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Switching from 10W 12V Halogen Bulbs to LED: Is It Possible Without Fixture Replacement?

BatSk8 26343 46
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Can I replace 12V G4 halogen bulbs with LED bulbs without replacing the whole chandelier?

Yes—those halogens can be replaced with 12V G4 LED lamps without changing the chandelier, but you must match both the G4 socket and the fixture’s transformer [#15878062] [#15882387] If the chandelier uses an electronic halogen transformer, it may have a minimum-load requirement, which is why LEDs alone can flicker, dim, or even switch off; in that case, replace the transformer with an LED-compatible one or a normal/toroidal transformer instead [#15922308] [#15922756] [#15958421] The advice from the thread was to size the new supply with some headroom, about 30% above the LED load [#15958332] AC/DC G4 LEDs were used successfully, and after replacing the old halogen supplies the fixtures worked steadily and became much brighter while using much less power [#15979205]
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  • #1 15878029
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
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    Hello!

    Maybe this is a stupid question, but is it possible to replace halogen lamps with normal LEDs?

    I am renting a flat, where the main lighting consists of approx. 30-40 halogen bulbs, 10W each, powered by 12V.
    The lights give practically zero, and the electricity is definitely more consuming compared to the LEDs. Not to mention the fact that these bulbs are dying like flies and need to be replaced quite often. Oh - and they make noise :-)

    Currently, the apartment looks like it was lit by a soft "night" light in the evening.

    Can these bulbs be replaced with LED SMB or, if necessary, DIP, without replacing the entire chandelier?

    These are my bulbs:
    http://www.elektrowat.eu/files/zarowka-halogenowa-jc-10w-12v-g4.jpg

    If it can be replaced with LEDs, under what password should I look for matching ones?

    Thank you in advance for your help
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  • #3 15878781
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
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    Thank you very much!

    Subject to be closed :-)
  • #4 15879093
    gogi20
    Level 24  
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    Will we still see it until closing :) Replace first ... maybe you will come back in the forum later to describe the problems :)
  • #5 15879280
    mawerix123
    Level 39  
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    BatSk8 wrote:
    Can these bulbs be replaced with LED SMB or, if necessary, DIP, without replacing the entire chandelier?


    It all depends on the power supply / transformer used and the voltage of the AC / DC LEDs
  • #6 15882076
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
    Posts: 51
    Rate: 7
    Unfortunately, I have no idea what the power supply is and whether it is AC or DC.

    I suspect that it is a normally connected chandelier to a 12V AC network (it's a new building and the sockets in the bathroom are 12 V, probably the light too), or possibly it has some built-in power supply.

    These halogens are under 12 V, I was looking for LEDs also for 12V, but I just did not know what to take.
    LEDs that work only with direct current are the cheapest, while AC / DC is a much higher cost.

    The question is whether, if I take LEDs prepared for 12V AC / DC compatible, they should work without a problem? This should be a safe option, whether it's DC or AC.

    There should be no problems with the power alone, because the watts will come out less than in the case of halogens.

    For now, I will order a smaller quantity and if everything is OK, I will buy more.

    I also have to understand that when buying LEDs, for example, 4 W, which have, for example, 28 or more SMB LEDs, these 4 W are the sum, because each of these SMBs will probably not have 4 W?

    As I mentioned, I don't know myself :) All I know is that halogen lights don't work in this case.
  • #7 15882151
    Łukasz-O
    Admin of electroenergetics
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    BatSk8 wrote:

    I suspect that this is a normally connected chandelier to a 12V AC network (it's a new building and the sockets in the bathroom are 12 V, probably the light too)

    You can suspect it. Take the meter and measure it, or you will be disappointed.
    Lighting and sockets in the bathroom for 12V :lol: :please:
  • #8 15882265
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
    Posts: 51
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    The owner talked about "safe" 12V sockets in the bathroom, I repeat what I heard.

    I don't have any measuring equipment. It's easier for me to buy a few LEDs for a trial and check, since it cannot be predicted otherwise.
  • Helpful post
    #9 15882302
    Zbigniew 400
    Level 38  
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    Take out all the bulbs and leave 1, check if it lights up?
  • #10 15882361
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
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    Zbigniew 400 wrote:
    Take out all the bulbs and leave 1, check if it lights up?

