Halogen 12V recessed lights - safest options?

Solair

We've a set of 12V halogen recessed lights in our kitchen. They're very well ventilated into an attic and not at all in a position where they should overheat. However, on some of the fittings, the cables have (after about 5 years) burnt just at the back of the bulb holder.

I'm not entirely happy with the safety of these fittings and I'm considering swapping them out for something a little more robust.

They're open at the back, I'd rather have something that was a little more self-contained and controlled.

Any suggestions?

A lot of the fittings available in the usual DIY stores seem like absolute junk.

Ideally, I'd prefer to stick with 12V as the transformers are already in place.

BTW: how does the light output on those compare to standard halogen bulbs?

We have our hall lit with MR16 230V LEDs and they're OK, but not as bright as I would like.

I know the technology's improving rapidly though.

meercat

its the heat off the bulb causing the holder and cable to burn and perish
you can replace the holder
and also using 12v led lamps will help
http://www.qvsdirect.com/12v-3W-MR16-LED-Lamp-pr-23755.html
available from wholesalers here but not suitable with all transformers though

Solair

I might look into that. I'm just generally not very keen on these recessed fittings from a fire-safety point of view. They run ridiculously hot.

There's a lot to be said for surface mounted spots and they don't look THAT bad! At least they won't usually burn your house down !!

meercat

led lamps run really cool
only 3watt
try the super bright ones



3 Watts - Ultra low power consumption
45 superbright LEDs per lamp
150 Lumen
Energy class A
50,000hrs average service life
Fits standard MR16 fitting
96% energy saving compared to halogen bulbs

PrismES

If replacing you shoud consider a fire rated downlighter (such as the 1 in the link below) as this will return the fire rating of the ceiling which was decreased by the installation of recessed downlighters.
http://www.aurora.eu.com/ProductPages/LampProductDetails.aspx?g=6908&c=375&b=94&oc=375