Torches

About Torches

Professional torches have evolved far beyond simple battery-powered handheld lights. Today's LED torches deliver powerful illumination for demanding work environments, from construction sites and automotive workshops to emergency services and outdoor maintenance. Whether you need a compact pocket torch for everyday tasks, a high-intensity spotlight for illuminating large work areas, or a hands-free head torch for precision work, the right lighting solution can dramatically improve both safety and productivity on the job.

Modern work torches incorporate advanced LED technology that provides brighter, longer-lasting illumination whilst consuming less power than traditional bulb-based designs. Tooled-Up.com stocks a comprehensive range featuring rechargeable USB models, powerful spotlights, versatile head torches, and robust handheld designs from trusted brands including LED Lenser, Lighthouse, Scangrip, Draper, and DeWalt. Many professional-grade torches now offer multiple output modes, ranging from energy-efficient low settings for close-up inspection work to maximum brightness modes delivering 400 lumens or more for flood lighting larger areas.

Professional torches are built to withstand the rigours of trade work, featuring impact-resistant housings, waterproof ratings (often IP54 or higher), and ergonomic designs that can be operated with gloved hands. Rechargeable models with lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly popular, offering the convenience of USB-C charging alongside extended runtimes of up to 12 hours. Specialist designs such as COB LED work lights, magnetic inspection torches, and wave-sensor head torches provide hands-free operation and targeted illumination for specific applications across numerous trades.

Jargon Buster

• Lumens: The measurement of total light output from a torch. Higher lumen ratings indicate brighter illumination, with professional torches typically ranging from 100 to 1000+ lumens depending on application.
• IP Rating: Ingress Protection rating that indicates resistance to dust and water. IP54 means protected from dust and water spray, whilst IP67 offers complete dust protection and temporary water immersion resistance.
• COB LED: Chip-on-Board LED technology that packages multiple LED chips together to create a uniform, high-intensity light source with excellent coverage, ideal for work lights and inspection torches.
• Runtime: The duration a torch will operate on a single charge or set of batteries, typically measured in hours. Professional rechargeable models often provide 4-12 hours depending on brightness settings.
• Beam Distance: The maximum distance at which a torch produces sufficient light for safe navigation, measured in metres. Spotlights typically offer longer beam distances than floodlight-style torches.
• USB-C Charging: Modern charging standard that allows faster charging times and universal compatibility with common charging cables and power banks, often fully charging torches in 60-90 minutes.

Who Uses Torches?

• Electricians: For inspecting consumer units, running cables through ceiling voids, and working in poorly lit locations
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Essential for under-sink work, inspecting pipework, and boiler servicing
• Automotive Mechanics: For engine bay inspection, underneath vehicle work, and diagnostic tasks
• Building and Construction Workers: Site lighting, inspection work, and operating in buildings without mains power
• Maintenance Engineers: Inspecting machinery, plant rooms, and hard-to-reach equipment areas
• Security Personnel: Routine patrols, incident response, and property inspection
• Camping and Outdoor Enthusiasts: Navigation, setting up camp, and emergency lighting
• Property Managers and Surveyors: Inspecting loft spaces, basements, and building defects
• Emergency Services: Rescue operations, incident lighting, and vehicle-based work
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home maintenance, repairs, and project work in garages or sheds

How to Choose the Right Torches

Brightness Requirements: Consider the lumen output needed for your typical tasks. Pocket torches with 100-200 lumens suit close-up inspection work, whilst spotlights with 400+ lumens are necessary for illuminating larger work areas, outdoor spaces, or construction sites. Models with multiple output modes offer versatility for different situations.

Power Source: Rechargeable lithium-ion torches with USB-C charging offer convenience and lower running costs, particularly for daily professional use. Traditional battery-powered models provide instant replacement capability in the field. Some advanced models double as power banks, allowing you to charge mobile devices from the torch battery.

Hands-Free Operation: Head torches and neck lights free both hands for detailed work such as wiring, pipefitting, or engine repairs. Look for models with adjustable beam angles, comfortable headbands, and wave-sensor technology that allows you to switch modes without touching the torch with dirty or gloved hands.

