Downlight min distance to joists

[Deleted member 112675]

Yes that one again - been answered a millions times BUT often the answer is do what the MI say. I have the Enlite DLM982x and it doesn't specify any distances. Obvisouly I'm fitting LEDs but these cans would in theory allow a halogen.

SO, belts and braces seems to suggest 50mm but could I fit them 20mm? Touching ? If not why not? - Where is the reg?

 

[telectrix]

reg. is in the common sense guide to fitting downlights. a copy of which, bathroom fitters don't seem to possess. ( if joist is in the way, drill it out).

 

[Risteard]

There is a Regulation about distances between luminaires and combustible surfaces.

 

[Midwest]

Even an LED lamp or luminaire can overheat, causing it to prematurely fail. They still require suitable air circulation.

 

[Deleted member 112675]

There is a Regulation about distances between luminaires and combustible surfaces.

Which reg and what does it say? I couldn't see anything in my onsite guide 18th. Maybe its in part p somewhere?

As an aside, obvisouly it shouldn't be touching or even "very close". But is 40mm allowed or not ? I'm starting to think there is no rule about this which strikes me as odd. If there isn't how close do you dare to fit them under customer pressure etc..?

 

[Midwest]

Most of the downlights I fitted, seem to give a measurement of 75mm from joists.

 

[Pretty Mouth]

Yes that one again - been answered a millions times BUT often the answer is do what the MI say. I have the Enlite DLM982x and it doesn't specify any distances. Obvisouly I'm fitting LEDs but these cans would in theory allow a halogen.

SO, belts and braces seems to suggest 50mm but could I fit them 20mm? Touching ? If not why not? - Where is the reg?

The downlights you are fitting are ok to be covered with insulation, on the condition that only LED lamps are fitted. Check the manufacturer's instructions for exact wording and max wattage. With that in mind, I doubt a joist 20mm away would a problem if LEDs are used.

How you're supposed to prevent someone in the future changing the LEDs to halogens is anyone's guess, but you would expect the manufacturer to have considered this possibility and presumably they must be happy that it's not their problem if someone did.

 

[davesparks]

There is a Regulation about distances between luminaires and combustible surfaces.

Yes, the surfaces they illuminate, not other surfaces near to the fittings as far as I know.

 

[Deleted member 112675]

Starting to think that if pushed, you could put something non-combustable (old tile or bit of cement board) inbetween the joist and lamp. If it can be covered in insulation then one side of it lined with a slate doesn't seem contrary?

Edit: Just to add thanks for all previous replies which have been constructive....

 

[richy3333]

The minimum distance is often stated on the box or in the instructions. We had to fit some for a customer they supplied and they had to be 70mm from timber according to MI