In recent years halogen lighting has gone out of vogue almost as precipitously as the Macarena. The primary reason for this is a number of overblown safety concerns specific to halogen lamps. Part of what makes halogen light so clean and bright – the proximity of the quartz envelope to the tungsten filament – is also what makes the bulb hot enough to start fires – if someone is negligent enough to let that happen. In actuality halogen lights are less dangerous than incandescent holiday lights, if we consider that the latter was responsible for nearly 3 times as many household fires last year. Bad press has made halogen an undervalued lighting option that any buyer of home or commercial lighting should consider for a variety of applications.

One of the best attributes of halogen is the purity and intensity of its white light. Its intensity outshines (so to speak) the intensity of fluorescent lighting without any of the flickering. And it bright whiteness makes it preferable to incandescent lighting for reading or working at a computer. Incorporating halogen lighting into the home or office is also much easier than incorporating almost any other kind of lighting because the bulbs are so much smaller. Because of their small size and high efficiency and longevity, halogen lights are ideal for accent lighting, desk lighting, and overhead lighting in places where there is enough clearance to provide for circulation of hot air below the lights.

There are a number of options that are preferable to the adjustable halogen torch lamps that many college dorms rightfully banned (students are negligent) that incorporate small, relatively cool mr16 bulbs that throw off a lot of intense, bright white light.

First, overhead desk lamps that either hang from the ceiling or mount to a hutch can be adjusted to provide spotlight coverage on a desk. The bright light is not only cheerier than incandescent yellow, but is also useful for reading and typing.

Second, as a recessed or track light the mr16 bubs offer more intense spotlight focus with a much smaller fixture. This is conducive to sleeker, more modern design schemes and is a favorite in kitchens, over islands or under cabinets, where intense light is ideal for inspecting, chopping, and presenting food.

Third, for accent lighting, halogen is unrivaled. One should take care that the object or area being accented isn’t sensitive to heat; that notwithstanding, the bright light will cheerfully call attention from around the room.

Finally, colored halogen lights have a place in lively parties. Assorted colors make them ideal for festive gatherings.

Halogen lights burn hot, but the quality of light they provide make them a real value for anyone who remember to keep drapes away from a candle. These applications should provide inspiration for ways that halogen can light up homes and offices without using torch lamps.