Help! Downlights not working

StevenN80 · Apr 24, 2017

Hi All

I have 3 halogen downlights on my landing and stupidly put a 30w bulb in one when the max was supposed to be 20w.

None of the downlights on the landing now work. Could it be the transformer thats blown?

If it is the transformer could someone please advise on the transformer i would need to get to replace the one pictured in the attachment. (Cant find a direct replacement anywhere)

Thanks for any help in advance.

Cheers

[ElectriciansForums.net] Help! Downlights not working

Midwest · Apr 24, 2017

It would appear, as you've suggested, that you have overloaded your 60w transformer. You would just need to purchase a replacement, places like Screwfix have suitable transformers. You would need one suitable to mount on a flammable surface (F inside inverted triangle). What is a bit concerning, is the existing wiring to the primary connections, and the existing secondary wiring to the existing luminaires, and their 'connect-ability' to the new transformer.

Might be worth getting an electrician to have a look.

PS a new transformer would normally have overload protection, and might prevent this problem again

PPS, get the electrician to install you some nice spanking new 230v LED down lights, which don't need tiresome transformers

The Ghost · Apr 24, 2017

Rating of the transformer suggests it was not overloaded.

Taylortwocities · Apr 24, 2017

Vortigern said:
Rating of the transformer suggests it was not overloaded.

Err
Transformer rating 60VA
Lamps installed 20+20+30 = 70

Is 70 more than 60? Yes

I wonder if the other two lights still work if the 30W lamp is removed. Have you tried that @StevenN80 ??
Also.… 30W is an unusual value. 35W is more normal.

The Ghost · Apr 24, 2017

Just seeing if anyone is awake on the forum, clearly I'm not

StevenN80 · Apr 24, 2017

I did change the 30w bulb for a 20w one after the lights failed. Still doesn't work.

Would this transformer be ok to try replace it with (attached)?

Taylortwocities · Apr 24, 2017

Yes, if all lamps are no more than 20watts each.

Octopus · Apr 24, 2017

Maybe better to fit a higher rated unit ... so if you fit the wrong bulb again it won't blow!

telectrix · Apr 24, 2017

better still to fit 230V GU10s LED.

Taylortwocities · Apr 24, 2017

I think Midwest suggested that, earlier.

marc8 · Apr 24, 2017

the unit would not be fed from a switch fuse by any chance when the transformer went down could of taken out a fuse?
also not sure if those are uninsulated cables on the supply side of the transformer not in the protected case but you might want to trim them back later.

StevenN80 · Apr 25, 2017

Thanks for all the responses, much appreciated.

Could these lights have a separate switch fuse? the main fuse for the upstairs lights is ok.

Taylortwocities · Apr 25, 2017

Anything is possible. You have two options:
1. Do this properly. Buy a proper multimeter and test if you have 230v going into the transformer and 12v coming out (and arriving at the lamps)
Or
2. Go buy a new transformer, swop it and see if that fixes it. If it doesn't fix it, it means something else is wrong and you'll still need to go to option 1.

Hope this helps.

shaun1 · Apr 25, 2017

Did the 35w lamp work for any length of time before it all went off? The symbol on the transformer appears to possibly indicate a thermal fuse. This might be one that self resets after it has cooled down. Did you try the lights again after an hour or 2?

StevenN80 · Apr 26, 2017

The 35w lamp did work for a period of time before they all stopped working. Not been working for over a month now so def cooled down

I will try replacing the transformer first and hope that works.

Thanks for the help.

Help! Downlights not working

StevenN80

-

Midwest

-

The Ghost

Taylortwocities

-

The Ghost

StevenN80

-

Taylortwocities

-

Octopus

telectrix

-

Taylortwocities

-

marc8

-

StevenN80

-

Taylortwocities

-

shaun1

-

StevenN80

-

News and Offers from Sponsors

Similar threads

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

YOUR Unread Posts