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In essence, a downlight is a light fitting that illuminates in a downward direction to specifically brighten an area directly below. They are most commonly recessed into the ceiling, so you only see a small part of the fitting below the ceiling. Halogen lights were a huge technological leap forward in their day, however they are only about 30% more efficient than old fashioned incandescent bulbs and will only last about 2 years (based on 3 hours usage everyday). They also get hot so consideration needs to be given to ventilation. Although when thinking of downlights you may automatically think of the recessed type we have mentioned above, it’s also common to categorise the surface mounted spotlight cluster as a form of downlight as, although they are mounted in an external unit fixed to the ceiling, they still actually use downlights as their lighting source.
It’s also essential that the correct cable is used. In most cases 1mm twin and earth should be fine but if it’s a particularly long circuit, there are many lights or they are particularly powerful then 1.5mm twin and earth will need to be used. The electrician doing the work will know exactly what to use. You must consider the safety zones in bathroom where the lights are going to be fitted ( which you can find all about here) as you will need to use IP rated lights in these zones. You need to ensure that you are using the right IP rated light in the zone you are planning to have the lights fitted. There will be instructions with the downlighters kits that you buy so you should follow these and go with the size holes etc. that they state.
Types of Downlights
You don’t want him or her turning up and stating that you have the wrong type for the area they are to be fitted in. IP20 Downlights Also, the functionality of the lights is important, whether they will be used to complement the décor, as ambient light or for utility purposes. These considerations will determine the bulbs’ wattage, colour and temperature. Does the ceiling form part of a fire barrier? - If it does then fire rated fittings are indicated, or a last resort fire hoods again if indicated. Maintain manufacturers fitting clearances. In this DIY guide we take a look at all aspects of downlights including how they are installed. Rules and Regulations for Downlights and Electrics
It seems a junction box is needed whereby the 5 downlights are all (parallel) connected to it along with the ceiling rose. If so, which type of junction box (can I simply use a large chocbox?) should/must I use? If you can put a link to one please that would be great. Use a hole saw to cut through your ceiling. Hold the blade of the saw so it’s perpendicular to the ceiling and the middle bit sits on the mark you made. Pull the trigger on the drill to start the hole saw and apply light pressure so the middle bit goes into the ceiling. Make sure the saw blade stays flat so you don’t cut your hole crooked. Pull the trigger in short bursts to work through your ceiling until you feel the saw pop out from the other side. [8] X Research source If you are simply replacing your spots with something a little more modern or are up grading to LED lighting then you can jump straight to the 3 stage, as stage 1 and 2 will have already been done. Step 1 – Positioning Downlights for InstallationI've just realised though, I'm not clear on where to actually connect the first downlight to the existing light switch. To me, the simplest way is to join the 1mm T&E to the first downlight is in the (please see photo) existing ceiling rose itself although there's already 3 of them, is that still acceptable?
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