Welcome to our decision-making guide, where you'll find answers to the questions: Wallwasher or Linear LED? Which product is right for your building? First, it's important to note that both products are excellent. However, if used in the wrong place, you won't achieve the desired ambiance.
General Information About Wallwashers
- As the name suggests, a wallwasher washes walls. Essentially, it uses light to paint walls.
- You can use it on the exterior or interior.
- You should place it at the very bottom of the wall. This will create an angle so that the light shines upwards. Alternatively, you can position it at the top so that the light shines downwards.
- If you place wide-angle models directly opposite the wall at a slight distance, you will achieve homogeneous lighting.
- Wallwasher products consist of LED lenses inside an aluminum housing.
- If it has its own power supply, it operates on 220V AC. This model generally contains LEDs that are driven by a constant current.
- Slim Wallwasher models operate using 24V DC power that you supply to the panel. They contain constant voltage LEDs.
- Thanks to the functional mounting brackets, you can adjust the light angle even when placed against the wall.
- With the right lens selection, you can focus the light according to your needs. Thus, the maximum height the light will travel changes with the use of different lens types. However, the light level decreases as it travels.
- There are various types of models, such as fixed on/off modes or DMX animations.
- We recommend using it on smooth surfaces. Otherwise, it will reveal plaster imperfections.
General Information About Linear LEDs (LEDLine)
- Linear LEDs provide a linear light line. They create a continuous lighting effect.
- You can use it for exterior lighting or for interior use.
- You can position them horizontally, vertically, or even diagonally on the facade. They are very popular in decorative facade lighting. You can also mount them on the ceiling for general lighting purposes. In some cases, you can use them with the light pointing upwards or downwards for a subtle filtering effect.
- LEDLine consists of aluminum PCB strip LEDs inside an aluminum housing.
- These products generally operate using 24V DC power that you connect to the circuit board.
- There is a space at the back that functions as a cable duct. You can hide both cables and mounting hardware here.
- The diffuser cover provides homogeneous light. Opaque or aluminum side covers are also available. Opaque side covers allow light to pass through, and when mounted close together, you achieve continuous light.
- There are various types of models, such as fixed on/off modes or DMX animations.
- It is suitable for almost any surface, as long as you firmly attach the aluminum feet to the surface.
Wallwasher vs. Linear LED? Comparison Table (Conclusion)
You can find the key differences that will help you make the right decision for your project in the table below:
| Feature | Wallwasher (Wall Painting with Light) | Linear LED (LEDLine Linear Light) |
|---|---|---|
| Light Effect | It paints large surfaces using light. | It forms a continuous and thin linear line. |
| Light Distance | Thanks to its lenses, it can project light to very high altitudes (10-15m+). | It is shorter in length, decorative, and intended for emphasis. |
| Assembly Method | Positioned at an angle to the ground, the top edge, the wall, or at a distance directly opposite the facade. | It can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or diagonally on the facade. It doesn't matter. |
| Operating Voltage | 220V AC (Built-in Drive) or 24V DC options are available. | It usually operates with 24V DC (central switch). |
| Cable Concealment | External junction boxes or ducts may be required. | Cables and accessories can be concealed in the channel within its housing. |
| Lens/Optics | Special focusing lenses (10°, 25°, 45°, etc.) are used. | It usually has a diffuser cap and provides homogeneous distribution. |
Of course, you shouldn't forget that choosing the right light color is just as important as the effect of these products. You can add a dynamic atmosphere to the structure with DMX RGB LED animations. Or, if you want your facade to be simpler but very elegant, you can illuminate it with static lights. For information about static light colors, see [link to relevant documentation]. Exterior Lighting Color Selection: Light Color and Kelvin Guide for On/Off Systems You can check out our article titled [article title].
In summary, if your goal is to magnificently illuminate the facade of your building upwards, you can use Wallwashers. However, if your aim is to highlight architectural lines such as window edges, floor levels, parapets, and roof edges with modern and subtle lines, you should opt for Linear LEDs. If you are still undecided, you can share photos of your project with us and receive free technical support.
