Frequently Asked Questions

About The Lighting Warehouse

The Lighting Warehouse is a South African lighting retailer offering a wide range of indoor lighting, outdoor lighting, ceiling fans, LED globes, solar lighting and selected electrical accessories. Customers can shop online or visit any of our 11 retail stores situated in Gauteng.

What types of lighting does The Lighting Warehouse sell?

We stock lighting for residential and commercial spaces, including:

  • Pendant lights and chandeliers

  • Ceiling lights

  • Wall lights

  • Spotlights and track lighting

  • Floor lamps, table lamps and desk lamps

  • Bathroom lighting

  • Downlights and LED panels

  • Outdoor wall lights and lanterns

  • Solar lights and security lighting

  • Bollard, pole, step and ground-spike lights

  • LED and decorative globes

  • Ceiling fans

  • Selected switches, plugs and smart lighting products

Product ranges and availability may change from time to time.

Does The Lighting Warehouse sell lighting online in South Africa?

Yes. Customers throughout South Africa can order lighting through our online store. Delivery is available to metro and outlying areas within South Africa.

Does The Lighting Warehouse ship orders across South African borders?

Yes. we can arrange cross-border shipping. Please email our team at web@lightingwarehouse.co.za with a list of the items you require, and we will provide you with a quotation. Additional freight charges will apply.

Where are The Lighting Warehouse stores located?

The Lighting Warehouse has 11 retail stores located across Johannesburg and Pretoria. Visit our Store Locator page to find your nearest store, view its contact details and check its latest trading hours.

Ordering Online

How do I order lighting online?

Browse the online store, select the required product and quantity, add the items to your cart and proceed through checkout. Before ordering, check the product dimensions, colour, material, globe requirements.

Are the prices displayed on the website VAT inclusive?

Yes. All prices listed on The Lighting Warehouse website are in South African rand (ZAR) and include VAT.

How can I check whether a product is available at a particular store?

Some product pages list the branches where the item is available. Because stock moves throughout the day, we recommend contacting the store before visiting.

Can I change or cancel my order?

Contact us as soon as possible if you need to change or cancel an order. Once an order has been processed, packed and dispatched, it may not be possible to amend it. Delivery or return charges may apply depending on the order status.

Delivery and Collection

How much does delivery cost?

Online orders over R500 qualify for free delivery. Orders below R500 are charged a R99 delivery fee. These terms apply to online orders delivered within South Africa and may be updated from time to time.

How long does delivery take?

Estimated delivery is generally:
• 2 to 5 working days for metro areas
• 3 to 7 working days for outlying areas
Delivery estimates begin once payment has been confirmed and the products are available. Public holidays, promotional periods, remote locations and courier delays may affect delivery times.

Can I collect my online order?

Yes. Selected online orders may be collected from our designated collection point. Wait until you have received confirmation that the order is ready before travelling to collect it.

Can my order be delivered to a different address?

Yes. Enter the correct delivery address during checkout. Once the order has been processed or dispatched, changing the address may cause delays or additional charges.

What happens if nobody is available to receive my order?

A person should be available at the delivery address to receive and check the parcel. If delivery cannot be completed, the courier may arrange another attempt.

What should I do when my order is delivered?

Check the packaging and products as soon as possible. Report damaged, incorrect or missing items promptly and retain the packaging, invoice and photographs of any damage.

Returns, Exchanges and Warranties

Can I return an online purchase?

Yes. Returns must meet the requirements of our Returns Policy. Notify our online returns team within seven days of delivery if a product is damaged, defective or unwanted.

What should I do if my light arrives damaged?

Do not install the product. Photograph the packaging and damaged item, retain all packaging and contact onlinereturns@lightingwarehouse.co.za within seven days of delivery. If the product is confirmed as damaged or defective, The Lighting Warehouse will arrange collection in accordance with the Returns Policy.

Can I return a product if I change my mind?

Eligible unwanted products may be returned if the return is logged within seven days of delivery and the item is unused, uninstalled and returned with its original packaging and components. A R99 collection charge currently applies to “buyer’s remorse” returns.