Durability and Protection: Professional torches should offer minimum IP54 rating for dust and water spray resistance. Construction and outdoor applications may require IP67 waterproof rating. Impact-resistant aluminium housings and rubberised grips ensure longevity in demanding environments. Consider models tested to withstand drops from typical working heights.

Size and Portability: Compact pocket torches with belt clips suit tradespeople who need lighting readily accessible throughout the day. Larger spotlights provide maximum illumination but require dedicated carrying. Rechargeable models from Tooled-Up eliminate the need to carry spare batteries, reducing pocket bulk.

Beam Type: Focused spot beams project light over longer distances, ideal for outdoor work and navigation. Wide floodlight beams illuminate larger areas for general work lighting. Some torches offer adjustable focus or multiple LED arrangements to switch between beam types.

Popular Accessories

• Spare Batteries: AA, AAA, and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for non-USB models
• USB Charging Cables: USB-C and micro-USB cables for charging rechargeable torches from vehicle 12v sockets or mains adapters
• Belt Holsters and Clips: Secure carrying solutions for easy access during work
• Diffuser Attachments: Convert focused beams into softer, wider illumination for close-up tasks
• Coloured Filters: Red filters preserve night vision, whilst other colours assist with tracking or inspection tasks
• Magnetic Mounts: Attach torches to steel surfaces for hands-free positioning
• Vehicle Charging Adapters: 12v/24v vehicle chargers for mobile tradespeople
• Protective Cases: Padded storage for larger spotlights and specialist torches
• Headband Replacements: Spare straps for head torches subject to regular use

Safety Information

Battery Safety: Always use the correct battery type and voltage specified by the manufacturer. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries should only be charged with approved chargers to prevent overheating or damage. Never mix old and new batteries, and remove batteries from torches during extended storage to prevent corrosion.

High-Brightness Warnings: Powerful torches exceeding 500 lumens can cause temporary vision impairment if shone directly into eyes. Never point high-output torches at other people or reflective surfaces at close range. Some professional spotlights may become warm during extended use at maximum output – allow cooling periods during continuous operation.

Explosive Atmospheres: Standard torches are not suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres or locations with flammable gases. ATEX-certified intrinsically safe torches must be used in such environments as required by HSE regulations. Consult relevant risk assessments before selecting lighting for hazardous locations.

Water Resistance Limitations: Whilst many professional torches offer IPX4 or IP54 water spray resistance, this does not mean they are suitable for underwater use. IP67-rated torches can withstand temporary immersion but should not be used for diving or sustained underwater operation unless specifically designed for such applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between lumens and watts?
Lumens measure the actual light output visible to the human eye, whilst watts measure electrical power consumption. Modern LED torches are far more efficient than older bulb-based designs, producing significantly more lumens per watt. A 10W LED torch typically produces more useful illumination than a traditional 50W halogen torch whilst consuming less power and generating less heat.

How long do rechargeable torch batteries last?
Quality lithium-ion batteries in professional torches typically provide 300-500 charge cycles before capacity degrades noticeably. With proper care, this translates to several years of regular use. Runtime per charge varies from 4 to 12+ hours depending on brightness settings and battery capacity. USB-C models often feature fast charging, reaching full capacity in 60-90 minutes.

Are head torches better than handheld torches?
Each design suits different applications. Head torches excel when you need both hands free for detailed work such as electrical installations, plumbing, or mechanical repairs. Handheld torches offer more powerful illumination options, easier beam direction control, and can double as spotlights for illuminating distant areas. Many professionals carry both types for different situations.

What IP rating do I need for site work?
For general construction and outdoor trade work, an IP54 rating provides adequate protection against dust ingress and water spray from any direction, suitable for typical UK weather conditions. If working in very wet environments or where temporary submersion is possible, consider IP67-rated torches. Remember that IP ratings don't protect against impact damage – look for drop-tested designs for demanding site work.

Can I charge USB torches from my van's 12v socket?
Yes, USB-rechargeable torches can be charged from vehicle 12v or 24v sockets using a suitable USB adapter (cigarette lighter adapter). This makes them particularly convenient for mobile tradespeople who can recharge during travel between jobs. Some professional torch models also function as power banks, allowing you to charge mobile phones and other USB devices from the torch battery in emergencies.