Electrical safety considerations for downlights

installing lighting

Here at Walker Electrical, we are Preston’s leading electrical experts. From industrial to residential settings, we work across sectors to provide top quality electrical and lighting solutions. As a result, we have produced this guide to everything you should know about electrical safety and downlights.

What are the most important electrical safety considerations for downlights?

Unfortunately, poorly installed downlights are the cause of a significant number of fires every year. So understanding how to stay safe with downlights is imperative. When it comes to electrical safety, there are two things you should consider regarding downlights. These are:

  • the type of downlighter
  • the installation

The type of downlighter

There are a couple of different types of downlighter you can purchase. But the safest option for any office, hallway or reception area are the fire rated downlights. These downlights have in-built fire protection to completely seal the downlighter in the event of fire in the room below, to prevent the spread of fire and smoke into other areas. This can restrict the amount of fire damage you will face, and it could help to save lives.

The installation

The second part of keeping safe with downlights, is the installation. You should hire a professional, qualified and registered electrician to install any downlights in your home. This is because the installation needs to follow the manufacturers instructions, and be completely safe. Otherwise you could be leaving your property open to electrical risks. And if you are a Landlord or a company, this could even void your insurance.

Check your existing lights

If you already have downlights, or you inherited them when you purchased the property, it is a good idea to check them over. You can:

  • make sure that there are no visible signs of overheating around the lights or fixtures, or the surrounding ceiling
  • make sure there is enough space between the downlights and the ceiling cavities
  • make sure that downlights are not in contact with or covered by loft insulation or combustible material

For more information or advice, get in touch with the professionals today, here at Walker Electrical.