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Determine lighting choice based on knowledge of technical specifications

May 12, 2026 | From the editors
When choosing lighting, it's important to understand the technical specifications. These can be found at Sales Nederland, including:
  • Lumen (lm) expresses the amount of visible light a lamp produces. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light. It's important to know how many lumens are needed, depending on the space. For example, an office needs more lumens than a living room.
  • Color temperature, expressed in Kelvin (K), determines the color of the light. Below 3000K produces warm light, while above 5000K produces cool light. Choosing the right color temperature can significantly influence the ambiance of a room.
  • Wattage indicates how much energy a lamp uses. LED lamps use fewer watts and have a higher light output. Voltage (V) is the required electrical voltage; most lamps operate on 220/230V. A transformer may be necessary if there is a significant difference.
  • The power factor indicates the ratio of actual power to apparent power. A power factor close to unity is ideal; a lower value means higher costs due to additional consumption.
  • The IP rating indicates protection against dust and moisture, while the IK rating indicates a fixture's impact resistance. This is important for outdoor lighting where protection from the elements and vandalism is required.