April 2025
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Hospitality Lighting: lighting for bars, restaurants and pubs
Posted on: 28 Apr 2025. Category:Best place to source and buy hospitality lighting
In the world of hospitality, lighting is more than just a functional necessity—it's a key element that shapes the ambiance and experience of your space. Whether you're designing a cozy coffee shop, a vibrant bar, or an elegant restaurant, the right lighting can fully transform your venue. Let's explore just how LED tape, conduit lighting, festoon lighting, and pendant lighting can be utilized to create inviting atmospheres in bars, restaurants and coffee shops. Having supplied lighting/electrics for over 50 years and worked with a wide array of clientelle all over the UK we understand what is required from a project.
Robust/reliable products
Great pricing
Product knowledge and customer service
On time delivery and after sales support
LED Tape: Sleek, Subtle & Stylish
LED tape lighting is a very versatile solution that offers flexibility and efficiency. These 10mm thin, flexible strips can be installed in various locations to completely enhance the mood and highlight striking architectural features.
- Bars: Install LED tape under bar counters or along display and drinks shelves to create a soft, ambient glow that highlights bottles and glassware.
- Restaurants: Use colour-changing RGB LED tape along ceiling coves or beneath banquette seating to adjust the ambiance from daytime to evening service.
- Coffee Shops: Place LED strips under counters or along window frames to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Feature Pendant Lighting: Bold, Sculptural, and Functional
Pendant lighting brings a bold visual focus to any hospitality space. Hung from the ceiling, pendant lights come in a range of styles—from minimal and modern to vintage and rustic—and can define zones, add texture, or offer warm task lighting.
- Bars:
Use a row of pendants above the bar counter for both functional and industrial lighting for a dramatic design element. Opt for smoked glass, brass finishes, or matte black for a more refined touch. - Restaurants:
Pendants above tables create intimate pools of light that encourage relaxed dining and conversation. Mix and match styles across the room that will reflect the restaurant's personality and individuality. - Coffee Shops:
A mix of pendants over the ordering counter or seating areas adds visual rhythm and coziness. Think exposed bulbs, ceramic shades, or rattan textures to reflect an artisanal or bohemian vibe.
Pendant lighting not only complements other types of mood lighting like LED tape and conduit—it anchors the space and gives it a clear visual identity.
Conduit Lighting: Industrial Meets Chic
Conduit lighting combines functionality with a stylish industrial aesthetic. Exposed conduit and Edison bulbs can add character and warmth to your space.
- Bars: Mount conduit fixtures with Edison bulbs overhead to create a vintage, industrial look.
- Restaurants: Design custom lighting paths across ceilings or down walls to serve as both illumination and design elements.
- Coffee Shops: Pair minimal pendant lighting with exposed conduit for a handcrafted, artisan feel.
Festoon Lighting: Casual Charm with a Glow
Festoon lighting brings a relaxed, charming vibe to any space. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings, festoon lights can enhance the atmosphere with their warm glow.
- Bars: Drape festoon lights over rooftop terraces or beer gardens to create an inviting outdoor space.
- Restaurants: Use festoon lighting above shared tables or outdoor dining areas to foster a communal, friendly atmosphere.
- Coffee Shops: Inside or out, festoon lights add a playful, nostalgic feel, perfect for indie cafés or family-friendly hangouts.
Recommended Products
To help you get started, here are some product recommendations:
- LED Tape: - Made to measure LED tape | Electricsandlighting.co.uk
- Conduit Lighting: - | Electricsandlighting.co.uk
- Festoon Lighting: - | Electricsandlighting.co.uk
- Pendant Lighting: - Indoor Lighting | Electricsandlighting.co.uk
Conclusion
The right lighting can significantly enhance the atmosphere of your hospitality venue. By thoughtfully integrating LED tape, conduit lighting, and festoon lighting, you can create spaces that are not only functional but also inviting and memorable. Consider your venue's unique character and the experience you wish to provide to your guests when selecting and installing lighting solutions.
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Warming Up with Watts: How Electric Heating is Powering the Future
Posted on: 22 Apr 2025. Category:Warming Up with Watts: How Electric Heating is Powering the Future
With energy costs and efficiency top of mind for homeowners, electric heating solutions have become a popular choice. Whether you're updating a single room, heating an outdoor patio, or looking to save money with off-peak electricity, there’s an electric heater that fits the bill.
