Halogen or LED Bulb? What to Choose for Lighting Your Cooktop?

Halogen bulbs have been the most commonly used in kitchen range hoods for the past 60 years. However, the introduction of LED technology has brought a true revolution in lighting technology and light design.

If you want to learn about the differences between halogen and LED bulbs for range hood lighting and understand which type of light best suits your hood model, keep reading.

Choosing the right lighting for your range hood directly affects energy efficiency and your overall kitchen experience.

Halogen Bulbs

Halogen bulbs contain a tungsten filament that heats up when an electric current passes through it, becoming incandescent and emitting both heat and light. Inside the bulb, a small capsule of compressed halogen gas extends its lifespan.

These bulbs typically operate at a standard 220-240V voltage, but most spotlights run on 12V. This means they require a transformer to function, which converts the alternating current from the main voltage to the desired output voltage.

Multiple spotlights can be connected to a single transformer, but the total power consumption of the bulbs must not exceed the transformer's rated capacity (e.g., 70W, 105W, or 150W).

Halogen bulbs for extractor or recirculating hoods

LED Bulbs

LED bulbs function entirely differently from halogen bulbs because they use a diode to convert electric current into visible light. This advanced technology employs electronic chips at the base of the bulb.

With the introduction of LED technology, wattage is no longer the best measure of brightness. Instead, lumens indicate how bright a bulb will be. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light.

? Lumen is the unit of measurement for the light output of a source, whether artificial or natural.

LED bulbs for kitchen range hoods

Not all LED spotlights have the same base fitting, so it’s essential to check which one is compatible with your range hood. The four main types are:

  • GU10
  • GU5.3
  • GU4
  • G53

Another option is integrated LED recessed spotlights, which are more durable and energy-efficient. However, if they fail, the entire fixture must be replaced instead of just the bulb.

LED spotlight for range hoods

Remember that most modern range hoods already come with integrated LED lighting, as it is much more energy-efficient. However, if your hood is older, it may still use halogen bulbs for illumination.

Halogen vs. LED: Key Differences

LED Bulb

Halogen Bulb

ENERGY CONSUMPTION

LED technology onsumes up to 85% less energy compared to halogen bulbs.

Halogen bulb wastes 80% of energy as heat, using only 20% for lighting.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

LED bulbs are more sustainable and eco-friendly.

Halogen bulbs consume more energy and have a higher environmental impact.

BRIGHTNESS STABILITY

LED bulds instantly reach full brightness and provide consistent light.

Halogen bulbs are affected by frequent on/off cycles, which can impact brightness consistency.

LIFESPAN

LED bulbs last up to 15 years with 4 hours of daily use.

Halogen bulbs last only 2-3 years under the same conditions.

ILLUMINATION

An 18W LED bulb emits 1,300 lumens.

An 18W halogen bulb emits 220 lumens (much dimmer).

HEAT PRODUCTION

A LED bulb does not produce heat, converting all energy into light.

An halogen bulb produces heat, raising the ambient temperature. 

Do you know that burning sensation when you touch a halogen bulb? That’s all the heat being wasted instead of being used to produce light!

COST

The cost of a LED bulb is higher but saves money over time due to lower energy consumption.

Halogen bulbs are cheaper but less efficient, making maintenance price increase over time.

How to Maintain and Replace Bulbs in Your Range Hood

Maintenance is similar for both LED and halogen bulbs—you need to replace the bulbs or spotlights once they stop working.

Important: When replacing halogen bulbs, avoid touching the glass with your fingers, even if the bulb is cold. Oils and sweat from your skin can leave residue on the bulb, which burns when the bulb heats up, causing blackening, reduced efficiency, and even breakage over time.

Need Replacement Bulbs or Spotlights for Your Range Hood?

At Filtro Cappa, you can find all the accessories and spare parts your hood needs to operate at peak efficiency.

You’ll also find a blog section with answers to various troubleshooting issues you might encounter during everyday use of your range hood.

If the blog isn’t enough and you need expert advice, you can request assistance by sending us a message on WhatsApp or contacting us via email.