LED downlights are a relatively new solution in lighting’s long history. The first commercial LEDs were used in indoor lighting as recently as the early 2000s. In a short time, LED lights have become a standard feature in new homes and offices.
LED downlights have several advantages compared to traditional incandescent lighting. LED downlights:
- use less energy
- Produce less heat
- Enable more accurate positioning
- Are easier to install, upgrade and replace
You may be wondering: how can I get all these advantages in my building? Do I need to pay for professional downlight installation, or is it possible to DIY?
Keep reading and let NJP Electrical illuminate you on the innovation that is LED downlights.
LED downlights – installation caveats
Good news, you can install and change your own LED downlights. These lights can be used at home or at your office.
However, there are some caveats.
As with any electrical work in the home or office, you should only attempt to fit or exchange LED downlights if your residential electrician gives the all-clear.
We can’t stress this enough: an electrician needs to replace or install the light fittings before you can install LED downlights.
You should never, under any circumstances, attempt to install electrical wiring yourself.
The downlight installation process
Installing LED ceiling downlights into a professionally installed light fitting is surprisingly simple. Most modern LEDs for indoor lighting come with clever clips that plug into pre-existing power cables.
Installation takes around 30 seconds. You don’t need to call the electrician back after the initial installation if you wish to plug in or replace your downlights.
It’s worth mentioning that while DIY downlight installation can save you time and money in some cases, the benefits are limited to situations where you need to paint or renovate the ceiling after an electrician installs wiring.
It’s always better to get an electrician to install ceiling downlights for a few reasons.
- Licenced electricians provide quality guarantees
- All wiring will be safe and secure
- The results will look professional and work properly right away
- Any damage to the ceiling is covered
Plus, if the electrician can install wiring and lighting at the same time, you might not incur any extra labour costs.
The pitfalls of poorly installed indoor lighting
Electrical faults account for an estimated 40% of residential fires, causing millions of dollars of preventable damage and putting lives in danger.
Faulty wiring and incorrect downlight installation are potential fire hazards.
In addition, DIY downlight installation carries several hidden risks:
- Misalignment
- Patchy light coverage
- Incorrect lighting choice
- Faulty light or switch
All these misadventures will significantly increase the cost of installing indoor lighting, not to mention the fire risk and frustration.
The bottom line on indoor lighting installation
Most commercial and residential builders today choose to install LED ceiling downlights. This helps to save on energy costs, simplify indoor lighting and maximise the impact of indoor lighting.
With the right sparky on your side, you can get all the benefits of LED downlights without any risk or additional cost.
Speak to NJP Electrical today for expert advice and a tailored quote on downlight installation. Our residential and commercial electricians are licenced, experienced and fully equipped to do the job safely and efficiently.
