It has to be said that, when it comes to choosing a desk lamp, halogen lighting is truly fit for purpose. Having made such a bold statement, it also has to be said that, whilst halogen lamps do indeed have many advantages, this form of illumination is surrounded by many myths, which this article aims to dispel.

Once you understand the basic physics behind halogen lighting, it is easier to appreciate where it can be used to the greatest advantage. Just as with the traditional light bulb, halogen lamps work on the principle of incandescence; simply, a wire filament is made to glow by passing and electric current through it. If the traditional light bulb were not surrounded by glass, the filament would just burn out.

In halogen lamps, the filament is housed within a glass envelope and surrounded by a mixture of inert gas and halogen. The result is that the filament burns brighter, hotter and for longer. The downside of this is an increased running temperature, which means that halogen lamps should no longer be the first choice for inset ceiling and wall lights. This is because they back into a small enclosed space, which makes them a potential fire hazard.

Another characteristic that some people see as a disadvantage is the lack of the rosy glow that comes from traditional light bulbs. When it comes to task lighting, however, a rosy glow is far less essential than clear illumination.

When it comes to desk lamp, the very different halogen light is ideal. This light bears little resemblance to the artificial light we have grown used to. It is bright, it is white and it goes exactly where you want it to.

Not only is this light brighter and whiter, it is also much closer to the daylight spectrum, therefore rendering colours more accurately and minimizing the risk of eye strain.

There is a disadvantage to all of this bright light though – halogen bulbs simply have to be shaded. Once shaded, however, you can direct clear white light exactly where you want it; on a desk, this will be onto the papers or spreadsheets you’re working on.

The other reason for the rising popularity of halogen lighting is the low running cost. A halogen light typically lasts two or three times longer than a standard bulb. Some commentators, in fact, quote a running life of up to 3,000 hours. At the same time halogen lamps use 10% to 20% less energy.

So there you have it – the truth about halogen lighting. These lamps may not be the definitive answer to all your lighting needs but when it comes to desk lamps they truly are the light of choice.

Want to find out more about halogen desk lamps, then visit Duncan Munday’s site on how to choose the best desk lamp for your needs.