DIY Doctor UK DIY Forums

I'm renovating a property and want to use low voltage downlighters in the relatively large open plan livingroom/kitchen.

What is the most acceptable wiring layout for a multi-light installation of (greater than say 10 lights off one switch) without it becoming an explosion in a wiring factory :shock:

I'm hazarding a guess it would along the lines of 2-4 light fittings per transformer with the transformers wired from junction boxes

Do runs of LV lights have to be fused separately from the normal 240v lighting circuits ??

I've got complete access to the back of the ceilings as I've not floored upstairs yet and i've no old lighting circuit left to have to have to patch into

thanks

best way for this is one transformer per light ,reason for this is if your transformer goes you only loose one light ,use fire rated down lighters ,so you wont need fire blankets ,the quantity depends on loadings ,work on each fitting being 50 watts 10 of them will be 500 watts divide that by 230 nominal voltage and this will give you the current ,loop your cable in out in out each position use a 20 amp junction box and the a flex drop to the light using heat resistant flex ,dont use connector block as this has to be enclosed,oh any you are aware this will need part p cerification under building control

You shouldn't be installing lighting in a kitchen unless your are Part P registered! get an expert in who is!

Many thanks for the info, Mr Sparky. I guess its the cost of individual transformers versus smaller volt drop on shorter run/ease of replacement/area blacked out if they pop. Will taking your advice on that and pay the extra.

What about the need to separately fuse a LV lighting circuit. Good practice or is it a Part P requirement ?

I am aware of the Part P certification. I’ve had a discussion with Building Control and they are quite happy with my plans wrt to re-wiring and having it checked off as I go. I’m not an electrician, but I’ve got a couple of degrees in Electrical & Electronics Engineering. For me, its understanding the relevant requirements in the areas I’m working on (hence the questions), apply them and get someone “competentâ€