Low voltage kitchen lighting

[gabbyandcharlie]

I lost one then two lights in the kitchen(downlighters). I have changed the bulbs with no success. Any ideas?

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

I lost one then two lights in the kitchen(downlighters). I have changed the bulbs with no success. Any ideas?

Low voltage or extra low voltage(ELV)?
If ELV they will be connected to transformers, which can fail and can be replaced. Likely to be tucked away in ceiling void, somewhere near the downlight hole.
Can you clarify the lamp(bulb) type that you are replacing?

 

[gabbyandcharlie]

How can you tell the difference LV or ELV?

Can you disconnect and replace Transformers?

 

[gabbyandcharlie]

do you need a tranfsormer for each light?

I do not have abulb handy at this moment =at other place.

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

In some cases each lamp will have a transformer.
The lamp (bulb) should have 12V or 230/240v stated on it, this will indicated whether LV or ELV.
The transformers can be replaced, you most note down it's rating or take the a dead one with you. As not all are suitable.
Also make sure the power is isolated prior to removal.

 

[Iggifer]

easiest way to tell is, which type of lamp are they?

GU10 or MR16? These seem to be the most common

GU10 are LV and do not require a transformer. Have two beefy pins
MR16 are (generally) ELV and require a transformer. Have two pin-like pins

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

Something like this in ceiling void.

Untitled

• PrenticeBoyofDerry
• 13 Apr 2012
• 1

 

[gabbyandcharlie]

Thanks for your help. I think they are the thin 'pin' type and I now know what to look for.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

GU10 or MR16? These seem to be the most common

What do you mean "or"? The two characteristics of lamps are not related in any mutually exclusive way.

GU10 is the type of base, MR16 is the type of envelope. Nearly all GU10 base lamps have MR16 envelopes (you can get MR11 ones, but they are uncommon). Most lamps with MR16 envelopes have either GU10 or GU5.3 bases.

Would you say that a GLS lamp must have a BC base, and a lamp with a BC base must be a GLS and one with an ES base cannot be?

LV MR16 lamps will probably be available for longer than ELV ones.

Or maybe not.

http://www.luxmagazine.co.uk/2012/02/low-voltage-halogen-lamps-set-to-be-banned-from-next-year/ (be aware that they incorrectly use the term "low voltage" to refer to 12V lights). //www.diynot.com/wiki/electrics:voltage-bands