Frequently asked questions
HOW DO I UNLOCK MY BULB HOLDER?
Many of our bulb holders have an interior locking mechanism to ensure that they are not inadvertently opened when changing a bulb etc.This mechanism tends to be a small metal or plastic tab on the inside of the bulb holder located to one side of the connection terminal which will make contact to the inside of the twistable section of the holder itself preventing it from turning.
ALWAYS MAKE SURE THE POWER IS ISOLATED BEFORE INSTALLING, CHANGING A BULB OR UNDERTAKING ANY MAINTENANCE WORK ON ANY ELECTRICAL ITEMS.
This tab should temporarily be pushed or bent towards the inside of the bulb holder to allow the unit to be unscrewed and can gentle be pushed back into place once the work is complete however this is not always necessary.
We recommend that any fitting or installation is done by a qualified electrician, do not risk installation yourself if you are at all unsure.
HOW DO I WIRE A MULTI-WAY CEILING ROSE?
When installing one of our multi-way ceiling roses the electrical supply can be split in to multiple connections using a standard connectivity terminal strip, also known as a choc block!
We recommend that any fitting or installation is done by a qualified electrician, do not risk installation yourself if you are at all unsure.
DO YOUR LIGHTS WORK IN THE USA/ARE THEY UL RATED?
Many of our lights, lamps, bulb holders, cable and shades are compatible with USA voltage supply and wiring but please contact us by emailing info@dykeanddean.com if you have a specific product that you would like more information about.
However, due to the nature of the technology, our LED bulbs are not currently compatible with the standard US voltage supply ( 120v ). We are however working to include USA compatible UL cert bulbs into our family of Dyke & Dean LED bulbs soon so watch this space!
ARE YOUR SWITCHES EARTHED?
Many of our inline cord and foot switches are earthed however sometimes this is not the case if it is not required ( ie if the switch casing and button is made from a non conductive material such as plastic or bakelite ).All of our products are compliant with UK and EU safety standards, for more details please speak to one of our team by emailing
IF I ORDER MULTIPLE METERS OF CABLE WILL IT ARRIVE IN ONE LENGTH?
We will always aim to ship your cable in one single, continuous length unless you have asked us not to for any reason. Please include this information in the notes section of your order.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF SWITCHING TO LED BULBS?
LED technology is a great deal more energy efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly than filament incandescent and halogen bulbs.Dyke & Dean are proud to offer our very own range of LED bulb options, which are both functional, aesthetically pleasing and suitable for a huge range of lamps and interiors.Overtime, reductions to energy costs can be significant and because of the long life expectancy of LED bulbs they will last you up to 5 times longer than other light bulbs, both of which go toward making LED a happier, greener lighting solution.
CAN I SET UP A TRADE ACCOUNT?
Dyke & Dean are proud to work with some of the industries best architects, interior designers and electrical contractors and we offer competitive trade pricing and discounts.
To enquire about setting up a trade or electrical wholesale account, please email trade@dykeanddean.com with your details of any order you wish to place and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
All trade discounts are dependant on specific products and quantities.
Trade account info :Our trade terms are that your opening order must exceed £500 in order to receive a discount.You can also build up to that amount, once a total of £500 has been spent on the account you will then qualify for trade discounts.Your further orders would not require a minimum spend amount, the discount given would depend on the order total.
Orders under £500 - 10%
Orders under £1000 - 15%
Orders over £1000 - 20%
Products exempt from discounts AUDIO items and KATY PATY switches (Unless order is over £6000.00).
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY ORDER?
We aim to dispatch all in stock UK orders within 1 - 2 days via 48H courier service via either Royal Mail or Parcelforce.Our dispatch days are Monday through to Friday, and our daily cutoff is 2pm ( 12am Friday ) although couriers may collect before this time. Orders placed after 2pm will be dispatched next day.
Please keep in mind that we do not dispatch orders on weekends or bank holidays.You will receive an email from our warehouse once your order has been dispatched.
Please check product descriptions for lead times which we try to keep as updated as possible.All stated lead times are for UK mainland delivery only, please take into account additional transit time if you are overseas.Lead times are subject to change at any time due to manufacturers, especially during busy periods, as is the nature of bespoke made to order products. These are out of our control but we will do our best to update you.
For products with lead times, we advise that you do not book your plumber / electrician before receiving an estimated delivery date.
MY LIGHTS/PRODUCT ARE NOT SUPPLIED WITH FIXINGS/SCREWS?
