DOWNLIGHTS AND INSULATION??

[jon26]

I wonder if you can help. When downlights are fitted in a property what is the normal installation practice when insulation quilt is laid near them.

Firstly, in the first floor, I assume the insulation in the loft has to be well away from the fitting in the loft due to the heat they disipate. Also, when they are installed to ground floor ceilings and insulation is in the floor void the electrician will presumably have to make sure the fitting is away from the insulation.

How are these measures normally taken, do you put a cover over the fitting? Could there be any danger of fire if they are installed touching the insulation?

 

[Taylortwocities]

The maker of the light will give details of clearances and you should install accordingly.

Most thermal insulation (these days) is fire retardant but your lamps (and transformers) will not last too long if they are completely overlaid with a cosy fi-glass blanket and left to cook.

Ther's a number of solutions:
Make a plasterboard box
Pop a large plant pot over the lamp (there's a hole in the bottom for ventilation - well it will be hole in the top when you use it)
Use a cover specially made for the job eg http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/JC94020.html