Spot lights in the kitchen

[aryl]

I am going to install 4-6 spotlights in the kitchen ceiling, instead of the single light fixture that is currently there. In order to do this I need to lift some floorsboards upstairs to install new cabling from the existing light to all the new positions where the spots are going. So I have some questions regarding this,

1. Am I allowed according to the regulations to do this work myself?
2. What is the best way of connecting the new cabling from the existing light position?
3. What cabling is needed?
4. Which spotlights are most energy efficiant, low voltage and standard?
5. What is the recommendation on installing spotlight i.e. how close should they be to each other?
6. I am doing the same in the hallway is the the regulation different from the kitchen?

 

[sherman0251]

The work in the Kitchen can be carried out by yourself aslong as it is certified and the council are notified. The Hallway will also need to be certified but this does not come under notifiable works!
The best way to connect onto your existing supply is via a 15A junction box in the ceiling void. You should use either 1.5mm T&E or 1.5mm 3 core flex. To comply with the 17th edition your circuit must also be protected by an RCD if the cable you install or is installed is less than 50mm below the surface.
To be honest I would go for the 12v spotlights as they cost less to run and its practically impossible to tell the difference between them and mains fittings.
As for the spacing between spotlights its entirely your own choice. I usually install with a space of about 2m. It just depends on the size of the room really! Bearing in mind that they give off a lot more light than a normal pendant fitting!

 

[RF Lighting]

12v spotlights as they cost less to run

Hows that work then?

 

[sherman0251]

They have a lower power consumption!

 

[RF Lighting]

Oh right.

I didn't realise that 12V downlighters were exempt from ohms law, and defy all the rules of physics.

 

[sherman0251]

Take it im wrong then! What is the difference?

 

[BS3036]

They use slightly more power for the same light output, because of the power lost in the 'transformer'. I'm not sure myself why 12V lighting is so popular!

 

[Steve]

Take it im wrong then! What is the difference?

a 50w lamp is a 50w lamp, regardless of the voltage. It uses the same power. But a 12v lamp has power lost in the transformer as well.

 

[BS3036]

a 50w lamp is a 50w lamp, regardless of the voltage. It uses the same power. But a 12v lamp has power lost in the transformer as well.

I wish I'd said that! Oh but...

 

[aryl]

Thanks everyone for your replies!

I am also glad that we clarified the low voltage issue but I think some of you could be a bit humble if you have better knowledge as this is a forum for sharing and learning.

 

[breezer]

I am also glad that we clarified the low voltage issue

what did you have to go and say that for?

now B-A-S will have to point out that error too

 

[aryl]

The best way to connect onto your existing supply is via a 15A junction box in the ceiling void.

So if I want to put 5 spotlights in the kitchen where I currently have the single light connected to the rose can someone please describe in detail how that should be done and what is needed. A diagram would be great!