Replacing down lights with LED Lights

borolad, Oct 4, 6:58am
Just want to know whether this is a diy job or do I pay professional to do this. I want to replace my older style down lights, with modern LED type. Is there much invlolved? Also, seen some LED lights advertised on TM, some quite cheap. Should I stay clear of cheaper ones, any suggestions on what to look for when purchasing new lights, cheers
rbd, Oct 4, 7:30am
What do you mean by older?

I replaced 50w 12V halogens bulbs with LED, then had to go through and replace the resistors in the ceiling as they were too old technology for the halogens.

Depends how much you can do yourself.
borolad, Oct 4, 8:09am
they are just a standard down light with screw in bulbs, around 13 years old
johotech, Oct 4, 8:42am
Do you think you're capable of replacing the lights and doing the wiring safely?
Do you know how to select the lights that will work in the existing locations?
Do you know what SCB & HCB are?
Do you know the difference between IC and CA-135 rating?

So do you think you could just Google most of that?
Or do you think it would be better to just hire someone licensed who will certify their work?

A very high percentage of the lights on Trademe are crap by the way. Some of them may not have NZ certification - so an electrician may be reluctant to install them. You might get them installed, then find that they perform poorly or put out a very harsh light. It could be an excellent way to waste money.
lakeview3, Oct 4, 9:13am
do you mean the whole unit? You can get fully enclosed ones so there is no gap and heat loss. Why don’t you go to someone like ideal electrical and see what they have. Always go for a reputable brand like Phillips for example as their products are backed up by a warranty. Either way if it is more than just a bulb change you will need to get a registered electrician to install.
borolad, Oct 4, 7:55pm
yes, i am meaning a whole unit, and thanks, will take a trip to electrical shop today for advice
johotech, Mar 14, 8:58pm
Go to an electrical wholesaler - NOT a lighting shop - The units at lighting shops are very similar to what's on Trademe.

Ask at the electrical wholesaler what their most popular model with the trade is. They will have hundreds of them in stock.

I usually use Hugo DLEK220. They are around 85-90mm cutout, but there is an adaptor ring that goes up to roughly 105mm.

I've probably put in over 600 of them in the last 5 or so years.