12V Lighting failure Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[watki1j]

I have a 12V ceiling lighting system with three GU5.3 bulbs. When flicking the light switch on (not a dimmer) one of the three lights used to come on about half a second after the others. Now it comes on sometimes and then usually goes out after between 2 and 30 seconds as if it is losing power. The other two lights function normally. There does not appear to be any loose wiring and the fault is not with the bulb. The wiring/boxes are resting on the plasterboard ceiling and I do not have access except for the three lightbulb holes unless I cut a section of the ceiling out which of course I do not wish to do. Any ideas as to the failure and how I could fix it by managing to avoid a major redecoration????? Thanks

[rosebery]

Transformer? Do each of the lights have a separate transformer? If so you should be able to remove the transformer through the ceiling cut-out for the light.

Cheers

[moggy1968]

if you've only got 1 transformer it sounds as though your pulling too much power for it.
try removing one of the other bulbs thats ok, then flick the switch on, if it's ok then thats your problem, otherwise as above an individual transformer may be US but start of removing one of the other bulbs as thats the easy option.
Andy

[watki1j]

Thanks guys for your advice - by using a 20W rather than 50W bulb in the socket with a "weak transformer" I have solved the problem.