Lighting Frequently Asked Questions

Should I choose lights by watts or lumens?

Choose by lumens for brightness and use watts only to understand energy use. With LED lighting, two fittings can use very different watts while producing similar brightness. If you are replacing an old bulb, match the lumen output first, then check the fitting type, colour temperature and dimming compatibility.

What colour temperature should I use in each room?

As a practical guide, use 2700K to 3000K for bedrooms, lounges and dining areas where you want a warm, relaxed feel. Use 3000K to 4000K for kitchens, bathrooms, offices and task areas where clearer light helps. Avoid mixing very warm and very cool lights in the same open plan space unless it is intentional.

What is the difference between warm white, cool white and daylight?

Warm white is softer and more yellow, usually around 2700K to 3000K. Cool white is cleaner and more neutral, often around 4000K. Daylight is much cooler and brighter looking, often 5000K and above. Warm white is usually best for comfort; cool white is better for task visibility.

What does CRI mean and does it matter?

CRI means Colour Rendering Index . It describes how naturally colours appear under a light source. For most homes, a CRI of 80+ is workable. For kitchens, bathrooms, mirrors, retail displays, artwork or spaces where finishes matter, higher CRI lighting can make colours look more accurate and less flat.

Why do LED lights flicker or buzz on a dimmer?

LED flicker is usually caused by a mismatch between the LED driver and the dimmer switch, poor quality drivers, overloaded or underloaded dimmer circuits, or non dimmable lamps being used on a dimmer. Always check that the fitting is dimmable and use an LED compatible dimmer. If flicker continues, ask an electrician to check the circuit.

Can all LED lights be dimmed?

No. Only LEDs marked as dimmable should be used with a wall dimmer. Some remote controlled or smart LED fittings dim through their own remote or app and may not be compatible with a physical wall dimmer. Check the product specification before buying.

What are warm-dim LEDs?

Warm dim LEDs become warmer in colour as you dim them, closer to the way older halogen lamps behaved. They are useful in lounges, bedrooms, restaurants and hospitality spaces where low light should feel soft rather than grey or flat.

Are selectable colour temperature fittings a good idea?

Selectable CCT fittings can be useful when you are unsure whether a room needs 3000K, 4000K or another colour temperature. Many are adjusted by a small switch on the fitting or driver before installation. They are convenient, but you should still choose one setting per room so the space feels consistent.

How do I know which bulb base or fitting type I need?

Check the code on the existing lamp or fitting. Common examples include E27 , B22 , GU10 , G9 and E14 . The base must match the holder physically and electrically. If you are unsure, compare the old lamp against the product photos and specifications before ordering.

Can I use any light in a bathroom or outdoors?

No. Bathrooms, covered patios and outdoor areas need fittings suited to moisture exposure. Look for damp rated, weatherproof or suitable IP rated products depending on the location. Outdoor and bathroom installations should be checked by a qualified electrician, especially near water.

How do beam angle and spacing affect downlights?

A narrow beam creates a tighter pool of light, while a wider beam spreads light more evenly. Ceiling height, room size, wall colour and the task all affect spacing. Kitchens and work areas usually need more even task light; lounges can use softer layered lighting with fewer harsh overhead spots.

Should I choose an integrated LED fitting or a fitting with replaceable bulbs?

Integrated LED fittings can look cleaner and provide strong, efficient light, but the LED module or driver may need specialist replacement later. Fittings with replaceable lamps are easier to maintain because you can change the bulb. Choose based on the look, expected use and how easy the fitting will be to access.

How long should LED lights last?

LED lifespan depends on driver quality, heat management, usage hours and power quality. A good LED can last many years, but heat, poor ventilation, incompatible dimmers and electrical surges can shorten its life. Use the correct fitting for the space and avoid enclosing lamps that are not rated for enclosed use.

Should I use smart bulbs, smart fittings or smart switches?

Smart bulbs are easy for lamps and single fittings. Smart fittings can be useful for colour control or remote dimming. Smart switches are better when you want normal wall control behaviour for a whole circuit. Make sure smart products are compatible with your wiring, dimmers and Wi Fi setup before buying.

How do I choose the right pendant or chandelier size?

Consider the room size, ceiling height and what sits below the fitting. A dining pendant should suit the table width and hang low enough to feel connected to the table without blocking sight lines. In entrances and living rooms, allow enough head clearance and choose a fitting that is proportional to the room.

Do I need an electrician to install my light fitting?

For wired fittings, outdoor lights, bathroom lights, dimmers and anything connected to mains power, use a qualified electrician. This protects the product, the warranty and the safety of the installation. Simple lamp changes are different, but fixed electrical work should be done properly.

What happens if a quoted item is out of stock?

If an item cannot be supplied at the time of quoting, it will be shown as out of stock and excluded from the quote total. Available items can still be quoted, and the unavailable item can be followed up when stock becomes available.

Do you offer free delivery?

Yes. RelightSA offers free standard delivery on orders over R1500 to main centres in South Africa. Rural or outlying delivery areas may need confirmation before dispatch.

How long does shipping take?

Standard delivery takes between 2 5 working days for main centers in South Africa. Rural areas may take 5 7 working days. Express delivery options (1 2 working days) are available at checkout.

What is your return policy?

We accept returns within 10 days of receipt. Items must be in original packaging, unused, and in the same condition as received. Return shipping is at the customer's expense. Contact info@relightsa.co.za to initiate a return. A 3.5% administration fee applies for order cancellations.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Visa and MasterCard through our secure Payfast payment gateway. For large orders, EFT payments can be arranged. All transactions are SSL encrypted for your security. Contact us for payment plans on bulk orders.

How can I track my order?

Once your order ships, you'll receive tracking updates via email and SMS. You can also track your order through your account on our website. For any tracking issues, contact us at info@relightsa.co.za.

Do you offer installation services?

While we don't provide installation services directly, we recommend using qualified electricians for all installations. We can provide detailed installation guidelines and specifications for our products. All electrical installations must comply with local regulations.

What are your business hours?

Our business hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 17:00. You can reach us at +27 (0) 82 562 6644 or email info@relightsa.co.za during these hours for any assistance.

Do you offer bulk discounts?

Yes, we offer competitive pricing for bulk orders and commercial projects. Contact us at info@relightsa.co.za with your requirements for a custom quote. Payment plans are available for large orders.

Where are you located?

Our physical address is 40 St Andrews Road, Claremont, Cape Town, South Africa. You can visit our showroom during business hours to view our lighting products in person.

Which areas do you deliver to?

We deliver to all major cities and towns in South Africa. Rural areas may incur additional charges. Free standard delivery is available for orders under R1500 to main centers. Contact us for international shipping inquiries.

Do you offer free delivery?

Yes, we offer free standard delivery on orders under R1500 to main centers in South Africa. This typically takes 2 5 working days. Rural areas may incur additional charges, and express delivery options are available at an extra cost.