What's The Lowdown on Downlights?

RangaWal on 14/01/2020 - 09:30

I see many downlights have a normal 3 prong plug on them. My understanding is this makes it easier to install new lights (plug and play) and don;t need an electrician. However, how common are they - I notice plenty for sale that are wired in without a plug. I'm looking to standardise mine at home (got a mix of 3 different kids, including halogen), and suspect it might be best to have the electrician add plugs instead of hard-wiring.

Also, if I go plug-in, are there any recommended brands/types? I've got quite a few Hue lights, but not sure if the downlights are a good idea.

Electrical & Electronics Downlight

Comments

  • MercSal on 14/01/2020 - 09:41
    +3

    I switched a bunch of my downlights to plugs a while back, when switching from halogens. was about $15 per light i think? maybe less. Cant see any reason not to, given that it means i can now change them to my hearts content

  • Skramit on 14/01/2020 - 09:52
    +1

    3 prong plugs are great because of the DIY aspect once you have them.

    I buy all my down-lights online from Galaxy Lighting in Cairns. Great range vs bunnings and good prices vs beacon et al and super helpful service if you're not sure what to get.

  • netjock on 14/01/2020 - 11:14
    +1

    How common? $10 from Bunnings. You'll be able to get them by the truck load. I'd suggest getting it to save money in the long run. Plus 50k hours of life (so it says).

  • apu on 14/01/2020 - 11:35
    +1

    I think most modern downlights are plug in these days. You would have your sparky install plug bases to the lighting wiring (which is essentially a female powerpoint without a switch).

    A common brand used by trades is SAL Sunny. I have 60+ SAL Sunny downlights at my place.

  • macrocephalic on 14/01/2020 - 11:44
    +1

    The plugs are super easy for the electricians to install now as well. You can buy ones which simply clamp onto the flex (cabling) - no cutting, stripping, or screwing down terminals. You just wrap it around the flex and clamp it down. I don't see any reason you'd hard wire downlights now.

  • RangaWal on 14/01/2020 - 13:11

    Anyone had any experience with smart versions? I see the Brilliant units have a plug, but I don't think the Hue lights do. I'd rather Hue for convenience of the dimmer switch, which I think works much easier than the Brilliant switches (but could be wrong).

    • Soluble on 14/01/2020 - 15:31

      Non plug versions can have the plug added super easy.

      • RangaWal on 14/01/2020 - 15:44
        +1

        Would need to be added by an electrician?

        • Soluble on 14/01/2020 - 17:27

          Yes, but can be very cheap depending on where you go/who does it.

  • raytriplej on 14/01/2020 - 13:13
    +1

    Please be aware that you should not cover a downlight (or associated transformer) with insulation. Many fires have started because of people doing this. There is guidance in AS3000 on this. The heat needs to dissipate.

    • smux on 09/07/2021 - 10:39

      As a general rule, yes, downlights shouldn't be covered by insulation. But these days IC-4 rated LED downlights are available, i.e. insulation can abut and cover these ones.

      I'd still want some kind of cover over my downlights before I put insulation over it though.

  • brad1-8tsi on 14/01/2020 - 17:51

    I've used JinHang Electrical. They are good downlights, dim without flicker, don't pulse and have swith to choose the colour. The come with the plug. THeir surface mount plugs are OK considering how cheap they are.

    THey are in Brisbane & Melbourne. Possibly the only sell to trade buyers.

    I highly recommend getting the plugs fitted

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