Downlights (Recessed Spotlights)

Recessed LED downlights have replaced ceiling roses in many modern installations. They use the same circuit wiring but connect differently.

Wiring Downlights

CUDLDLDLDLDaisy-chained via wiring centres

Key Differences From Ceiling Roses

  1. No loop-in terminal — downlights connect in a daisy chain via wiring centres (connector blocks) in the ceiling void
  2. Switch still works the same — switch cable connects at the wiring centre or junction box
  3. Driver/transformer — LED downlights use an external driver; this must be accessible

Fire Ratings

Downlights cut holes in the ceiling and can compromise fire barriers between floors. There are two solutions:

  • Fire-rated downlights — have a built-in intumescent collar that seals the hole in a fire
  • Downlight covers — a fire hood fitted from above over a non-rated downlight

Without a fire barrier, a ceiling fire can spread to the floor above in under 5 minutes through an unprotected downlight hole.

Insulation and Heat

If insulation is laid in the ceiling void, downlights must not be covered (heat build-up causes failure or fire risk). Use IC-rated downlights designed to be safely covered with insulation.

Installation

Downlights are generally non-notifiable in standard rooms, but always follow BS 7671 and manufacturer instructions.