Some of our lights and products are not supplied with fixture screws or fittings, as the screws needed will depend on the surface you are mounting the product to; brick, wood, plasterboard, tiles etc.
You should be able to find suitable screws at your local hardware store or online.
HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE?
Always check shade, bulb size and fixture compatibility in the product description. For example : E27 shades, are not compatible with E14 bulbs. For tables, stools and chairs, please always check the product description and size drop down options for dimensions. You should always measure your space prior to ordering. For more information on specific products please send product name and link to info@dykeanddean.com.
LIGHT BULB GUIDE
Understanding Light Bulb Base Sizes
The base of a light bulb is a critical factor in ensuring compatibility with your lighting fixture. Common base sizes include:
- E26/E27: These are the standard sizes for most household bulbs in North America (E26) and Europe (E27). They are typically used in ceiling fixtures, lamps, and pendant lights.
- B22: The bayonet mount is prevalent in the UK and other countries, featuring two mounting pins and a push-and-twist action for installation.
- GU10: Known for its twist-lock base, this type is often found in recessed downlighting or spotlights.
- MR16/GU5.3: These bases are common in low voltage lighting, typically used in track lighting or landscape fixtures.
Light Bulb Shapes and Their Applications
Light bulbs come in various shapes, each designed for specific uses and fixtures:
- A-Series (A19/A60): The most common household bulb shape, ideal for general lighting.
- Candle (B/C): These are often used in chandeliers and decorative fixtures for their elegant shape.
- Globe (G): Globe bulbs are used in bathroom vanities and pendant lights for their spherical shape that provides a wide spread of light.
- Reflector (R): Designed to direct light, reflector bulbs are used in recessed cans and track lighting.
- Tube: Fluorescent tube lights are used in kitchens, garages, and commercial spaces for their efficiency in large areas.
Light Bulb Types: LED, CFL, Halogen, and Incandescent
- LED (Light Emitting Diode): LEDs are highly energy-efficient, have a long lifespan, and come in a range of colors and dimming capabilities. They are suitable for almost all lighting needs.
- CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamp): CFLs use less energy than incandescent bulbs and last longer. They take a moment to warm up to full brightness.
- Halogen: Offering a crisp, white light, halogens are more energy-efficient than incandescents but less so than LEDs and CFLs. They're often used in spotlights and dimmable fixtures.
- Incandescent: These bulbs provide warm light but are the least energy-efficient, having been phased out in many regions due to energy regulations.
Lumens vs. Watts: Understanding Brightness and Energy Use
Traditionally, bulb brightness was measured in watts, which actually indicates energy use. Today, lumens are the correct measurement for brightness:
- Lumens (lm): This measures the amount of light a bulb emits. The higher the lumens, the brighter the bulb.
- Watts (W): This measures how much energy a bulb uses. With energy-efficient bulbs like LEDs and CFLs, you get higher lumens with fewer watts.
Color Temperature: Setting the Mood with Light
Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K) and affects the mood and functionality of a space:
- Warm White (2700K - 3000K): Creates a cozy, warm atmosphere, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Cool White (3500K - 4100K): A more neutral, inviting light, suitable for kitchens and workspaces.
- Daylight (5000K - 6500K): Mimics natural daylight, excellent for reading and task lighting where concentration is crucial.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 2 CORE AND 3 CORE CABLE?
2 core cable does not include an earthing wire and can be used with any electrical item with an outer surface which is predominately made from a non conductive material such as glass, plastic, ceramic or bakelite.3 core cable can be used for these types of fittings also, however a 3 core cable MUST be used with any light, lamp, bulb holder or fitting with a conductive or metal exterior surface to ensure against risk of electrocution or serious injury.We recommend that any fitting or installation is done by a qualified electrician, do not risk installation yourself if you are at all unsure.
WHAT DO I DO WITH THE EARTH WIRE IF MY LIGHT FITTING IS NOT EARTHED?
If any of our lamps, lights or bulb holders do not have an earth connection it will be because the outer surface is predominately made from a non conductive material such as glass, plastic, ceramic or bakelite etc, therefor it is not necessary to earth the unit.If you are using an earthed three core cable with a unit which does not need to be earthed then the earth cable can simply be trimmed back and safely secured using electrical insulation tape.
Any light, lamp, bulb holder or fitting with a conductive or metal exterior surface must always be earthed to ensure against risk of electrocution or serious injury.We recommend that any fitting or installation is done by a qualified electrician, do not risk installation yourself if you are at all unsure.
