Exterior downlights

[deuce22]

Hi.

I have 13 downlights/spotlights going under the soffit and need to know which ones to use.

The electrician told me to get IP66 ones.

Are these the only ones to use?

What difference are these to other ones?

Cheers.

 

[riveralt]

I'm not sure why you do not trust your electrician on this one.

This is the wiki link that will give you the meaning of IP rating - it refers to bathrooms but also applies to outside electrics which by the way should be RCD protected.

http://www.diynot.com/wiki/electrics:other:ip

 

[deuce22]

Hi riveralt.

I do trust the Electrician.

I recently bought down lights for my bathroom and they were IP65. When I asked him what the difference was he didn't really give me an answer he just said IP66 are the ones he has always used for outside.

I just wanted to know myself, so I don't have to ask in the future.

Cheers.

 

[riveralt]

I suppose the question that really should be asked is are these 'lights' suitable for outside? If they are then you are okay to fit them.
Many manufacturers will guarantee outside lights with an IP rating of IP44.
The other thing to be aware of is that many downlights do not like plastic soffits - if that is the direction you are thinking of going.

 

[Chri5]

Going for 13 halogen 50w will cost you 0.65 kwh or about 10p to run every hour they are on.

Might be better getting led which last a lot longer (So no climbing up ladders every 3months to change bulbs). 5w led will cost you 0.065 kwh or about 1p per hour

 

[deuce22]

I've just read the IP ratings and from what the guy in the electric wholesalers said, it seems about right.

He said that IP65 should be OK for under soffit lighting.

From what the ratings state IP66 would be more for driveways or decking areas, where you may use a pressure washer.

I initially thought that the quality of the exterior part of the lights were better considering they were outside in the elements, but it doesn't look like theres any difference.

Chris.

I'll have a look at the LED type.

Thanks.

 

[holmslaw]

..

 

[17thman]

I suppose it depends on the cable installation method.

 

[Chri5]

Rcbo on a direct circuit