Tips You Can Use to Purchase the Perfect Reading Light
When you’re searching for the right reading light, it is helpful to consider both how and where it will be used. First, which types and sizes of book will your light be used with? If it only needs to provide light for standard size mass market paperback books, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will probably be sufficient. If your reading light must evenly light a large dictionary, then you’ll need a light designed for much greater light output distributed over a significantly larger area. Another consideration is whether you like the warmer, slightly yellowish glow of an incandescent light or the whiter, cooler output of modern LEDs.
Another significant consideration is the cost of maintenance. While both incandescent and LED reading lights require about the same amount of power, discharging batteries with about equal speed, incandescent bulbs have a life expectancy of between 15-25 hours of use. LEDs, while they are only slightly higher in price than incandescent designs, usually have life expectancies of between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will cost much less to operate over the long haul if the reading light will be used regularly.
Most modern reading light designs offer the flexibility of running on batteries or A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is convenient when the light will be used somewhere an A/C outlet isn’t handy, but it can be expensive to replace batteries, as most fully charged alkaline batteries last only for approximately 20-30 hours of use. A good option to consider would be a good recharger and set of rechargeable batteries.
Finally, a reading light typically incorporates a clip which securely attaches to your book, book stand or book holder. The clip also makes it possible to attach your reading light to a music stand, podium, desk, piano or organ music rack, etc, which exponentially increases the range of uses for your light. Some designs also offer an optional base or cradle that allows your light to be secured to any ferrous surface, such as a refrigerator or other appliance, a car fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The possible applications are unlimited.
