Replacing downlight transformer that says it is 24v

[lucluc]

We have a downlight transformer that I believe has broken. It powers a single GU5.3/12v bulb.

However, when I took the 20-year-old transformer from the ceiling it has a post-it note stuck to it saying "24V" (where I had expected 240V) with two lines below that wires saying "N" and "PH" (presumably neutral and live). The other side (connected to wires to the bulb) says 12v on the post-it note.

Is it really likely to be a 24v to 12v transformer, with perhaps a 240v to 24v transformer somewhere else? Perhaps this was common in the past? I can't find any replacement transformer locally since they are all 240v to 12v. There are no markings on the transformer to confirm its voltage.

The wiring to the transformer is a thick cable with presumably live, neutral, and a capped off earth wire. There is no visible daisy-chaining to the other transformers so I don't know how the other downlighters are wired, presumably hidden behind another light.

I had hoped to just replace the whole transformer with a GU10/240v bulb since the transformers hum with LED bulbs, but am happy to just replace the transformer if it's easier.

Thanks for any info.

 

[jj4091]

You will need to establish what voltage the input actually is with a multi-meter.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

However, when I took the 20-year-old transformer from the ceiling it has a post-it note stuck to it saying "24V" (where I had expected 240V)

So not an official label.

with two lines below that wires saying "N" and "PH" (presumably neutral and live).

Neutral and Phase.

Is it really likely to be a 24v to 12v transformer, with perhaps a 240v to 24v transformer somewhere else?

No.

I had hoped to just replace the whole transformer with a GU10/240v bulb since the transformers hum with LED bulbs, but am happy to just replace the transformer if it's easier.

As jj said, check the supply voltage.

If it's 24 you've probably got a set-up hitherto unheard of.

 

[winston1]

I had hoped to just replace the whole transformer with a GU10/240v bulb since the transformers hum with LED bulbs,

That would be the best option.

 

[JohnW2]

That would be the best option.

It probably would - but if, bizarrely, it were a 24V->12V transformer, then one would have to find and remove whatever produced the 24V and then find a suitable feed for the new 230V/240V bulb.

Kind Regards, John