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Transformer issue when replacing Halogen GU 5.3 with LEDs

  • 22-01-2025 09:45PM
    #1
    kildarejohn
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 342 ✭✭


    About 12 years ago I had new light fittings installed, 12 v halogen downlighters with an individual transformer for each light. I have been replacing them as the bulbs fail with LED equivalents. There are c. 12 of these bulbs altogether. In some cases this has worked fine, in other cases there has been buzzing, flickering and interference with the radio. Seems to depend on brand of bulb and brand of transformer. I am trying to replace the transformers on ones with this issue, but I am finding it very difficult to find suitable transformers. One shop sold me "LED drivers", but when I got them home I discovered in the small print they are DC and of course I need AC for the standard LED GU 5.3. Only transformers I can find online specify that they are not to be used with loads less 30W, and LEDs are only 5W. Anyone know of source for 240 v Pri/12V Sec AC 5 W transformers suitable for downlighters?



Comments

  • #2
    Lenar3556
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,007 ✭✭✭Lenar3556


    If it were me, I would be doing away with transformers altogether and using GU10 lamps instead.

    Or replace the complete fitting with the likes of a tweak recessed?

    https://hegartylighting.ie/recessed-lights/10922-lumeno-tweek-6w-fireproof-led-recessed-cct-downlight.html?srsltid=AfmBOop4sMyq6D-CfKqVrVDmRQ_RQ8HNc80E6iRmGCJ0aL3q6K_FJOjE



  • #3
    kildarejohn
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 342 ✭✭kildarejohn


    Thanks for the advice Lenar, but I want to spend €20 not €300.

    The hardware store shelves are full of GU5.3 12V AC LED bulbs - what does everyone else use who buys these bulbs?



  • #4
    Lenar3556
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,007 ✭✭✭Lenar3556


    I would imagine the market for GU5.3 is now very limited. There remains some special applications (for example track lighting or specialist fittings) where they continue to be used. GU10 (and omit the transformer) is a much better solution for the reasons you have experienced and it will also be less likely to cause a fire.

    You don’t get much for €20 nowadays. But a half decent GU10 LED lamp and bulb holder is probably about €5-6 per fitting.

    But again if it were me, I would change the whole lot for a fully enclosed fire rated down light like the one I linked above.



  • #5
    10-10-20
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,866 ✭✭✭10-10-20


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123088333#Comment_123088333

    GU 5.3 is either 12v AC or DC.

    I'd swap over to GU10 if I was you. Have a look at this thread for some prices, etc.

    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058388215/replacing-old-bathroom-halogen-spotlights-gu5-3-12v-with-leds-gu10-230v


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