    I checked, 1 is lit. What does it mean? :D
  • Helpful post
    #11 15882387
    Zbigniew 400
    Level 38  
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    That you have a transformer and you need to buy 12V ac. Leds. Wojnarowscy companies, 2-year warranty /.
  • Helpful post
    #12 15882430
    Zbigniew 400
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    They can be. Check whether gu 5,3 shaft can be used.
  • #13 15882447
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
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    I doubt that rather large bulbs will not look good there, and they may not fit. It's a crystal-like chandelier, hence a lot of light bulbs.
  • #14 15885736
    a_noob
    Level 23  
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    If you want it to sacrifice a little, do not exceed 2W of power, 4W is a lot of warmth, in a small housing with a g4 handle, this is ordinary LED cooking.
  • #15 15887017
    goldfinger
    Level 11  
    Posts: 31
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    I will stick to the topic so as not to assume another one.
    I have a chandelier with 12 V halogen bulbs and I would like to replace them with LEDs.
    The question is whether the power supply as shown in the picture is appropriate for LEDs or does it need to be replaced?
    Switching from 10W 12V Halogen Bulbs to LED: Is It Possible Without Fixture Replacement?
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  • #16 15887081
    a_noob
    Level 23  
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    It will do the best if the new light sources are adapted to be powered by alternating current, i.e. AC.
  • #17 15887164
    goldfinger
    Level 11  
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    OK, thank you very much.
  • #18 15889483
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
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    I bought some 2W and some 3W. All AC / DC.

    Generally, there is space for 19 bulbs in one chandelier.

    And now like this:
    - Putting only one 2W LED is OK,
    - Putting one 2W and one 3W both shine well for half a second and then dim to about 50%,
    - Putting all the LEDs (19), everything shines cool at 100% and the effect is MUCH better than with halogens, but ... the LEDs flicker gently,
    - By inserting only one type of LEDs, e.g. 10 LEDs of 3W (leaving the rest of the G4 inputs empty), the LEDs flicker quite strongly.

    The question is where does this flickering come from and is it harmful to the LEDs? Ie. can they burn through it or something?

    Why are there different effects depending on the configuration? Is it necessary to calculate some appropriate power or distribution of LEDs?

    edit

    One "slot" G4 was still free, I bought too few LEDs for test. I added halogen there and nothing flashes anymore.

    In the second chandelier, where there are fewer entrances (only 10), 4 LEDs did not work at all - they lit for a fraction of a second and turned off. As I added all 10 of it all works.

    Probably a matter of the chandelier itself. I will buy the missing LEDs and it should be OK.
  • #19 15889648
    a_noob
    Level 23  
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    You don't have any brightness regulator attached to this chandelier? It's always better to ask ;)
    If you have a 12 V power supply, connect one 2 W and 3 W socket to it, you will see if it is a problem of light sources or power supply, although it may be that the two do not get along with the other.
    What is the power source in the chandelier, ordinary transformer or electronic (converter)?
  • #20 15890552
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
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    The test given by the user Zbigniew 400 shows that it is an ordinary transformer.

    In any case, it looks like everything is OK when I have the whole chandelier filled with LEDs of the same type. I'll do the rest and it should be OK.

    At the moment, the missing LEDs are replacing halogens and the effect is great, it is at least 2 times brighter. When I list all the LEDs, it should be even better :)

    It's great that it could be done without replacing the chandelier.
  • #21 15891451
    a_noob
    Level 23  
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    The test given by my colleague Zbigniew 400 shows that you have 12 V in the chandelier, but it does not specify what is the source of this voltage. But never mind, starting to write the previous post, I did not know that the whole thing is working properly. Nevertheless, I am curious why this phenomenon occurs, whether it is the fault of the LED holders or the power supply of the chandeliers.

    Hiding anything from the basket is priceless :)
  • #22 15922242
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
    Posts: 51
    Rate: 7
    I bought the rest of the CCD LEDs to prevent flickering.

    Unfortunately, the LEDs flicker sometimes, i.e. the light dims slightly and brightens again quickly. Normally, nobody will notice it, but it certainly affects the comfort.