ARE YOUR LED BULBS DIMMABLE, IF SO WHAT DIMMER DO YOU RECOMMEND?
Our range of Dyke & Dean LED bulbs are all 100% dimmable when used with a compatible dimmer unit.We do tend to find that our bulbs are compatible with most modern LED dimmer units ( manufactured within the last 10 years ), however we recommend the use of an IC constant current trailing edge LED dimmer module.We would always advise that you consult your electrician if you are unsure.
HOW LONG WILL MY BULB LAST?
Dyke & Dean are proud to offer our very own range of LED bulb options, which are both functional, aesthetically pleasing and suitable for a huge range of lamps and interiors.Each individual bulb will carry its own life expectancy guide in our product description. Many of our LED bulbs are guaranteed for around 20,000hrs use however this may be affected by environmental factors such as contact with moisture, incorrect installation and the frequency which the bulbs is turned off and on over time.Incandescent filament bulbs will have a significantly lower life expectancy compared to LED but again the individual life of any bulb will be found in our product description.
YOUR LED BULBS HAVE A LOW WATTAGE, DOES THAT MEAN THEY ARE NOT VERY BRIGHT?
Dyke & Dean are proud to offer our very own range of LED bulb options, which are both functional, aesthetically pleasing and suitable for a huge range of lamps and interiors.LED technology is now at a stage where we can offer the same amount of lighting efficiency ( or lumens ) using only a fraction of the energy making our LED bulbs a less costly, environmentally friendly lighting solution whilst still maintaining the elegance and aesthetic effectiveness of classic lighting design. LED bulbs also have the added benefit of a huge life expectancy so you will be buying less bulbs over time.Each of our LED bulbs has the specific Lumen rating stated in the product description however please feel free to contact our team for advise and recommendations.
DO YOU LOAN YOUR PRODUCTS FOR PHOTOSHOOTS?
We are always happy to review a request of a product loan for commercial photoshoots, advertising and television productions.We loan our products under the agreement that any loss, damage or misuse of the products loaned will be the financial responsibility of the persons or organisation that the products are loaned to as laid out in our terms and conditions…..
WHAT DOES IP RATING MEAN? WHAT IP RATING SHOULD I USE FOR MY BATHROOM / OUTDOOR LIGHTS?
An IP rating is used to define levels of resistance or sealing effectiveness against moisture, dust and dirt.There are many factors to take into account when considering what level of IP rated light an area will require which is why we always advise our customers to consult a qualified electrician if they are unsure. It is sometimes the case that a specific area, or zone in a bathroom does not require an IP rated light if it is not in the direct vicinity of a source of moisture, however any outdoor lighting not protected by cover would require a high IP rating to ensure its safe installation and effectiveness against prolonged exposure to the elements.
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE IN THE SPEC OF TWISTED AND ROUND FABRIC CABLE
All of our twisted and round fabric cable is supplied as a single length of industry standard three core ( twin and earth ) cable except in the rare instance when cable may only be two core but we will make you aware of this in the product description.
The gauge or diameter of our cable does sometimes fluctuate slightly, if you do have a specific sizing requirement then please get in touch with one of our team to check the specific cable for you.
RESTOCK
Product restocks are subject to supplier availability. If there is an item you are waiting to be re-stocked, select the “NOTIFY ME WHEN AVAILABLE” button to be notified by email. All bespoke products are made to order, please check description for lead times.
WHAT ARE YOUR UK & INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING TIMES?
We aim to dispatch in-stock UK orders within 1–2 working days. Standard parcel orders are normally sent using a tracked 48-hour service with Royal Mail or Parcelforce.
We dispatch Monday to Friday and do not dispatch on weekends or bank holidays. You will receive a dispatch confirmation when your order leaves our warehouse.
Products made to order or showing a lead time will be dispatched when available. Lead times are estimates and can change because of manufacturer or production delays. We will update you if we become aware of a significant delay.
We recommend waiting until your goods have arrived and been checked before booking an electrician, plumber or other installer.
International delivery takes longer than UK delivery. Where duties or local taxes have not been collected at checkout, these may be payable when the shipment enters the destination country.
Delivery services
Available services depend on the products in your basket and your delivery destination. The checkout displays the current available services and prices. Eligible UK mainland orders over £99 qualify for free standard delivery; furniture, heavy and specialist-delivery items are excluded.