I often attend customers properties that have issues with their downlights in the ceiling, also known as spotlights.
The common issues are the lights not working or flickering. Some homeowners just want to upgrade their old halogen lights for more energy efficient LED fittings.
There are many downlights available on the market with various options of size, bezel colour and light colour. Most common downlights are 60mm-70mm diameter with the larger ones of 85mm and above being the adjustable type. Some light fittings come with a fixed coloured bezel, also known as a surround. While others are available with different colour changeable ones. Another thing to consider is what type of light colour you prefer and how bright you like it. There are warm white, cool white and day light available. The brightness is measured in lumens which can range from 2000k, 3000k, 4000k and 6000k.
Do you need the lights to be dimmable or non-dimmable? as this can affect the price, not all light fittings and bulbs are dimmable. Some lights will need to be IP rated and fire rated depending on where they are being installed.
Something else to consider is do you want a changeable lamp/bulb or would you prefer a built-in lamp/bulb? Some homeowners like the idea of a maintenance free light fitting where the LED lamp is built in and not changeable. The disadvantage of this is the complete fitting will need replacing when it goes wrong. Most manufacturers guaranteed the fitting for 3 years or 25,000 hours. I install this type of light fitting made by Enlite, the models I use are the E8 and E5, I have these in my own home and I recommend them to all my customers.
There are many different types of light fittings available as you can see by browsing online. One thing to keep in mind is the cost of the fitting, as most things, the higher the price generally means a better-quality light fitting.
Scott Cloud
info@scloudelectricalservices.co.uk
