Can I install downlights myself?

Fitting downlights is a job that you can do yourself, however like any electrical DIY project if you are not totally sure about what you are doing them you should get a professional electrician to assist you.

Can you fit downlights without lifting floorboards?

Yes you can fit downlighters without taking ceiling down, as you have said floor boards are up. The electrician will drill the right sized hole in the ceiling to take the lights.

Do you need an electrician to install LED downlights?

As LED downlights must be installed by a licensed electrician, it could be a wise idea to talk about this issue when you are getting quotes for your new lights.

How are downlights held in place?

A typical downlight consists of a pressed steel or cast aluminium lamp holder with a decorative fascia. During installation, the downlight is inserted into a suitably sized hole where it is held in place with either spring or compression clips, depending on the type of downlight purchased.

Can you daisy chain downlights?

Yes, although you can piggy back off each downlight so you shouldn’t need the wagos at each light, just where you new cables connect to existing. If you can get above, just use a junction box. Obviously make sure your new downlight are suitable for bathroom use.

How easy is it to fit spotlights?

They’re easy to install and are a safe option – particularly in kitchens, as they carry no risk of electrocution. You can simply clip low-voltage cables along the top or underside of your units. The light is very bright and directed, which is perfect over your kitchen work surface.

Do LED downlights need a transformer?

All LED bulbs require a ‘driver’ (a special type of transformer) to work properly. Mains voltage LED light bulbs (such as GU10 and B22 bulbs) have the driver built in to the bulb. If you are replacing existing incandescent 12V bulbs you will need to replace the transformer with a special LED driver.

How do you push downlights into a ceiling?

Once the wiring has been pulled through the hole the downlight can be wired. To fit the downlight into the hole, hold the two springs back against the sides of the downlighter and push up into the hole. The springs then lie flat on the top of the ceiling holding it in place.

How many downlights do I need calculator?

The general consensus for selecting the number of downlights required is as follows: Step 1 – Measure the square footage of the room by multiplying its width by its depth. Step 2 – Multiply this square footage by 1.5. This will give you a guideline for the total wattage required to light the space.

Why do downlights have transformers?

MR16 halogen downlights require a transformer for each globe. Most transformers/drivers installed with halogen downlights are rated as either 50 or 60 watts (or VA). This means that they are rated to supply lamps that draw up to 50 or 60 watts more than the energy they consume to energise themselves.

What do I need to fit LED downlights?

Can I replace halogen downlights with LED?

Fortunately, upgrading Halogen MR16 light bulbs to LED is usually a painless affair, as most LED light bulbs are now designed to retrofit to existing light fittings. All you have to do to swap your old light bulbs out is remove them from the light fixture and fit the new, shiny light bulbs in their place.

What does IC 4 mean?

Are LED downlights safe?

The IC-4 Rating means that Redilight recessed light fittings can be safely installed without minimum clearances for normally flammable building element(s) contained in combustible areas, including ceiling spaces.

Do all LED downlights need a driver?

LED downlights contain no hazardous solids, liquids or gases such as mercury or tungsten. This means they are safer for the environment and your family. They also utilise direct lighting, meaning they don’t create the same light pollution of traditional lighting.

Is IC 4 the same as IC-F?

Do LED recessed lights need to be IC rated?

Every LED light source requires a driver. The question should be whether or not you need to purchase one separately. Some LEDs already include an integrated driver within the bulb. LEDs designed for household use (bulbs with E26 / E27 or GU24 / GU10 bases and that run on 120V) typically already include a driver.

Can LED downlights covered insulation?

IC-4 or IC-F? IC and IC-4 mean that the light can be covered with insulation, CA90 means that insulation can abut but not cover the fitting and non-IC means that insulation must be kept clear. That is essentially the same as being rated IC-4, able to be covered with insulation.