Brief description

In most cases, low voltage halogens are lamps integrated with a reflector. Those without a reflector are typically known as “Burner” lamps. They are typically used in downlights or spotlights to produce a whiter light than that produced from mains voltage halogens. The filament is smaller too, making the light cleaner and crisper. Low voltage halogens emit very precise light beams and come in a range of beam angles. If you want to use one of these lamps, you'll need a transformer to convert the 240V main supply to a lower 12V AC. Most (but not all) transformers are dimmable.

Advantages

Crisp, clean, full spectrum light in a focused beam in a range of beam angles
Good 'sparkle' for retail applications

Disadvantages

Requires separate low voltage transformer
Can create a significant amount of heat (potentially increasing your air conditioning costs)

Energy efficient lamps available

There are new low voltage halogen reflector lamps and bulbs that are designed with a special infra-red coating (IRC) on the bulb that produce the equivalent or more light than a standard halogen and use 30% less electricity. This means you can use a more efficient 35W bulb everywhere you would normally use one that is 50W.

Recommendations

1. If your business uses halogens for specific spotlighting applications, install a dimmer where appropriate and change to 30% more efficient IRC halogen spotlight lamps. These will last twice as long as the standard lamps.
2. If your business uses halogens for more general lighting, changing to an alternative form of lighting for improved space lighting and lower operating costs may be worth considering.