Can I return an online order to a store?

Yes. Items purchased online can be returned to any of our stores, provided you have proof of payment. Our store team will assist you with the return in accordance with our Returns Policy.

Can I return a light fitting after it has been installed?

Installed, altered or damaged products may not qualify for a “change-of-mind” return. If you believe an installed product is defective, contact the returns team before removing it and provide the invoice, installation details and photographs or video of the fault.

What warranty applies to our light fittings?

The Lighting Warehouse’s indoor and outdoor light fittings carry a two-year limited warranty from the date of purchase, covering qualifying defects in materials or workmanship under normal use.

What warranty applies to our ceiling fans?

Ceiling fans carry a two year limited warranty from the date of purchase, covering qualifying defects in materials or workmanship under normal use.

What is not covered by the warranty?

The warranty does not cover damage caused by the installation by any person who is not a qualified electrician, incorrect installation not in accordance the manual provided by the supplier, misuse, unsuitable operating conditions, improper maintenance, natural wear and tear or unauthorised modification. Warranty claims apply to the original purchaser and proof of purchase is required.

Do I need proof of purchase for a return or warranty claim?

Yes. Keep your invoice, online order confirmation or till slip. Proof of purchase helps confirm the purchase date, product and applicable warranty.

Choosing the Right Lighting

How do I choose the right light fitting for a room?

Consider the room size, ceiling height, purpose of the light, required brightness, style, colour temperature and installation position. Also check the fitting’s dimensions and whether it uses replaceable globes or an integrated LED.

How large should a pendant light be over a dining table?

The correct size depends on the width and length of the table, ceiling height and number of pendants. The fitting should feel proportionate to the table without blocking the view across it. Check the product dimensions before purchasing and ask a qualified electrician to confirm the appropriate hanging height.

How high should pendant lights hang above a kitchen island?

Pendant height depends on the ceiling, fitting and users of the space. As a general design guideline, the bottom of the pendant is often positioned approximately 75 to 90 centimetre above the island surface. Adjust the height so that the fitting does not obstruct sightlines or create glare.

How many pendant lights should I install over a kitchen island?

The number depends on the length of the island and the diameter of each pendant. Two or three evenly spaced pendants are commonly used, while a single large linear fitting may suit longer islands. Allow enough space between the fittings to avoid a crowded appearance.

What lighting is best for a kitchen?

A kitchen normally benefits from layered lighting:

  • General ceiling lighting for overall visibility

  • Task lighting above counters, sinks and work areas

  • Pendant lighting above an island or breakfast counter

  • Accent lighting for cupboards, shelving or architectural features

What lighting is best for a bedroom?

Bedrooms generally need comfortable ambient lighting, bedside task lighting and optional accent lighting. Warm white lighting is commonly preferred for a relaxed atmosphere, while reading lamps should provide focused illumination without excessive glare.

What lighting is best for a bathroom?

All bathroom lighting available from The Lighting Warehouse has an IP44 rating, making it suitable for use in bathroom environments and protected against splashes of water.

What lighting is best for a lounge?

Combine a central ceiling fitting with floor lamps, table lamps, wall lights or spotlights. This allows the brightness and mood to be adjusted for entertaining, reading and watching television.

What lighting is best for a staircase or entrance hall?

Chandeliers, cascading pendants and multi-light fittings can create a focal point in double-volume entrances and staircases. Wall lights and step lights can improve visibility and safety. Ensure the fitting does not interfere with walkways, doors or head clearance.

Globes, LEDs and Technical Terms

Are globes included with light fittings?

Not always. The product description will state whether globes are included, excluded or whether the product has an integrated LED. Check the globe type, cap, wattage and quantity before ordering.

What is an integrated LED light?

An integrated LED fitting has LED components built into the light rather than using a conventional replaceable globe. Integrated LEDs often offer a slim design and efficient performance.

What are lumens?

Lumens measure the amount of visible light produced. A higher lumen rating generally means a brighter light.

What does Kelvin mean in lighting?

