Sockets on lighting circuit

[littlespark]

Had a look at a job today to replace 5 x 1000W halogen floods with LED equivalent in a big agricultural shed. 4 inside, 1 outside, all high level.

The 4 inside are controlled by a 4 gang grid switch, across 2 circuits on 16A breakers.
The lights themselves have a 13A plugtop and are plugged into 13A sockets controlled by the switches.

There has been discussions before about using general purpose sockets on a lighting circuit, but the consensus seems to be, it’s alright if it’s something like a tv aerial in an attic, or whatever.
Should I leave as is, or change them to 5A plug/ sockets?

I will be looking for LED floods with same lumen output as a 1000W halogen.
Anyone got recommendations?

 

[pc1966]

I don't think the issue is a socket on lighting as such, more that a 13A socket on a 6A circuit is asking for trouble.

In your case having them on 16A for (presumably) fairly dedicated use would not seem an issue (unless they are non-RCD in areas where they may get re-used for portable stuff in wet/outdoor conditions).

 

[Pretty Mouth]

It complies with 559.5.1 (v). It is lighting, at high level, controlled by a light switch, so I wouldn't deem these to be general purpose sockets. No problem IMO, I would keep as is.

 

[pc1966]

I will be looking for LED floods with same lumen output as a 1000W halogen.
Anyone got recommendations?

Not as such. Most web searches say 100W LED is equivalent but I doubt it. You can get 150W LED that is more likely to be a match, for example:

https://www.electricalcounter.co.uk/products/Lighting/Outdoor+Lighting/Ansell+Outdoor+Lighting/Floodlighting/Floodlights/Ansell+LED+Floodlights/Aztec+Symmetrical+LED+Floodlight+150W+IP66+5000K/1179033805

 

[streamer]

It's worth remembering that all agricultural installations have to meet an IP rating, can't remember exactly off top of my head but might be IP44 so it might be worth swapping sockets for IP65 joint boxes if possible.
I've used loads of 100 watt Enlight floods from Yesss and they're pretty good. I think they do a 200 watt too but they are pricey.

 

[loz2754]

It's worth remembering that all agricultural installations have to meet an IP rating, can't remember exactly off top of my head but might be IP44 so it might be worth swapping sockets for IP65 joint boxes if possible.
I've used loads of 100 watt Enlight floods from Yesss and they're pretty good. I think they do a 200 watt too but they are pricey.

Correct, it's IP 44 minimum for all accessories. Including the plug and socket arrangement.
Also including the consumer unit etc.
I fitted 3 180 watt LED floods just before Christmas in a large barn. They were expensive but illumination was perfect.

 

[littlespark]

Fair point, @streamer concerning IP ratings.

The shed isn’t being used for much at the moment. Far half has been penned up for horses, but no electricity apart from the very high level lighting.
Near end is storage for a camper van, storage and a bit of a workshop area.

 

[telectrix]

why not stick 'em on 5A FCUs?