Voltage

The choice between 12V , 24V, and 230V lighting depends heavily on the application, installation requirements, and energy needs. Each system has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the size of the installation, the type of lighting, and the distance between the power source and the lighting. Below, I discuss the differences between 12V, 24V, and 230V lighting , so you can make an informed choice for your lighting system.

1. Voltage and Current

• 12V lighting :
• Voltage : 12V DC (direct current).
• Uses : Commonly used in smaller applications such as automotive lighting , garden lighting , and residential interior lighting .
• Current : 12V systems have a higher current than 24V or 230V systems for the same amount of power. This can lead to greater voltage drop over longer distances.
• 24V lighting :
• Voltage : 24V DC (direct current).
• Uses : Widely used for larger lighting systems , such as LED strips , architectural lighting , and garden lighting . It's more efficient for larger projects than 12V.
• Current : At 24V the current is lower than at 12V for the same power, resulting in less voltage drop over longer cable runs.
• 230V lighting :
• Voltage : 230V AC (alternating current).
• Use : The standard type of lighting for households , commercial buildings , and industrial applications .
• Current : 230V systems have a lower current for the same power, which minimizes voltage loss over long distances and makes it easier to connect more lights to one system.

2. Ease of installation

• 12V lighting :
• Installation : Because 12V systems use less power, they are relatively easier to install and often require smaller cables . They are ideal for smaller installations and DIY projects .
• Power Supply : Requires a 24V or 12V power transformer to convert the 230V AC to 12V DC.
• 24V lighting :
• Installation : Installation is similar to that of 12V lighting, but you usually need slightly longer cables for higher wattages. It's less susceptible to voltage drop over longer distances than 12V lighting.
• Power supply : 24V lighting also requires an inverter to convert the 230V AC to 24V DC.
• 230V lighting :
• Installation : 230V lighting is connected directly to the mains , without the need for a separate transformer or inverter. This makes installation less complex than with 12V or 24V lighting.
• Power Supply : Since it uses the grid directly, inverter and driver costs do not apply.

3. Energy Consumption and Efficiency

• 12V lighting :
• Efficiency : 12V lighting is less efficient over longer cable runs due to higher voltage drop . This can lead to energy loss and lower light output if the lighting is located far from the power supply.
• Application : Usually suitable for smaller applications where the lighting is close to the power source, such as in a living room or a garden.
• 24V lighting :
• Efficiency : 24V lighting has less voltage drop than 12V lighting over long cable runs, making it more efficient for larger installations.
• Application : Ideal for larger applications such as shop lighting , industrial lighting or long LED strips in gardens or homes.
• 230V lighting :
• Efficiency : 230V lighting is very efficient over long distances because there is virtually no voltage loss over the cables, as 230V has a high voltage and the current is low.
• Application : Suitable for large commercial installations , residential and industrial applications where lighting over longer distances or larger areas is required.

4. Safety

• 12V lighting :
• Safety : 12V lighting is considered safe for indoor use and for applications where lighting must be used in humid or damp environments , such as garden lighting or bathrooms . The low voltage makes it less dangerous for the user.
• 24V lighting :
• Safety : 24V lighting is safe for commercial and residential applications, especially when covering longer distances. However, it is not suitable for environments where the risk of electric shock is greater than with 12V.
• 230V lighting :
• Safety : 230V lighting carries a higher risk of electric shock than 12V and 24V systems, meaning extra precautions must be taken during installation. However, it is often used in professional settings with safety standards and approved installations.

5. Costs

• 12V lighting :
• Cost : The initial cost of 12V lighting is often lower , both for the lighting itself and the associated transformers. This makes it attractive for smaller projects.
• Long-term costs : If long cable runs are required or if lighting needs to be powered over longer distances, costs may increase due to the increased voltage drop .
• 24V lighting :
• Cost : The cost of 24V lighting is often slightly higher than that of 12V lighting, mainly due to the longer cables and sometimes the cost of larger drivers . However, 24V lighting is more efficient over longer distances, making it more cost-effective for larger installations.
• Long-term costs : Less voltage drop means lower energy costs in the long run.
• 230V lighting :
• Costs : 230V lighting is often cheaper to purchase for larger lighting systems because it works directly without the need for inverters. Installation is also easier, which can save labor costs.
• Long-term costs : Energy costs are generally lower for larger installations than for 12V systems, but installation costs may be higher depending on the complexity of the wiring and the fixtures used.

6. Light Output and Control

• 12V lighting :
• Light output : 12V lighting offers less power for the current it consumes, so the light output may be lower than with 24V or 230V lighting. This can be a limitation for larger or brighter spaces.
• Control : Dimmability and small installations can be better managed with 12V systems.
• 24V lighting :
• Light output : 24V lighting offers a higher light output and better light distribution over longer distances than 12V lighting.
• Control : It is better suited for long strips and large installations , and is often dimmable for variable lighting.
• 230V lighting :
• Light output : 230V lighting has a high light output per watt of consumption, making it ideal for large lighting systems .
• Control : Dimmability and lighting can be controlled via smart systems or switches , although control options often depend on the type of fixture.

Summary of the Differences:

Feature	12V Lighting	24V Lighting	230V Lighting
Tension	12V DC	24V DC	230V AC
Current strength	High for the same power	Less than 12V for the same power	Low for the same power
Efficiency	Lower over long cable distances	Better efficiency over long distances	Very efficient over long distances
Ease of installation	Easy for small installations	Easier than 12V for larger installations	Direct connection, less complex
Safety	Very safe for small installations	Safe for commercial applications	Greater risk of shocks
Costs	Cheap to purchase	Slightly more expensive than 12V	Often cheaper for larger systems
Application	Small to medium-sized projects