Do you have to use Low voltage Downlights in Bathrooms

bro' · 13-06-2006 08:23PM #1

As title say's..
Can I not use Mains voltage down lights in a bathroom since these can have low energy bulbs then fitted [unlike low voltage lights I understand] and also I believe mains voltage can be dimmed?
Electrician says only low voltage in bathrooms but would appreciate any comments.

Reyman · 13-06-2006 09:43PM

I think your electrician is right - low voltage only. I have a set of the 220V ones and it says they're not suitable for a bathroom.

On your other point I've never heard of low energy rated bulbs, which could be used on a dimmer switch.
Maybe they exist - what make are the ones you're talking about?

bro' · 13-06-2006 09:58PM

Hi Reyman
I thought it was just a matter of whether the lights are IP rated for the different zones on the bathroom and not that it has to be low voltage?

Sorry for the confusion but in my previous post I said mains voltage being dimmable [spelling?] I am not aware of low energy bulbs being able to be dimmed either..

Reyman · 14-06-2006 01:56PM

The ones I have are IP44. Bulbs GU5.3 - 12volt.

I'm presuming the step down transformer is used because it's compulsory in the bathroom

FX Meister · 15-06-2006 05:04PM

I think it's fine to use mains voltage down lights as long as they are properly rated for a bathroom. i.e. IP44
Low voltage lights can be dimmed, they just need a dimmable transformer and it's an advantage to have a soft start dimmer switch.

Do you have to use Low voltage Downlights in Bathrooms

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