How to Buy the Right Reading Light for Your Reading Pleasure
General November 6th, 2009
When you’re searching for the right reading light, you need to be mindful of both where and how it will be used. First, what size and type of book will your light be used to illuminate? If it only needs to illuminate standard size so called mass market paperback books, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will probably be sufficient. If your reading light must evenly light a coffee table book, then you’ll need a reading light designed for significantly greater light output distributed over a significantly larger area. Another consideration is whether you prefer the warmer, slightly yellowish glow of an incandescent light source or the whiter, more “sun like” output of modern LEDs.
Another significant consideration is that of maintenance. While both LED and incandescent designs require approximately the same amount of power, using up batteries with about equal speed, incandescent designs have a life expectancy of between 15-25 hours of use. LEDs, while they are only slightly more expensive than incandescent designs, typically provide lifetimes between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will cost much less to operate over the long run if the reading light will be used for more than 15-25 hours.
Most modern reading light designs offer the flexibility of running on batteries or optional A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is convenient when the light is to be used anywhere an A/C outlet isn’t handy, but it can get expensive to replace batteries, as most fully charged alkaline batteries provide sufficient power only for about 20-30 hours of use. A good option to consider would be a good battery recharger and set of rechargeable batteries.
Finally, a reading light usually incorporates a sturdy clip which makes for easy attachment to your book, book holder or book stand. The clip also makes it handy to secure your reading light to a podium, music stand or piano music rack, which greatly increases the possible uses for your reading light. Some designs also offer an optional cradle that allows your clip on reading light to be mounted to any ferrous surface, such as an appliance, a car fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The possible applications are unlimited.
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