Adam-the-Kiwi wrote:

Hi all,

We're putting lighting into an existing loft conversion. The ceiling is
pretty low so we had hoped to put in recessed spots. The rooms are not
very big and won't need a huge amount of lighting. Without thinking
about the consequences, we were in one of the sheds and decided to buy
mains halogens (GU10s, I believe) - yes, I now know the folly.

To overcome some of the problems associated, we were thinking about
replacing the bulbs with GU10 CFLs - less light shouldn't be a problem
and we're hoping they'll be much better in terms of efficiency and the
heat they throw into the loft proper. We've also looked at LEDs, but
these don't seem to be as good a solution. We were planning on putting
earthenware flowerpots, inverted, above the lights to keep the
insulation above them away from the heat.

Normally we're quite good about keeping receipts, but the ones for the
spots seem to have eluded us. Given that we are unlikely to be able to
exchange them (although they are still in packaging) is there a better
solution? Indeed, what would be the ideal solution?

Thanks - Adam


You have almost the entire range of ranges of lighting to choose from,
not sure what you want specifically. I agree the halogens would be an
unideal choice.

CFLs are a good option as long as you use decent quality bulbs. Not all
are equal by any means. And be aware the published power equivalances
are not entirely realistic.

Retrofit CFL spotlight bulbs may be larger than the originals. LEDs I
dont recommend.


NT