Have you ever considered how many house fires have been caused by improperly installed downlights? Finding unprotected, incorrectly installed downlights is a frequent issue our inspectors encounter during Pre-Purchase building inspections. The widespread use of halogen globes can be attributed to downlight hazards in homes built prior to the 2020 phase-out.
How Do Halogen Globe Downlights Lead to Fires?
While the transformers have a low voltage, the halogen globes in downlights can reach temperatures as high as 300°C. Over time, if the downlight isn’t protected, roof insulation can shift and come into contact with the globe or the transformer (or both), which can start a fire, particularly in older homes with blown-in paper insulation.
Other flammable materials, such as dust and leaf litter, can blow into roof spaces, further increasing the fire risk associated with these downlights. Even though insulation is typically treated with a fire retardant, this retardant has a limited lifespan. The timber beams, dust, or rodent nests can also contribute to downlight hazards.
Real-Life Example:
In the first photo below, the transformer is seen in contact with the light fitting.
In the second photo below, the transformer has melted significantly. This situation was discovered during a home building inspection conducted by one of our inspectors.
How to Safeguard Your Home
This is not a DIY project. If you are concerned about possible downlight hazards we recommend you engage a professional to assess the risk. Depending on the home’s age you might be advised to replace the lighting and or insulation to prevent future risks.
Building and Energy recommends replacing any existing halogen globes with safer alternatives, such as LEDs, which do not generate the extreme heat that halogen lights do.
Ensure you hire a licensed electrical contractor for any electrical work including replacing halogen downlight fittings with new LED downlight kits.
Next Steps
If you are worried about your property, we have a trade list with licenced electricians we can recommend. To discuss your concerns, call our team at 08 6184 5624, email us at [email protected], or visit our website.
