dimmable LED downlights

[bernardgreen]

Some lamps and other items can be IP44 yet have an airway from front to back which allows air to pass over the item to cool it.

The item or lamp may be "water proof" even IP 66 but after fitting it the ceiling ( or wall or cabinet ) is no longer air tight and certainly not water tight.

 

[masamune]

Why did you start this topic if the installer is making the choice for you?

Because I wanted to know he is making the right choice. Although I hijacked my own thread about living room spots with spots about the bathroom (still relevant though).

The lights, and their insytallatioon, also have to comply with Building Regulations. In this case, Part C is mosf relavent as it deals with the passage of moisture.
The lights MUST stop steam being drawn into the loft area, otherwise the damp will sit on your roof timbers, which will rot over time.

There will be an extractor fan but I am not sure if he is going to make some special arrangement for the light tightness as you rightly suggest.


By the way, if I want another fitting to my likeness what dimmable LEDs with warm light would you suggest buying? That is for the living room.

 

[masamune]

Bear in mind that IPxx refers to access and moisture penetration to the electrical connections, and there is no reason why an IP65 light should necessarily do anything to prevent water vapour getting through to the other side of the ceiling.

Yes a good point, but what do you propose in that case? A good seal/tightness as Taylortwocities?

 

[Taylortwocities]

Either

fit a loftcap over each fitting, like this
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/TLALC274.html

Or buy products that are suitable for the application.

 

[masamune]

So to conclude on the bathroom lights, since the downlights are considered an outside zone anything could work as long as it is sealed to prevent moisture to the loft. But IP20 is perhaps a low rating and something in the range of IP4x could be used?

From what I understand they don't have to be 12v? I heard transformers are prone to failing and 230v may be a better option.