Task Lights

About Task Lights

Task lights are portable, focused lighting solutions designed to illuminate specific work areas where standard lighting is insufficient or unavailable. These versatile tools have become essential equipment for tradespeople working on building sites, in workshops, or in confined spaces where adequate lighting is critical for both safety and precision. Modern task lights utilise LED technology to deliver powerful, energy-efficient illumination in compact, durable housings that can withstand the rigours of professional use.

The range available at Tooled-Up.com includes rechargeable LED worklights, folding site lights, and slimline work lights from trusted brands including Defender, Draper, Sealey, Faithfull, and DeWalt. These lights typically feature robust aluminium and ABS construction with impact-resistant designs that can survive drops and knocks common on busy work sites. Many models offer folding stands for easy positioning, while others incorporate mounting points for tripod attachment, providing maximum flexibility for directing light exactly where it's needed.

Task lights are available in various power configurations, including corded 240v models for continuous operation on sites with mains power, rechargeable battery-powered units for maximum portability, and USB rechargeable options that double as powerbanks. Output ranges from compact 10W units ideal for close work to powerful 50W floodlights capable of illuminating large areas, with most delivering cool white light around 4000K for optimal colour rendering and reduced eye strain during extended use.

Jargon Buster

• SMD LED (Surface-Mounted Device LED): A type of LED technology where chips are mounted directly onto the circuit board, producing brighter, more efficient light output whilst maintaining a slim profile and better heat dissipation compared to traditional LEDs.
• COB LED (Chip-on-Board LED): Multiple LED chips bonded directly to a substrate to form a single module, creating an extremely bright, uniform light source with minimal shadowing, particularly suited to close-range task lighting.
• Lumen Output: The measurement of total visible light emitted by a source. Higher lumen ratings indicate brighter lights, with task lights typically ranging from 1,000 to 5,000+ lumens depending on wattage and intended application.
• Colour Temperature (K): Measured in Kelvin, this indicates the appearance of light, with most task lights offering 4000K to 6000K (cool white to daylight), which provides crisp, clear illumination ideal for detail work.
• IP Rating: Ingress Protection rating indicating resistance to dust and water. For example, IP54 offers protection against dust and water splashes, whilst IP65 provides full dust protection and resistance to water jets.
• Drop-Tested: Indicates the height from which a light has been tested to survive impacts without damage, typically 1m to 3m for professional-grade task lights, ensuring durability on demanding work sites.

Who Uses Task Lights?

• Electricians: For illuminating fuse boxes, ceiling voids, and testing areas when working in properties with power isolated
• Plumbers: Essential for inspecting pipework under sinks, in lofts, and other poorly-lit areas during installation and maintenance
• Builders and General Contractors: For site work during winter months, internal construction before electrical first-fix, and extension work
• Mechanics and Vehicle Technicians: Illuminating engine bays, underbody areas, and workshop tasks requiring focused lighting
• Decorators and Plasterers: For inspecting surface preparation, identifying imperfections, and working during darker hours
• Carpenters and Joiners: Precision cutting, marking, and assembly work requiring clear visibility of measurement and grain detail
• Maintenance Engineers: For inspection and repair work in plant rooms, service areas, and industrial environments with inadequate permanent lighting
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects, garage work, and automotive maintenance where additional lighting improves safety and results
• Emergency Services: Breakdown recovery, roadside repairs, and emergency maintenance requiring portable illumination

How to Choose the Right Task Lights

Power Source: Consider your typical working environment. Corded 240v models from Tooled-Up.com provide unlimited runtime where mains power is available, whilst rechargeable battery-powered units offer maximum portability for sites without electricity or when working at height. USB rechargeable models provide versatility for those wanting charging compatibility with existing powerbanks and vehicle USB ports.

Light Output: Match wattage and lumen output to your application. Compact 10W to 20W lights suit close-range tasks like inspection work and confined spaces, whilst 30W to 50W models illuminate larger areas for general site work, painting, or working on vehicles. Consider whether you need focused spot lighting or wider flood illumination.

Portability and Design: Folding designs pack flat for easy transportation and storage in toolboxes or vehicle storage, whilst slimline profiles fit into tight spaces. Check weight if you'll be carrying lights up ladders or scaffolding regularly. Models with integrated stands offer convenient positioning, whilst tripod-compatible options provide adjustable height for larger work areas.

Durability and Build Quality: Look for impact-resistant housings with aluminium or reinforced ABS construction, particularly if working on busy sites where knocks are inevitable. Check drop-test ratings and IP ratings if you'll be working outdoors or in damp conditions. Rubber-protected cables and reinforced connection points extend working life.

