Downlighters

[reynard116]

Which are best, 12v or 240v?
This is for a new build bedroom and i'm unsure if to fit 12v or 240v. Is there any reason why and when you should fit either?

 

[telectrix]

cost. 240 don't need transformers

 

[reynard116]

This is for my own house. As they are on the 1st floor and above s just insulated loft space do i need fire hoods? Are fire hoods just to protect the integrity of the ceiling for spread of fire or do they help with the temperatures generated by the fittings?

 

[telectrix]

you only need fire rated fittings and/or fire hoods if the above is occupied by another tenant, e,g. flats. in your own house it,s up to you. just make sure there is at least 6" all round clear of insulation.

 

[sjm]

For energy efficiency fit fire rated lights with a suitable cover that will allow you to cover it with insulation. Why leave a large cold gap around and above the light. 240 volts would be my choice everytime no transformers to site above insulation. 50 watts is 50 watts wether 12 volt or 240 volts. Apparently though you will get a better and more even white colour from 12 volts.

 

[keniff]

i prefer the brighter light with low voltage i know they are the same wattage bulbs in most cases but the low voltage is a crisper cleaner light if you get what i mean

 

[davelerave]

gu-10 gives you easy option of cfl,led,halogen


if it's definitely halogen bulb 12v is best

 

[mattyevz]

only thing about the 12v is you sometimes get problems with the trannys. plus Gu10 is cheaper for today competitive market.

 

[davelerave]

only thing about the 12v is you sometimes get problems with the trannys. plus Gu10 is cheaper for today competitive market.

yes

the sooner halogens and trafos are gone the better


i use all gu-10 led for new work if customer will pay-

fitting a few 7w dimmable leds shortly in a sitting room- about 30euro a bulb ouch!!

 

[Amp David]

I'd be going down the LED route too if it was my own house. No need to worry about messing around moving insulation away and give good light.

 

[jam2020]

led's all the way in your own house.thats my humble opinion anyway