R80 ES reflector downlights

[rugbynick]

Hi,

Had a call over holidays to look at reported 'exploding' recessed kitchen downlights (ES R80 Reflector type) that had been changed by another contractor but didn't want him back.

Changed tube in fluorescents above perspex ceiling tiles in bathroom and got that working although would not be compliant with todays standard (exposed joints above ceiling and no IP rating).

Didn't appear to be anything wrong with kitchen lights so changed bulb with one supplied and worked fine. 3 hours later it had blown again. I had done this as a loss leader foc as fuseboard is old 3036 rewireable and cabling quite old so will be recommending an upgrade with new ccu and full test.

Any ideas what is causing this- it's only one of the four that seems to be a problem now but client insists that all have exploded over last 3 weeks.

thanks

Nick

 

[Richard Burns]

Cheap lamps I would expect, or possibly a loose / corroded connection on screw fitting in the lamp.
Repeated lamp changes may have "cleaned" the connector, worth looking into the flimsy little brass tabs and ensuring they are not bent and causing arcing.
Could possibly be over voltage getting them to hot but unlikely.