If you’ve ever had a halogen floodlight blow just as you needed it most, you’ll know the frustration. Bright one moment... gone the next. The good news is, those days of constantly replacing burnt-out halogen tubes can be over. Swapping to a 118mm dimmable R7S LED bulb is one of the easiest — and most rewarding — lighting upgrades you can make at home or at the office.
At Future Light, we’ve spent over 16 years helping South Africans upgrade their lighting — from busy factories in Gauteng to relaxed holiday homes in Jeffrey’s Bay. One of the most common upgrades we’ve seen recently is customers replacing their outdoor halogen security lights with energy-saving R7S LEDs. The results? Lower electricity bills, far less heat, and lighting that lasts much longer.
Key Takeaways
- Halogen floodlights burn hot and don’t last long — especially with load shedding's power surges.
- Replacing with 118mm R7S dimmable LEDs is a simple, energy-efficient fix.
- Installation only takes a few minutes with the right bulb size and fitting.
- LEDs are cooler to the touch and drastically reduce wattage — saving you money long-term.
- R7S LED bulbs fall under the LED bulb collection.
- This small upgrade can make your driveway, patio, or braai area both safer and sleeker.
Why Replace Your Halogen Floodlights With R7S LEDs?
High Heat & Power Consumption
Halogen bulbs operate at extremely high temperatures, and they draw a lot of energy — usually around 300W or even 500W depending on your fitting. That’s a strain not just on your bill, but on your entire home's electrical system.
Short Lifespan & Fragility
We often hear customers say their halogen tubes “pop” after just a few months, especially with power fluctuations. The fragile filaments inside halogen bulbs don’t cope well with voltage surges or environmental moisture — something we experience plenty of in coastal provinces like KZN and the Western Cape.
LED = Long-Term Savings
With an R7S LED replacement, you’re looking at wattages between 8W and 15W and lifespans of 25,000+ hours. That’s up to 85% less electricity usage, and up to 10 times the life span. Plus, the LED version emits far less heat, which is great for enclosed, weather-sensitive fixtures.
Switching to an R7S LED means less heat, less stress, and big savings on your energy bill.
How to Choose the Right R7S LED Bulb
Check the Length
The most common size for household halogen floodlights is 118mm, so make sure your LED replacement matches that exactly. Some fixtures also take the shorter 78mm version — double-check before running off to the shops!
Consider the Wattage Equivalent
If you’re replacing a 300W halogen tube, a 10W–15W LED version will give you similar brightness. Go slightly higher if you want a stronger beam for security lighting or wide-area coverage.
Dimmable or Not?
If your existing fixture is on a dimmer switch, you’ll need a dimmable R7S LED bulb. Not all are — so make sure “dimmable” is clearly marked. Otherwise, you’ll face flickering or short life.
Match the bulb size and double-check for dimmable compatibility — it’ll save you a return trip!
Conclusion
Upgrading your floodlights with R7S dimmable LEDs is one of the smartest moves you can make — whether you're boosting backyard security or creating ambiance around your braai spot. Explore our full range of LED bulbs, including premium R7S models, or discover brilliant outdoor options from our LED Floodlight Collection. Need dimmable control? Don’t miss a step with our guide to dimmable lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I replace a halogen floodlight bulb with an LED without changing the entire fitting?
A: Yes, as long as the fitting supports the R7S base and the same physical length (commonly 118mm), you can drop in an LED replacement bulb. Just ensure heat dissipation is handled well.
Q2: Do R7S LEDs get as hot as halogen floodlight tubes?
A: No, R7S LED bulbs operate at significantly lower temperatures, making them safer and more energy-efficient.
Q3: Is it worth getting a dimmable R7S LED?
A: Absolutely — if your fixture is on a dimmer circuit. Using a non-dimmable LED on a dimmer switch will cause flickering and reduce lifespan.
Q4: Are R7S LED bulbs waterproof?
A: The bulbs themselves are not waterproof, but if installed in sealed, outdoor-rated fixtures, they’ll be perfectly safe for use outside.
Q5: Will switching to LED cut down my electricity bill noticeably?
A: Yes! Swapping a 300W halogen for a 10W – 15W LED drastically reduces energy use, saving you real money over time.
Q6: What colour temperature should I choose for outdoor use?
A: For security and visibility, 6000K Cool White works best. For ambiance near patios or gardens, warmer tones (3000K) are better.
Q7: Can power surges damage my new LED bulbs?
A: Yes. Though LEDs are more resilient, excessive surges can still damage them. Consider surge protectors — especially in areas with frequent load shedding.
Q8: Where can I buy reliable 118mm dimmable R7S LED bulbs in South Africa?
A: Right here at Future Light! View our LED bulb collection for trusted, high-quality selections ready for SA conditions.
