Fitting downlights in a bathroom?

[Rob_B]

Hi folks,

We've currently got 5x MR16s in the bathroom that I've had trouble with, firstly the transformer went so I replaced it, then about a month later the lights were flickering a lot and then stopped working altogether, I went into the loft today and the new transformer has gone/melted where the output wires are(!) (5x20W with a 105V transformer from memory)

The wiring from the transformer to the fittings are a bit of a hash job (not my handywork) so I want to replace the lot with GU10 fittings so I can pop LED bulbs in.

I've been Googling but I'm not clear on a few things, firstly I'll need one fitting that is directly above the shower so it'll need to be IPxx (?) the other 4 should be ok with IP20s (?)

Can someone clear up exactly what is needed, I have the mains input, so what comes from that? I believe they need wired in series(edit I meant parallel!) but when buying GU10 fittings there are no connecting wires so what do I need to buy for that?

It might be best if I get an electrician in so does anyone have an idea of what I could expect to pay for this?

Thanks!

Rob

[deejayburnout]

The lights need to be wired in parallel.

Run the Live , Neutral and Earth from one fitting to the next. Each fitting apart from the last one should have 2 of each wire in it.

If in the bathroom, make them all bathroom fittings. I have them and have been faultless. > http://www.screwfix.com/p/robus-fixe...ome-240v/22455

I am a electrician so you can trust me. If i were to charge for fitting these, when all i needed to do was run some wires and fit the fittings ( no need to drill holes as these will have been done ) I would probably take £60.

[Rob_B]

Ermmm....you're in Fife yeah?...So what's the price for a fellow Hexite?




Otherwise..... would these be ok? http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BRUSHED-CH...item43b02b8ecc

Would the mains voltage be ok with LED GU10s? Could you recommend what wire to get to join them all up?

[deejayburnout]

Are you Fifer too?

Those fittings on ebay are fine.

All GU10s are rated for 240v so a LED GU10 is fine. I would use 1.5mm Twin and Earth. Its the standard wire for house wiring.

[Rob_B]

I'm in NQ

Do you work down this neck of the woods if I can pick up the fittings?

[deejayburnout]

I live in Buckhaven so not far away. Work in Cowdenbeath at Mossmorran.

I can do it for you. You get the fitting and cable, i will do the rest.

[Rob_B]

Much appreciated I'll check with my wife about cost to see if she wants me to give it a shot first!

Regarding the cable - <removed> < is this the stuff?

Edit - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/All-Sizes-...item3ccb1c9862 > cheaper cable

[deejayburnout]

The ebay stuff is fine get 1.5mm. depending on how big your bathroom is get at least 10m

Can give you any advice you want.

[Rob_B]

You're a star, thanks very much

Just spent a fortune on fittings, cable and LED bulbs but at least we'll be able to see in the bathroom after 5PM now!

Much appreciated If I don't get the ok to DIY it then I'll pester you

[deejayburnout]

You're a star, thanks very much

Just spent a fortune on fittings, cable and LED bulbs but at least we'll be able to see in the bathroom after 5PM now!

Much appreciated If I don't get the ok to DIY it then I'll pester you

No problems. Will help where i can. What bulbs did you buy?

BTW Hexus discount - Will do it for £50.

[Rob_B]

Some 4W thingies off eBay, no-name stuff but probably better than the 'Cree' bulbs from Honk-Kong (I'm sure they'd be legit )

Thanks for the discount, do you work for PC parts?...

[deejayburnout]

Thanks for the discount, do you work for PC parts?...

If they are 4watt Cree then should be good. do you have a link to them. Its all about the beam angle!

Depends what the parts are. Not looking for anything TBH. Just bought a new Asus HD 7850 DirectCU II today.

[Rob_B]

Nah they're cheapy ones so fingers crossed!

Only half-joking on the hardware!
I've just sorted through my 'bits boxes' and realise I have case/psu/mobo/ram/wifi antennae/PC&AV cables/RAMsinks/TIM/HDDs/Sky+ Box/Router

[GoNz0]

personally i fit ip65 fire rated downlights when putting a hole in the ceiling, saves a fast spread of fire if one breaks out.

and as you already have had an idiot fit them you have a good argument to DIY as you will do a better job

[deejayburnout]

As he will be using LED's the temp compared to standard halogen GU10 is big.

He will have no chance of a fire due to high temps.

[deejayburnout]

rob

this might help you understand how to wire the lights