22d, where the lamp is pushed in and rotated to lock; and pin bases, which cover a wide range including GU10, GU5.3, G9, G4, G13 and R7s, where one or more pins make the electrical contact. Each family is further divided by pin spacing, voltage rating and maximum wattage, so always check the full socket designation before ordering a replacement holder or lamp.

Question 3

Can lamp shades be replaced without buying a new luminaire?

Accepted Answer

Yes — lamp shades can be replaced independently in most standard luminaires. Replacement shades are available in fabric, glass, metal and plastic, and attach to the fitting via a spider frame, a ring adapter or a direct screw fitting (typically M10×1 thread). When ordering a replacement shade, note the fitting diameter, the attachment method and the maximum wattage the shade material can tolerate. Replacing a shade is a cost-effective way to refresh the look of a luminaire or repair damage, and it is far more sustainable than discarding the entire fitting.

Question 4

What are the four main types of luminaires?

Accepted Answer

The four principal luminaire types are: pendant luminaires, which hang from the ceiling on a cable, rod or chain; surface-mounted luminaires, fixed directly to the ceiling or wall; recessed luminaires, installed flush into a ceiling void or wall recess; and track-mounted luminaires, clipped onto a 1-phase or 3-phase track rail for flexible, repositionable lighting. Each type requires specific accessories — canopies and suspension hardware for pendants, mounting frames for recessed fittings, and track adapters and feed-ins for track systems.

Question 5

Which spare parts are available for older lamps and luminaires?

Accepted Answer

A wide range of spare parts is available for older luminaires, including replacement lamp holders (E27, E14, G9, GU10 and more), lamp shades and replacement glasses, canopies, strain reliefs, screw rings, cord switches, threaded rods and hex nuts, textile and PVC cables, and ballasts or starters for fluorescent fittings. In many cases, repairing an existing luminaire with genuine spare parts is both more economical and more environmentally responsible than replacing the entire fitting. If you are unsure which part you need, our contact and service team can help identify the correct component.

Question 6

Which accessories do I need for a track lighting system?

Accepted Answer

A complete track lighting installation requires: the track rail itself (1-phase or 3-phase, surface-mounted, recessed or pendant); a live end feed-in to connect the track to the mains supply; straight connectors, L-joiners or T-joiners if the track run changes direction; end caps to seal open track ends safely; track adapters for each spotlight; and, for pendant track installations, wire rope suspension kits with adjustable ceiling anchors. For 3-phase systems, you will also need to plan which spotlights connect to which circuit to enable independent switching of different lighting zones.

Question 7

What is the difference between a conventional ballast (CCG) and an electronic ballast (ECG)?

Accepted Answer

A conventional ballast (CCG) uses a magnetic iron-core inductor to limit current to fluorescent or discharge lamps. It operates at mains frequency (50 Hz), which can cause visible flicker, and consumes 10–15 % more energy than the lamp wattage alone. A separate starter is required. An electronic ballast (ECG) operates at 40–50 kHz, eliminating flicker, improving lamp efficacy by up to 20 %, and removing the need for a starter. ECG units are lighter, run cooler and are the preferred choice for offices, retail environments and any application where light quality matters. Both types must be matched to the lamp wattage.

Question 8

Which luminaire accessories are best suited for retail and hospitality environments?

Accepted Answer

For retail shops, restaurants and showrooms, the most important luminaire accessories are 3-phase track system components — Eutrac feed-ins, adapters, connectors and suspension kits — which allow flexible, independently controlled accent and ambient lighting. High-CRI LED drivers (CRI ≥ 90) paired with dimmable spotlights ensure merchandise and interiors are shown at their best. For hospitality settings with a vintage or retro aesthetic, brass E27 lamp holders, textile cables in coordinating colours and decorative canopies create the warm, characterful atmosphere that guests expect. IP44-rated accessories are essential wherever luminaires are installed in outdoor terraces or kitchen areas.

Accessories for lighting