Kelvin describes the colour appearance of white light:

  • Approximately 2700K to 3000K: warm white

  • Approximately 4000K: neutral or cool white

  • Approximately 5000K to 6500K: daylight white

The exact appearance can differ between products and environments.

Can LED lights be dimmed?

Only LED globes and integrated LED fittings specifically marked as dimmable should be used with a dimmer. The dimmer must also be compatible with the LED load. Using an incompatible dimmer may cause flickering, buzzing or poor performance.

Outdoor and Solar Lighting

Can an indoor light fitting be installed outdoors?

No. unless the manufacturer specifically states that it is suitable for outdoor use. Outdoor fittings are designed with appropriate protection against moisture, dust and weather exposure.

How do solar lights work?

Solar lights use a solar panel to charge an internal battery during daylight. The stored energy powers the light after dark. Performance depends on sunlight exposure, panel position, weather, battery condition and operating mode.

Do solar lights need direct sunlight?

Solar lights perform best when the panel receives several hours of unobstructed direct sunlight. Shade from trees, roofs, walls or buildings can reduce charging and shorten the operating time at night.

Do solar lights work during cloudy weather?

Solar lights can still charge in cloudy conditions, but charging may be slower and the light may operate for fewer hours. Extended periods of poor weather can reduce performance.

Are solar lights suitable for security lighting?

Solar motion-sensor lights and solar floodlights can support outdoor visibility and security in suitable locations. Their performance depends on solar exposure, battery capacity, brightness and detection range. They should form part of a broader security plan rather than being the only security measure.

Ceiling Fans

How do I choose the correct ceiling fan size?

Consider the room dimensions, ceiling height, blade span and intended airflow. Larger rooms generally require a larger fan or more than one fan. Check the product specifications and installation clearances before buying.

What is the difference between an AC and DC ceiling fan?

DC ceiling fans generally use energy-efficient motors, offer multiple speed settings and can operate quietly. AC fans use a conventional alternating-current motor. Features vary by model, so compare the product specifications rather than choosing on motor type alone.

Can a ceiling fan be installed on a sloped ceiling?

Some ceiling fans can be fitted to sloped ceilings using the correct mounting system or extension rod. Suitability depends on the fan model and ceiling angle. Confirm this before purchasing.

Should a ceiling fan be installed by an electrician?

Yes. A ceiling fan should be securely mounted and electrically connected by a qualified electrician in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and warranty requirements.

Installation and Safety

Does The Lighting Warehouse install light fittings?

No. The Lighting Warehouse does not offer installation services. We recommend contacting the Electrical Contractors’ Association of South Africa (ECA), which has a membership network of approximately 4,000 registered electrical contractors who may assist with professional installation.

Can I install a light fitting myself?

No. Electrical light fittings should be installed by a qualified electrician. Incorrect installation can damage the fitting, create a safety risk and affect the product warranty.

Should I buy my light fittings before the electrician arrives?

It is helpful to select the fittings beforehand, but the electrician should confirm that the electrical supply, mounting points, ceiling structure, dimmers and installation environment are suitable for before purchase.

Why should I check product dimensions before ordering?

Images on our website can make a fitting appear larger or smaller than it really is. Check the listed width, diameter, height, length and total drop, and measure the intended position before purchasing.

Trade and Project Orders

Does The Lighting Warehouse offer trade accounts?

Trade account options may be available to qualifying professionals and recurring business customers, including interior designers, architects, contractors and resellers. Applications and benefits are subject to approval and the applicable trade terms.

Can The Lighting Warehouse assist with large lighting orders?

Yes. Contact our team with the product names, product codes/SKUs, quantities, required delivery date and project location. Large orders are subject to stock availability and lead times.

Can I request a quotation?

Contact The Lighting Warehouse with the products, quantities and customer or business details required for the quotation. Supplying product SKUs will help us prepare the quotation accurately.

Does The Lighting Warehouse supply matching lighting ranges?

Yes. Selected collections include coordinating pendant lights, wall lights, ceiling lights, spotlights, floor lamps or table lamps. Search the range name on the website to find matching products.