In this guide, we’ll break down the four main types of electric heating systems: electric radiators, panel heaters, outdoor heaters, and night storage heaters—so you can make the right choice for your home.
Electric Radiators: Modern Heating with Maximum Control
Electric radiators offer the classic warmth of traditional systems with a modern, energy-efficient twist. Unlike water-based radiators, they use a thermodynamic fluid or dry heat elements to provide even, long-lasting warmth.
Why Choose Electric Radiators?
- Ideal for primary home heating
- Great for rooms used daily
- Often programmable or smart-enabled
- Efficient and low-maintenance
- Easy installation—just plug in
- Smart thermostats and zoning control
Panel Heaters: Slim, Fast, and Stylish
Panel heaters are lightweight, slimline units that heat up quickly. They work through convection, heating the air in a room rather than the objects or people.
Perfect For:
- Guest bedrooms
- Hallways or conservatories
- Occasional use spaces
Great because:
- Quick heat-up time
- Budget-friendly
- Sleek, modern designs
Keep in Mind:
- Less effective at retaining heat
- Not ideal for all-day heating
Outdoor Heaters: Stay Warm in the Open Air
Electric outdoor heaters use infrared technology to directly heat people and surfaces rather than the air. This makes them incredibly effective, even in breezy conditions.
Best For:
- Patios and balconies
- Garden bars and pergolas
- Commercial terraces and outdoor dining areas
Good because:
- Instant heat, no warm-up time
- Safe for semi-enclosed spaces
- Weatherproof options available
Night Storage Heaters: Smart Use of Off-Peak Energy
Night storage heaters are designed to charge up using cheaper, off-peak electricity, then release that heat slowly throughout the day. While an older technology, newer models offer better control and efficiency.
Great For:
- Homes on Economy 7 or similar tariffs
- All-day heat without daytime electricity use
- Cost-conscious households
Pros:
- Lower running costs (on off-peak plans)
- Low maintenance
- Modern models offer better control
Considerations:
- Heat release can feel inflexible
- Requires planning on cold days
How to Choose the Right Electric Heater
Before buying, ask yourself:
- How often will the room be used?
- Do I want fast heat or long-lasting warmth?
- Am I on a special electricity tariff like Economy 7?
- Do I want app or smart control?
Conclusion: Heat Your Home Smarter
From stylish electric radiators to efficient night storage heaters and powerful outdoor solutions, there's an electric heating option to suit every space and lifestyle. With the right setup, you can enjoy a warm, energy-efficient home all year round.
Need Help Choosing the Right Electric Heater?
We’re here to help! Whether you're renovating, upgrading, or just want advice – email us at: sales@ablectrics.com, or browse our range of recommended electric heating products on this website.
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Why you should make the switch to LED
Posted on: 14 Apr 2025. Category:Why LED Lighting is a Smart Move
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Energy Efficiency
LEDs use a fraction of the electricity compared to incandescent and halogen bulbs. That means lower energy bills and less environmental impact. LEDs convert around 90–95% of the energy they consume into light. Compare that to an old-school incandescent bulb, which wastes up to 90% as heat. That means with LEDs, you get the same (or better) brightness while using a fraction of the electricity. A 5W LED bulb can produce the same light output as a 50W halogen. Multiply that across all the bulbs in your home, and the savings are big.
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Long Lifespan
An average LED lasts 25,000 to 50,000 hours. If you run a light for 4 hours a day, that’s 17–34 years before it burns out. Compare that to:
Incandescent: 1,000 hours
Halogen: 2,000 hours
CFL: 8,000 hours
That’s fewer replacements, less maintenance, and long-term savings.
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Cooler and Safer
Unlike traditional bulbs that heat up quickly, LEDs stay cool to the touch, reducing fire risk and making them safer in enclosed spaces or for use around children and pets.
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Versatile and Stylish
LED lighting comes in all shapes and styles—from bulbs and panels to tape and strips. Plus, they’re available in a wide range of colour temperatures (from warm white to daylight) and RGB options (for vibrant colour effects).
