Change Old Brass Downlights

RDB85 · Jun 14, 2022

I’m looking to change some old brass downlights. I was just after some advice. Whether they can be replaced or not. The actual lights are cemented into the ceiling as it’s a loft extension that was done 20 years ago.

I’m just hoping to update them to something more modern if possible.

James · Jun 14, 2022

Probably just paint or a bit of filler you are seeing.
TURN OFF POWER, then.
use a craft knife to break the bond between fitting and ceiling
then pull down firmly
watch out for the springs when you pull it clear of the hole, they hurt if they bash your fingers!!!

Dartlec · Jun 14, 2022

If the hole ends up too big for standard downlights, and you don't like the cover plate type, I used these recently which are cheap and fit nicely in a hole 100-120mm

[ElectriciansForums.net] Change Old Brass Downlights

The traditional cover plate type never look that nice to me, but they are a simple fix to cover large or messy holes without replastering.

RDB85 · Jun 14, 2022

I will have a look to see how easy they would be to remove. The springs are lethal. Painting then would not be a bad idea either. It’s s shame that you can’t buy a cover that goes over it to make it a little more modern.

timhoward · Jun 14, 2022

I was about to post a similar thing - before you start find some units the right size and some oversize ones - Toolstation have saved me before after I slipped and lost a chunk of ceiling! That one above looks nice.

These can be handy - hole sizes of 100-150mm for the 3 models.

Aurora Slim-Fit Round Low Profile LED Downlight

• Warm white 3000K, cool white 4000K• Pre-wired 500mm 2 core cable• Non dimmable• Average life 25000 hours• 120° beamThe Enlite range of Slim-Fit™ low profile downlights are engineered to deliver superior light output and uniformity utilising the latest edge-lit LED technology. 6W: Diameter...

www.toolstation.com

RDB85 · Jun 14, 2022

Thanks for the help and advice. I will have a look at how easy it is to remove the old fitting. As I say it’s too bad that you can’t buy covers.

brianmoooore · Jun 14, 2022

You can see the 'hinge' of one of the retaining springs in your pic. Push the little coils inwards with the blade of a small screwdriver, and off off the little pegs they sit on.
Springs will fly off, never to be seen again, and the old fitting will fall out once any paint seal is broken.

Jim_e_Jib · Jun 14, 2022

brianmoooore said:
You can see the 'hinge' of one of the retaining springs in your pic. Push the little coils inwards with the blade of a small screwdriver, and off off the little pegs they sit on.
Springs will fly off, never to be seen again, and the old fitting will fall out once any paint seal is broken.

To land neatly on the terminals of the unenclosed 5amp junction box feeding the lights...? At least that's what would happen if I tried it