The Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland (www.reci.ie) has published a Fourth Edition Rules clarification about the correct installation of recessed downlighters to avoid fire risk:
Because of the extensive use of recessed lighting in buildings, RECI inspectors sometimes encounter situations where insulation material has not been cleared away around the light fittings giving rise to a danger of overheating and fire damage. With increased public awareness re Home Energy Saving scheme being operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, we want to highlight this problem again and remind contractors to take particular care when installing recessed light fittings.
The installer must ensure that excessive heat build-up is avoided by keeping clear of thermal insulation and having sufficient space around the luminaire. The importance of clearing away the insulation cannot be over emphasised.
In many installations, particularly retrofits of older premises, it can be very difficult to clear away insulating material. However, as a professional installer the electrical contractor is responsible for ensuring that a safe and satisfactory job is carried out. Time saved initially may well prove costly in subsequent rectification costs.
In summary:
- Always clear away thermal insulation around and above light fitting.
- Ensure that the transformer is positioned at least 25cm from the fitting and free of thermal insulation.
Extra low voltage
lighting provides attractive, effective, economic and reliable lighting solutions
where correctly installed. Ensuring that best practice is observed in installation
work will guarantee safety and satisfaction for the user and safeguard the reputation
of the installer.
The Home Energy Saving scheme Code of Practice has information
in relation to the installation of ceiling insulation and the requirements for
electrical cables and recessed light fittings. This document can be found on their
website by clicking here.
The reference is page 25 and the relevant excerpt is noted below:
h. It is essential that any heavy-duty cables (e.g. for cookers and showers) are not covered by the insulation material and should instead be left on top of the new insulation, provided there is sufficient slack to do so. Where this is not possible, a gap of at least 75mm should be left either side of the (heavy duty) cables for their entire length within the attic area.
i. The insulation material shall be retained at a minimum of 75mm from all electrical apparatus penetrating the ceiling, for example recessed lighting fittings. Where necessary a permanent physical restraint shall be used.
j. Recessed
downlights should be protected in such a way that the insulation does not cover
them and that they are adequately ventilated. It is recommended that a purpose
made recessed lighting housing is used. The contractor must advise the customer
of the need to keep the recessed lights clear of insulation.