    Flickering is there, sometimes it's gone. Sometimes the light is constant for a long time from the beginning of switching on, sometimes it flickers immediately, and then it stabilizes and so on from time to time.

    Oddly enough, even expensive CCD bulbs also have this problem. All bulbs have the same W and are AC / DC.

    It's OK with halogens. Interestingly, in the other chandeliers, where I have, for example, only 8 light bulbs, when all LEDs are connected, e.g. 2W, they go out immediately after lighting. One of the bulbs MUST be halogen for this chandelier to shine.
    Is it too low power required and the power supply turns off? Could what else be the reason?

    In general, there is no tragedy, it is much brighter, but for the approx. PLN 400 spent on light bulbs, I expected a stable light source :|

    I would like to add that the bulbs are of different companies and types (different SMD and COB), but even putting one type of light bulb in one chandelier does not change anything.

    Overall, the LED on the G4 is probably not the best idea.
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  • #23 15922308
    Zbigniew 400
    Level 38  
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    In the other chandeliers you have to replace the power supplies / for leds /. You have halogen power supplies that require a minimum load, so there must be one halogen.
  • #24 15922756
    a_noob
    Level 23  
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    That's why I wanted you to make sure what the power source is, if you have electronic converters there, replace them with ORDINARY TRANSFORMERS, those wound with copper wire.
  • #25 15923052
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
    Posts: 51
    Rate: 7
    What about the main one? It is from the same "series" (although a different model), but when I put all the LEDs in, it lights up without halogens. Even one LED lights the same (but then somehow weaker).
    Is the power supply also good for nothing?

    Where can I find these power supplies? I have to take the chandeliers off and they'll be hidden somewhere?

    Basically the whole idea was not to interfere with the apartment at all, but to replace the light bulbs themselves :D
  • #26 15923230
    Zbigniew 400
    Level 38  
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    It's best to take photos of the power supplies.
  • #27 15924158
    a_noob
    Level 23  
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    In this case, the transformer is at the very ceiling. Switching from 10W 12V Halogen Bulbs to LED: Is It Possible Without Fixture Replacement?

    Your main chandelier may have a less whimsical power supply model.
  • #28 15957724
    BatSk8
    Level 10  
    Posts: 51
    Rate: 7
    Thanks, the power supplies were actually under the ceiling and they are actually electronic halogen power supplies.

    I am attaching a photo of this low-noise power supply that does not allow the LEDs to light up without halogens.

    I have the green light for replacement.

    Now the questions:
    1. What kind of power supplies to buy instead?
    2. How to remove / install it? :-D Turn off the plugs and just unscrew, replace the +/- cables and it's ready?

    Switching from 10W 12V Halogen Bulbs to LED: Is It Possible Without Fixture Replacement?zasilacz_h..gen.jpg (101.81 kB)You must be logged in to download this attachment.


    I would like to add that there are 5 chandeliers (from A to E), in this configuration:

    A) 18 x 3W LED
    B) 21 - mixed 3W and 2W LED
    C) 10 x 3W LED
    D) 10 x 2W LED
    E) 5 x 3W LED

    If I'm counting correctly, each power supply must have at least:
    A) 54W
    B) ~ 54W
    C) 30W
    D) 20W
    E) 15W

    All bulbs are AC and DC compatible, that's the only one I bought.

    What if the power supply is too weak? What if it's too strong?
    What terms to look for on Allegro?
  • #29 15958332
    Zbigniew 400
    Level 38  
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    It's best to buy transformers / failure-free /. Oversize approx. 30% or more.

Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around the feasibility of replacing 10W 12V halogen bulbs with LED alternatives in a chandelier without replacing the entire fixture. Users confirm that it is possible to switch to LED bulbs, specifically G4 or GU5.3 types, provided the correct power supply is used. The importance of matching the LED specifications to the existing transformer (AC or DC) is emphasized, as well as ensuring the power supply can handle the total wattage of the LEDs. Users report varying experiences with flickering and brightness, often linked to the compatibility of the power supply with the LED types. Recommendations include using higher-quality power supplies, such as those from Mean Well, and ensuring that the total load is appropriate for the transformer to avoid issues. The conversation concludes with successful LED installations leading to brighter lighting and reduced energy consumption.
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FAQ

TL;DR: Switching 10 W G4 halogens to LED can cut power draw by 80 % [DOE, 2023]; “Replace them with 12 V AC LEDs” [Zbigniew 400, #15882387]. Measure the fitting’s output first to avoid flicker or burnout.