Types of LED Lighting You’ll Love
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LED Strip Lights
Perfect for mood lighting, task lighting, or just adding a modern aesthetic, LED strip lights (also called LED tape) are flexible, low-profile lights that can be placed under cabinets, behind TVs, along shelves, or even outdoors. Many strips come with remote controls or smart home compatibility, so you can change colours, brightness, or even sync them to music.
Great for: Kitchens, gaming setups, living room ambiance, backlighting, and accent walls.
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GU10 LED Spotlights
GU10s are twist-and-lock spotlights, typically used in ceilings, tracks, or downlights. The LED versions are a direct replacement for old halogen GU10s, but they run cooler and use far less energy. They offer focused, directional lighting, making them ideal for highlighting certain areas or creating clean, modern lines.
Great for: Kitchens, hallways, bathrooms, and commercial settings like shops and galleries.
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E27 & E14 LED Bulbs
These are your classic screw-in bulb shapes, available in both large (E27) and small (E14) sizes. They’re super easy to replace and come in everything from candle-shaped designs to globe styles. Choose “warm white” for cozy spaces, or “cool white” for work areas like offices or kitchens.
Great for: Table lamps, chandeliers, ceiling fixtures, and decorative lighting.
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LED Panels & Downlights
For ultra-modern interiors, LED panels and recessed downlights offer sleek, low-profile lighting that’s especially effective in offices, bathrooms, or minimalist living areas.
Great for: Ceilings, commercial spaces, and anywhere you want an even, diffused light.
Final Thoughts: Why Make the Switch?
Switching to LED lighting isn’t just about saving money—it’s about enhancing your environment. Whether you’re creating a calm vibe with LED strips, spotlighting your artwork with GU10s, or simply reducing your power usage, LEDs offer the best of both worlds: style and sustainability. So next time you're swapping out a bulb or revamping a space, go LED. You’ll see (and feel) the difference.
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Over 60s discount on lighting at Ablectrics every Sat
Posted on: 07 Apr 2025. Category: Ablectrics - The electrical WholesalerOver 60s get a discount Every Saturday at Ablectrics!
At Ablectrics, we believe in lighting up your life in more ways than one — and that includes making sure you get the best deals on all your lighting needs. That’s why we’re excited to offer an exclusive Saturday discount for our customers aged 60 and over. Whether you’re updating your home or just looking to brighten up a room, this is your chance to save while you shop for quality lighting products.
Saturday Savings now available only in the showroom
Every Saturday, seniors aged 60 and above can enjoy:
- 10% off any lighting
- 15% off any LED lights
We know how important it is to create a cozy, well-lit environment in your home. So, whether you’re looking for elegant chandeliers, stylish pendant lights, or energy-efficient LEDs, we’ve got you covered with discounts that make it even easier to refresh your space.
Why Choose LED Lights?
LED lights are not only incredibly energy-efficient but also longer-lasting and more durable than traditional bulbs. They give off less heat, use significantly less energy, and are better for the environment. Plus, they can help you save money on your electricity bills. It’s a win-win!
Whether you're upgrading your current lights to LED or installing new fixtures in your home, our shop offers a wide variety of options in all styles, from modern to classic, to fit any decor.
Why Shop with Us?
- Quality Products: We carry top-of-the-line lighting solutions and electrical products to ensure you get only the best for your home.
- Expert Advice: Our team has over 50 years experience and is here to guide you through your purchase, offering expert advice on the best lighting solutions for your needs.
- Personalized Service: We take pride in offering tailored recommendations for your space, whether you're working on a specific project or simply updating a room.
- Convenient Location & Hours: With our Saturday-only senior discount, you can plan your shopping trip with ease.
A Little Extra Sparkle for Our Senior Customers
We want to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to enjoy a well-lit, energy-efficient home. That’s why we’ve created this special Saturday discount, exclusively for customers aged 60 and over. It’s our way of saying “thank you” for your continued support and loyalty!
So, if you’re 60 or older, make sure to stop by on a Saturday and take advantage of these fantastic deals. Whether you’re in the market for stylish lighting to enhance your home or need to switch to more efficient LEDs, we’ve got the perfect product for you.
Visit Us This Saturday!
Remember, these discounts are available only on Saturdays, which we close our shop at 1pm, so don’t miss out! Our team is eager to help you find the perfect lighting for your space and ensure you leave with a smile — and a great deal in your pocket.
Come on down and light up your home for less at Ablectrics. We look forward to serving you!