Runtime and Charging: For battery-powered models, consider runtime per charge against your typical work patterns. Some lights offer multiple brightness settings to extend runtime when maximum output isn't required. Fast-charging capabilities minimise downtime, whilst dual battery systems allow continuous use by swapping depleted cells.

Additional Features: Magnetic bases, hanging hooks, and swivel heads increase positioning options. Colour rendering index (CRI) becomes important for decorators and finishers needing accurate colour assessment. Some models include emergency features like flashing modes for roadside use or powerbank functionality for charging mobile devices.

Popular Accessories

• Telescopic Tripods: Adjustable-height stands for positioning task lights at optimal working height, particularly valuable for decorating and general construction work
• Replacement Batteries: Spare battery packs for cordless models to ensure continuous operation throughout the working day
• Extension Leads and Cable Reels: For use with 240v task lights when working at distance from power sources or across large sites
• Carrying Cases and Storage Bags: Protective storage solutions preventing damage during transportation and keeping lights clean when not in use
• 13A Adaptors and Splitters: Allowing multiple lights to run from single power outlets on busy work sites
• Spare Bulbs and LED Modules: For serviceable models, though modern LED units typically outlast the product lifespan
• Mounting Brackets and Clamps: For semi-permanent positioning in workshops or regular work locations
• RCD Adaptors: Essential safety devices for 240v equipment used on construction sites and outdoor locations

Safety Information

Electrical Safety: Always inspect cables and plugs before use, particularly on 240v models. Use RCD protection when operating task lights outdoors or on construction sites as recommended by HSE guidelines. Never operate mains-powered lights with damaged cables or in wet conditions unless rated with appropriate IP protection. Ensure cordless models are charged using the correct manufacturer-supplied charger to prevent battery damage or fire risk.

Heat Management: LED task lights generate less heat than halogen equivalents, but high-output models still become warm during extended use. Ensure adequate ventilation around lights and avoid covering units or placing combustible materials nearby. Allow lights to cool before packing away, particularly after prolonged operation at maximum output.

Positioning and Stability: Always ensure task lights are positioned on stable, level surfaces to prevent toppling. When using tripod-mounted lights, fully extend legs and ensure locking mechanisms are engaged. Be mindful of trailing cables creating trip hazards, particularly on busy sites with multiple operatives. Position lights to avoid glare affecting other workers whilst maintaining adequate illumination of your work area.

Battery Safety: Store rechargeable units with partial charge if not using for extended periods. Avoid exposing battery-powered lights to extreme temperatures. Dispose of failed batteries through appropriate recycling facilities rather than general waste. Never attempt to dismantle or repair battery packs, as lithium-ion cells pose fire and chemical hazards if damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between rechargeable and 240v task lights?
Rechargeable models offer portability and can be used anywhere without requiring mains power, making them ideal for working at height, in properties with isolated electrics, or on sites without power supply. However, they have limited runtime and require recharging. Corded 240v lights provide unlimited operation time and typically higher maximum output, but require access to mains power and have cables that can limit mobility and create trip hazards.

How long do rechargeable task lights run on a single charge?
Runtime varies considerably depending on battery capacity and light output. Typical runtimes range from 2 to 6 hours at maximum brightness, with many models offering longer operation at reduced power settings. Higher wattage lights naturally drain batteries faster, whilst compact inspection lights may run for 8+ hours. Check manufacturer specifications for your intended usage pattern, and consider models with spare battery options if you need full-day operation.

Are LED task lights bright enough to replace halogen work lights?
Modern LED task lights deliver comparable or superior illumination to halogen equivalents whilst consuming significantly less power and generating less heat. A 30W LED task light typically produces similar usable light to a 500W halogen, with the advantage of cooler operation, longer lifespan, and lower running costs. LED technology has advanced considerably, making it the professional standard for task lighting across most applications.

Can task lights be used outdoors in all weather conditions?
This depends on the IP rating of the specific model. Lights rated IP54 offer splash resistance suitable for light rain, whilst IP65-rated units can withstand direct water jets and are appropriate for use in heavy rain. However, even weatherproof lights should be protected from prolonged immersion, and 240v models must always be used with RCD protection outdoors. Check the manufacturer's specifications for environmental suitability before use in adverse conditions.

What brightness do I need for general building site work?
For illuminating a typical work area of 3-4 square metres, a 20W to 30W LED task light providing 2,000 to 3,000 lumens offers adequate coverage for most construction tasks. Larger areas or work requiring fine detail may benefit from 40W to 50W models. Consider positioning multiple lower-wattage lights rather than a single high-output unit to reduce shadows and provide more even illumination across the work area. Browse the selection at Tooled-Up.com to compare outputs and find the most suitable option for your requirements.