GU10 LED Bulbs

GU10 Bulb FAQs

What is a GU10 Bulb?

A GU10 bulb is a type of bulb that’s commonly used in recessed downlights and spotlights. It features two lugged base pins and has tiny glass reflectors within the bulb that are used to direct and intensify the light. GU10 bulbs come in two main types: halogen and LED. GU10 LED bulbs are the most common as they are more energy efficient.

How Do You Remove and Change a GU10 Bulb?

You can remove and change a GU10 bulb with your hands in four simple steps.

Step 1 - Turn the Light Switch Off Be sure to turn off the switch before changing your bulb to prevent electrocution. You should also wait for the light bulb to cool down, especially if it’s a GU10 halogen bulb which can get hot.

Step 2 - Wear Heat-Proof Gloves (Optional) Although waiting for the bulb to cool down should be enough, it’s still a good idea to wear heat-proof gloves as they can also protect against electrical damage.

Step 3 - Remove the Plastic Ring (if Applicable) Some GU10 light bulbs will be lined with a ring of metal which will need to be removed before the bulb. You can do this by simply squeezing the two small prongs together on the ring, which should cause the ring to fall off.

Step 4 - Remove the Current Bulb Push against the current GU10 bulb with your thumbs and rotate it 90 degrees. Then, gently wriggle it until it loosens up and comes out.

Step 5 - Put in Your New GU10 bulb After safely removing the current GU10 bulb, it’s time to install your new one. Add gentle pressure to the bulb with your thumbs until the bulb pops into the socket. Then rotate it clockwise 90 degrees to secure it in place. You can then switch on the light switch to test if the light is functioning correctly.

Can I Replace GU10 Halogen Bulbs with LEDs?

Yes, you can generally replace most GU10 halogen bulbs with a GU10 LED as electrical current conversions happen at the bulb. However, some bulb types don’t do this and may require drivers to convert the AC current to DC. If in doubt, speak to a qualified electrician.

Are GU10 Bulbs Dimmable?

Yes, GU10 LED bulbs are available in a dimmable format. You can see plenty of options on this page - just look for the word dimmable in the product description!

Are All GU10 Bulbs the Same Size?

There’s no official GU10 standard bulb size. Most have a 53mm length and 50mm diameter. However, the size of the bulb can depend on its bulb type, which comes in four variations: PAR 16 - the most standard GU10 bulb with a 50-51mm diameter and 50-55mm length PAR 36 - 111mm diameter and 58-66m length. PAR 20 - 63.5mm diameter and 64-89mm length. PAR 28 - 120-121mm diameter and 134-136mm length. Most of these designs are made for specialist functions. Generally, you’ll likely need the standard PAR 16. Be sure to read the product description to get the right GU10 size you need.

Are GU10 Bulbs Energy Efficient?

It depends on the type of GU10 bulb you get. GU10 LED bulbs are up to 90% more efficient than halogen GU10 bulbs. LEDs also increase the lifespan to 50,000 hours.

Do GU10 Bulbs Need a Transformer?

No, GU10 bulbs don’t need a transformer. They can be directly installed into existing fixtures that accept the bulb type. But you may need a transformer if the fixture doesn’t accept LED bulbs.

Are GU10 and MR16 the Same Size?

No, GU10 and MR16 bulbs are different sizes. GU10 bulbs are slightly taller and have a ready-to-plug-in base. MR16s are bulkier and have a different socket.

Are GU10 Bulbs LED or Halogen?

There are two types of GU10 bulbs - LED and halogen. All modern GU10 bulbs that you buy will be LED. Halogen bulbs were phased out in Europe due to high CO2 emissions. The GU10 LED bulbs are far more energy efficient - producing five times less energy than the halogen variation.

Do GU10 Bulbs Get Hot?

Although GU10 bulbs can be hot to the touch, they generally keep a low temperature and are unlikely to burn or pose a fire risk.

Do GU10 Bulbs Need a Driver?

No, GU10 bulbs are mains voltage LED light bulbs and have a built-in driver. Other bulbs, like the MR16, require an external 12v driver.