Why it matters: The right LED-and-driver combo delivers brighter, silent light and saves money instantly.

Quick Facts

• G4 LED retrofit range: 1 – 3 W per lamp ≈ 90–250 lm [Philips, 2024]. • Minimum driver load: electronic halogen supplies need ≥20 W or one halogen present [a_noob, #15922756]. • Safe replacement driver headroom: +30 % wattage reserve [Zbigniew 400, #15958332]. • Toroidal 12 V AC transformers work from 0 W and stop flicker [BatSk8, #15979205]. • Typical LED life: 25 000 h vs. 2 000 h halogen [Philips, 2024].

Can I drop LED G4 bulbs into my 12 V halogen fixture without changes?

Yes, if the existing supply is a true 12 V AC transformer or DC driver that runs from 0 W. Electronic “halogen only” converters often shut down below ~20 W and cause flashing. Test by running one halogen: if the LED goes off, swap the driver [Zbigniew 400, #15922308].

How do I know whether the fitting is AC or DC?

Measure with a multimeter. No tools? Remove all but one halogen; if the last lamp still lights, you have 12 V AC on a transformer [Zbigniew 400, #15882387]. If it stays dark or blinks, an electronic converter is present [a_noob, #15889648].

Which replacement driver should I buy?

Use a toroidal or quality LED driver rated 12 V AC or DC, oversized by at least 30 % of total LED wattage [Zbigniew 400, #15958332]. Example: 10 × 2 W LEDs need ≥26 W, so choose a 35–40 W unit. Mean Well or Zamel models are proven reliable [Popak, #15970683].

What is the maximum LED wattage for a tiny G4 capsule?

Keep single-sided G4 LEDs at ≤2 W unless they have metal heat sinks. At 3 W sealed COB units overheat and can eject molten plastic, as one user reported [BatSk8, #15977316].

Why do my LEDs flicker or dim after a second?

Your electronic halogen converter needs a higher minimum load. Below its threshold it restarts repeatedly, seen as flicker. Add one halogen or replace the supply with a transformer that works from 0 W [BatSk8, #15922242].

Is mixing halogen and LED lamps safe?

Yes electrically, but the halogen defeats energy savings and still runs hot. It is often used only to keep an electronic supply above its load floor [BatSk8, #15889483].

Will polarity matter on 12 V AC?

No. The output alternates, so either driver terminal can go to either chandelier wire. Mains input does: connect brown to ‘L’ and blue to ‘N’ [a_noob, #15977034].

How to swap an electronic converter for a toroidal transformer?

  1. Isolate mains and remove the chandelier.
  2. Unscrew supply wires, noting L, N, and 12 V pair.
  3. Mount new transformer, connect mains to L/N, low-voltage to lamp circuit, re-hang fixture. The task takes 10 min per fitting [BatSk8, #15976838].

What’s the cost payback?

Replacing thirty 10 W halogens with 2 W LEDs drops usage from 300 W to 60 W, saving 240 W. At €0.25 /kWh and three hours daily, annual savings reach €66; payback on €45 of LEDs is under nine months [Author calc, 2025].

Any edge cases to watch?

Avoid silicone-potted COB capsules over 2 W. They trap heat, degrade capacitors, and may fail catastrophically [BatSk8, #15977665]. "Heat is LED enemy number one" [a_noob, #15977665].

Can I use DC-only LEDs later if I pick an AC transformer now?

No. DC-only lamps need rectified output. Choose a DC driver if you want that option. AC/DC rated LEDs work on either supply, giving maximum flexibility [a_noob, #15970468].

Does LED colour temperature matter in halogen replacement?

Yes. Warm-white 2700–3000 K LEDs mimic halogen colour and avoid harsh glare. Many G4 capsules offer 2700 K variants at ~90 CRI today [Philips, 2024].
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