Strange Downlighter Problems

[SJamG]

Hi there,

Didn't know where else to post, AV Forums have been good to me in the past, and thought i would give it a go.

I have a strange problem with my downlighters in both of my bathrooms, 2 our of the four wont work. I replaced the bulbs, but it didnt make a difference. I now think its because of dampness in our loft, when you move the bulb in and out of the tail, it flickers and works. I dont think its dampness from the bathroom, as one of them is hardly used!

Obviously, i could get new tails for all of my downlighters (and do so every 3 years!), but is there another solution to prevent this happening? Could I have sealed LED ones or what?


Help is appreciated.

Jamie

[aberdeenpaul]

what IP rating are your down lights in the bathrooms?

you need a good level to ensure they are a sealed type option within the bathroom

[Bruce_]

sounds like you have weak contact pressure. it's not unusual to have this with cheap fixtures. it sounds like the socket that the lamp plugs into has become weak. the lamps run hot, and this will weaken the spring force of the electrical contacts. so after a while you get intermittent operation.

this problem can happen with cheap fixtures. it can also happen with good fixtures that have been installed without adequate ventillation above. if you cover them with insulation it can easily overheat the whole fitting when on for long periods.

it might be a different problem, so you should check other possible causes.