Let There Be Light - RV Enthusiast Magazine

Let There Be Light

by | Mar 24, 2022 | Pro Tip, RVEXPERT

Replacing standard G4 halogen bulbs typically found in puck-style fixtures with LEDs will lower power requirements while reducing heat and increasing longevity.

Interior lighting has gone through a number of transitions over the years, and halogen bulbs at one time were more fashionable. These bulbs emitted quite a bit of light and were easily tucked inside puck-style fixtures that added a big touch of modernism to any ceiling or under countertops. The downsides are higher energy requirements and tremendous heat — halogen bulbs draw twice the amperage of their incandescent counterparts. Small reason why LEDs quickly — which use only a tiny amount of energy — are now the bulb of choice. Fortunately, it’s easy to swap out the existing halogen bulb with an LED disc, and it only takes a few minutes.

showing the part on his palm
LED replacements for standard G4 halogen bulbs found in common puck-style fixtures have the same bi-pin design and can be obtained easily online.

The first step is deciding on the LED bulb that best suits your needs. As usual, the Internet is loaded with product in this arena. There are different light temperatures and lumen ratings. The higher the temperature, the brighter the light. And, the higher the lumens, the brighter the light. You may prefer a higher-temperature LED, rated around 5,000 Kelvin, in areas where bright light is needed, while a softer, more yellow tint of a 3,000-Kelvin bulb may be more desirable in areas where you lounge.

Halogen puck-style fixtures use a standard G4 bulb with two pins that push into a socket. A good replacement that’s easy to work with is a GB Concept LED G4 Bulb, configured in a plastic disc with the standard bi-pin connection. These bulbs are available in warm or daylight versions, draw only 1.8 watts and have brightness rating of 220 lumens. They operate on 12-volt DC power and are dimmable. You can buy a box of 10 bulbs for $24.95 on Amazon.

gripping the lens
The hardest part of replacing the bulb is getting a strong grip on the lens so it can be twisted off the housing. Some of these can be stubborn after years of not being moved.
taking out the old bulb
The original G4 bulb is first pulled from its base. Don’t worry about touching the glass with your fingers if you plan on discarding the bulb.
using a small screwdriver
removing the reflector
A small screwdriver is used to pry the reflector from the fixture housing. Be careful not to apply too much force and damage the housing. Once the edge is released the reflector will come out easily. Do not discard the reflectors until you’re satisfied with the project.

The installation is straightforward: The hardest part is getting a grip on the fixture’s lens to turn it for removal. Once you pull the existing bulb out — which only requires a pulling motion. — the reflector has to be removed to make room for the new LED disc. This can be done by prying out the edge with a small screwdriver. After the new bulb is inserted into the pin holes, the lens can be reinstalled.

No doubt you’ll be using less energy — as much as 85% as touted by the LED bulb manufacturer — but there will be a little loss in overall brightness, especially when using the warm LEDs. While the LED disc will project a beam angle of 180 degrees, it doesn’t have the benefit of the reflector. If more light is needed, the daylight version can be selected, but quite frankly, most RVs that are equipped with puck-lights will have multiple fixtures, so any overall lighting loss will not be much of an issue for most people, as was the case in the bedroom where this project was completed.

Boondockers will certainly appreciate the lower energy requirement — and everyone will enjoy the reduction of heat normally generated by halogen bulbs.

inserting the new led disc
The new LED disc is pushed into the bi-pin socket with very little pressure. Make sure the pins are lined up in their respective holes before pushing.
the finished light turned on
Although there was a reduction in illumination, the multiple fixtures in the bedroom ceiling provided enough overall coverage for our tastes. Warm (3,000 Kelvin) bulbs were used for this project; daylight versions will provide more light.
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