On Monday, December 2, 2013 3:43:00 PM UTC-8, Gary wrote:
Hi,



Our electrician recommended we replace the 85 50W halogen spotlights in our

ceilings with LEDs. We live in Costa Rica where electricity is expensive

and frequent lightening strikes and power surges blow out bulbs. If

possible we will use 12V LEDs. We will also be adding a whole house surge

protector. Our apartment has recessed CFLs in the ceilings. Would that be

a better option? We have no experience with LED lighting. We would

appreciate your opinions.



Thanks,

Gary

Recessed lighting was originally used in stores to light the merchandise without having to shine into the eyes of the customers and cause glare. The light bulbs that were used in these fixtures were spot (not flood) light bulbs which usually have only a ten degree of light distribution. People liked the aspect of non glaring ceiling lights so much that recessed lighting came to be widely used in residents as well.
1. Does your electrician know where to get a hold of spot (not flood) type LED light bulbs for under $55.00 each? If he does please let me know because I would like to get some too.
2. What is the light distribution of these LED light bulbs that your electrician is recommending? Is it ten degrees?
3. Will you mind if you completely defeat the original design and purpose of your recessed lighting?