Lumena 5W MR16 LED Bulb

This 5W Lumena LED MR16 is available in Warm White and Daylight White. This high quality MR16 has a bright lumens output of 480 and is most common for use in applications such as spotlights and spikelights in the garden. This MR16, also known as a GU5.3, is suitable for use with all 12v lighting systems. LED MR16 bulbs are very reliable with a long life expectancy, have a high lumen output and also use less energy. This 5W LED MR16 will also work with AC transformers including the ones Lumena supply.

Replacing Existing 12v Halogen Bulbs to LEDs

All 12v systems require a transformer in order to convert the 230v mains supply to only 12 volts; the required voltage for low voltage light bulbs such as G4s, MR11s and MR16s (G5.3). With the amount of money and energy LEDs can save a household, along with their long lifespan, many people are replacing their existing halogen bulbs with LED equivalents. However, there are a couple of things to consider. Here is what you need to know…

There are two different types of transformers: magnetic and electronic. Old style magnetic or ‘wire wound’ transformers, are fairly simple, using coiled wires around an iron core to convert the power to 12v output. All Lumena transformers work in this way. Electronic transformers have more complications, with some older types produced prior to LED bulbs, uncompatible with LEDs. The electronics of the transformer tend to interfere with the electronics of the LED bulbs, thus causing flashing, flickering or even no light output at all. Newer electronic transformers are generally designed to power LEDs, and therefore work well, as long as the wattage and current type are also correct.

Some LED bulbs will only work with 12v DC power supply. These need a 12v DC transformer or they will not work correctly, if at all. Some LED bulbs, such as Lumena’s LED G4s, MR11s and MR16s run off of both 12v AC and 12v DC. Either an AC or DC 12v transformer will work, causing no issues at all.

All transformers have a wattage range for close consideration.

If you have a transformer previously used with halogen bulbs and you are looking to change these to LED, the likelihood is that the transformer will be too large for the system, expecting a higher amount of current to be running through the system. LEDs use up to 90% less power than halogens. Therefore a lower wattage transformer should be used so as not to underload the transformer. If a transformer is underloaded, it produces a higher voltage output, and may cause the LED bulbs to flicker or fail prematurely. Under normal circumstances, it is expected that only the circuit in question will be tripped. If any further lights in the household were to blow, we would advise a second professional opinion in case there is an issue with the electrical wiring.