LED GU10's and digital radios

[PJK]

Hi

I installed several LED GU10's in original down lights. Lamps are cool white 4000k around 316lm and 6 watt. Customer very happy with the nice light etc., however when they are switched on the digital radio signal is lost on her kitchen radio and the music stops, as soon as the lights are switched off the music starts. Tried moving the radio around the kitchen and it still happens. I take it that EMI is interferring with the digital signal, anyone came accross this before.

 

[Strima]

Never thought about it but you may be onto something here. Got two LED downlighters in the kitchen running from a high level shelf, long story but I digress.

Unwrapped my new Makita DAB site box last week and fired it up. Could get no reception in the kitchen but as soon as I moved it to the dining room the sounds were banging out. However the Bush DAB works fine in the kitchen??? I'm guessing certain types might get interference from the LED gubbins.

Have they tried a different radio?

 

[PJK]

Good idea, I will check that out in a few days, cheers.

 

[Strima]

Let us know, could be onto something here.

 

[Tony Way]

Had exactly the same with 4 x 7w first generation LEDs in a bathroom. As soon as the were switched on, killed signal to digital radio. That was over a year ago and having installed a hell of a lot since then, have had no problems. Most lights installed now are Simply LED Nextgen and I've had no problems, even the latest with 30 fittings in one room.
Never did get to the bottom of the signal problem.

 

[drew35]

You have to pass the parcel before the music restarts!

I've just fitted kitchen LED's and I know the customer was installing a DAB radio in one of the cupboards, oh dear, at least I'm fore warned!

 

[Rockingit]

I've found this problem just on standard FM as well. I guess the cheap(ish) drivers are kicking out a huge amount of RF and most of them don't have an earth on them to dump it down. No idea what the solution is, though!

 

[PJK]

UPDATE

I called back to the kitchen with the downlights that turn off the digital radio. The radio in question was a PURE radio and I tried a BUSH one, it also was blocked by the downlights. I changed all the bulbs to Aurora and problem solved. The first bulbs gave grand light and done the job, they cost £6 each and were CREE make. The Aurora ones were £12 each. Seems you get what you pay for, my profit margin just got smaller.