Buying lighting online should be easy — but it’s also surprisingly easy to get wrong.

From mismatched bulbs to fittings that don’t dim properly, we see the same avoidable issues come up time and time again. So, whether you’re browsing for a ceiling pendant, a garden spike, or a bathroom wall light, here’s how to sidestep the most common mistakes — and get it right first time.

1. Assuming “Dimmable” Means It’ll Work With Your Dimmer

Just because a fitting is marked dimmable doesn’t mean it’ll play nicely with every dimmer switch. Compatibility depends on the type of dimmer, the total wattage, and even the driver inside the fitting.

What to check:

• Is your dimmer designed for LED?
• Is it leading edge, trailing edge, or programmable?
• Are the bulbs or LEDs compatible?

💡 At Leora, we specify the dimming type and recommended control method where possible. And yes — you can always ask us if you're not sure.

2. Buying on Looks Alone

We get it — looks matter. But design without function can be a real headache. Beautiful fittings that are awkward to install, flicker constantly, or don’t fit the space can turn into regret purchases fast.

Avoid by checking:

• The fitting’s dimensions (don’t trust photos alone)
• What bulbs it takes (and whether they’re included)
• How it mounts (flush, semi-flush, recessed, surface?)
• Whether it’s suited to your ceiling height or layout

Design-led lighting should still work beautifully — not just look good in the product photo.

3. Overlooking the IP Rating

This one’s big — especially for bathrooms and outdoor spaces.

A stylish wall light isn’t much good if it fails after one splash or storm. Every fitting for wet or damp areas needs to meet minimum IP (Ingress Protection) ratings.

Quick guide:

• Bathroom Zone 1: IPX4 or above
• Outdoor walls (exposed): IP65 minimum
• Garden spike or ground lights: IP67 or IP68

💡 We clearly list IP ratings for every product — and can help you match them to bathroom zones or external areas.

4. Mismatching Bulbs and Caps

There’s a world of difference between GU10, G9, E27, and integrated LEDs. Buying a beautiful fitting only to realise you don’t have the right bulbs (or dimming drivers) is an easy mistake.

What to check:

• The cap type (we show this clearly)
• Whether bulbs are included
• If dimmable bulbs are needed
• Whether the LED is replaceable or integrated

Hint: E27 and GU10 are usually easy to source — but fittings like G9 or 700mA require more planning.

5. Not Checking the Size Properly

Photos can be deceiving. A wall light that looks perfectly balanced in the product image might overwhelm your hallway — or disappear completely on a big feature wall.

Always check the measurements:

• Height, width, and projection from the wall
• Drop from ceiling (especially above islands, tables or baths)
• Cutout sizes for recessed lights
• Clearance around doors, taps, mirrors, etc.

💡 Our product pages include detailed dimensions — and we’re always happy to confirm spacing for specific rooms.

6. Mixing Colour Temperatures by Accident

Ever seen a room with one light that looks oddly yellow — or icy white compared to the others? That’s what happens when you mix colour temperatures unintentionally.

Basic Kelvin guide:

• 2700K = very warm, soft white
• 3000K = warm white (cosy, modern)
• 4000K = cool white (fresh, crisp)
• 5000K+ = daylight tone (clinical if overused)

If you’re layering light (e.g. downlights, pendants, wall lights), stick to one colour temperature per room unless you’re creating a deliberate contrast.

7. Not Thinking About the Practical Side

Finally, one of the biggest mistakes: not thinking about who’s installing it — and how easy (or annoying) that job will be.

Some fittings are notorious for:

• Poor access to terminals
• No room for cables or connectors
• Fiddly mounting brackets
• Weak fixings or exposed screws

💡 At Leora, we curate fittings that aren’t just beautiful — they’re practical, tested, and installer-friendly. No one wants a ceiling light that takes 3 hours to hang.

Final Thoughts

The right lighting transforms your space — but only if it works properly, suits the room, and is easy to live with.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll save yourself time, money, and hassle — and end up with lighting that actually does what it promises.

Still unsure? Just ask.
Whether it’s dimming, IP ratings, bulb caps, or fitting advice, we’re here to help you choose with confidence.