Work

What Makes a Good Work Light?

Power Source

A work light's power source includes your light's power supply as well as the type of battery utilized. Corded work lights provide continuous illumination; however, cordless work lights, also known as battery-operated work lights, are smaller and easier to transport. If your job takes you to different locations each day, a battery-operated light is the right choice. For best results, we recommend using a portable work light with a Lithium-ion battery, as this chemistry weighs less, it lasts longer and is more stable. If cost is an important factor, Lead Acid batteries are a satisfactory second choice to Lithium-ion. What about generator-based lights? Cordless work lights are safer to use and are more flexible, when it comes to placement. Additionally, battery-powered RALS are quiet, do not require the use of flammable fuel, have lower heat signatures and eliminate any exhaust fumes. When dealing with handheld or smaller-sized work lights, the team at BatteryJunction recommends utilizing Li-ion or Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. NiMH batteries offer a long lifespan and are more stable than NiCd, therefore making them reliable second choice to Lithium-ion. Alkaline-powered work lights, while convenient, are not as cost effective.

Light Source

What makes LED light bulbs better than CFL, incandescent and halogen bulbs? For starters, LED lights are more cost-effective and energy-efficient - lasting five times longer than CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs. CFL bulbs are bright; however, they give off a green hue that may have a negative effect on your workspace. This is certainly something to consider when dealing with colors and during inspections. Incandescent bulbs are typically found in the cheaper work lights, which are typically corded and therefore not very portable. Lastly, halogen bulbs, while incredibly bright, produce quite a bit of heat that may be a fire hazard in some areas. In addition to the light bulb, it is important to understand the beam output of your lamps. COB (chips on board) light rails, for example feature a cluster of diode chips positioned strategically within one module to generate an intensely bright light. COB lights are extremely popular and do not require a lot of maintenance.