Warm or cool white?
Colour temperature is measured in kelvin. Around 2700K is warm and cosy – good for living rooms and bedrooms. Around 3000K is a soft, clean white that suits most kitchens and bathrooms. 4000K and above is cool and bright – fine for utility rooms and garages, but can feel clinical at home.
Fewer, better-placed lights
A classic mistake is a dense grid of downlights across the ceiling. It's usually better to place light where you need it – over worktops, along walls and above seating – and add lamps or wall lights for atmosphere. Your electrician can help plan a layout.
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Fire-rated and insulation-rated fittings
Cutting holes in a ceiling can reduce its fire resistance. Where the ceiling separates floors or forms a fire barrier, fire-rated downlights are often required. In ceilings with insulation above, fittings need to be suitable for contact with insulation. Your electrician will choose appropriate fittings.
Dimming
If you want to dim downlights, make sure the fittings are dimmable and the dimmer is compatible with LEDs. Mismatches cause flicker and buzzing.
