When are fire rated downlights required?

When considering the lighting options in your home, downlights are a popular choice. Providing a stylish and sleek look, with an atmospheric effect, downlights make a great lighting solution for the bathroom, kitchen, and other rooms in the house. However, as with many appliances, there are some downlights which are simply unsafe; non-fire-rated lights are a risk to you and your home. Follow this handy guide to find out how, when, and why fire-rated downlights are required.

What are fire-rated downlights?

A fire-rated downlight will slow the spread of fire compared to non-fire rated downlights. When installing lighting into the home, particularly downlights, it occurs that a hole must be cut into the ceiling. Perhaps without your knowledge, this hole greatly impacts the fire safety of your home. Through this hole, fire can spread much more quickly when compared with a solid ceiling. So, how does a fire-rated downlight prevent this? With an intumescent coating around the fitting of the light, it is capable of blocking the hole that has been cut for it. If a fire were to occur, the coating would expand quickly, thus preventing the spread of fire for anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes.

When are fire-rated downlights required?

Every downlight, whether a kitchen, bathroom or living room downlight, should be fire rated. This is for the safety of yourself, your family, and your home. Arrow downlights are modern and fashionable, as well as providing a high level of fire protection, making them perfect for any home improvement project. Investing in fire-rated lights, when compared with non-fire rated, shows a definite improvement in slowing the spread of fire through the home.

Why are fire rated downlights required?

The primary purpose of fire-rated downlights is safety. By discussing your needs with a fire-rated downlight supplier, they can advise on the best ones for you. Fire-rated downlights are available in different IP ratings, depending on their position in the house, e.g. kitchen downlights may require a higher IP rating than bathroom downlights owing to the higher risk of fire in the kitchen. The two numbers in an IP rating pertain to two different types of protection; the first number denotes the level of protection against solid objects and the second number denotes the level of protection against liquids.

Why Arrow Electrical?

By investing in fire-rated downlights from Arrow Electrical, you can choose from a wide range of products such as GU10 downlights. We offer a comprehensive service and are always happy to assist you in making your decision. With years of experience behind us and a passion for both lighting and fire safety, we want you to love your new lights and have the peace of mind that a fire rating provides. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you light your home.

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