Good downlighting is mostly about layout: the right number of fittings, in the right places, with the right colour and dimming. We install new LED downlights and swap out old halogens in homes across the Inner West and Sydney.
Call 0421 772 661 with the rooms you want done. We can quote from photos for simple swaps, or look at the ceiling first for new layouts.
There are two kinds of downlight job. A replacement takes out existing fittings, often old 12V halogens with a transformer sitting in the ceiling, and puts LED fittings in the same holes, sometimes with a trim to cover an oversized cut-out. A new installation means planning positions, cutting the ceiling, running cable from a switch and a supply point, and connecting each fitting.
Either way, the job happens partly in the roof space. We check what is up there: insulation that has to be kept clear of or can sit over the fitting depending on its rating, old cabling, and access for running new circuits. Halogen transformers are removed rather than left buried in the insulation. If you are still deciding on fittings, our LED downlight buying guide explains cut-out sizes, beam angles and colour temperature, and LED vs halogen downlights covers why the swap is worth doing.
Removing hot halogen lamps and transformers and fitting integrated LED downlights, usually in the same cut-out.
Planning a grid that lights benches and walkways evenly rather than leaving dark corners and glare spots.
Matching LED fittings to a compatible dimmer so lights don't flicker, buzz or switch off at low settings. See dimmer switch installation.
Choosing fittings suited to damp areas or outdoor soffits, and positioning them clear of the shower zones.
Splitting a big room into separately switched zones, or adding two-way switching at a hallway or stair.
Cabling for downlights while ceilings are open, then fitting off once the plasterer and painter have finished.
The number of lights is the obvious factor, but access drives the cost just as much. A single-storey house with a roomy roof space is quick to work in. A terrace with a low, tight roof, a top-floor apartment with a concrete slab above, or a ground-floor room under an upper storey with no ceiling access takes longer and may need a different approach, such as surface-mounted fittings or cabling chased in from below.
Other variables are whether you're reusing holes or cutting new ones, how many switching zones you want, the type of dimmer, whether you supply the fittings, and any patching. Our downlight installation cost guide walks through these factors without the guesswork.
Many Federation cottages and Victorian terraces still have lath-and-plaster or decorative pressed-metal ceilings. These don't take kindly to a row of new holes, and some owners would rather keep the ceiling intact and use pendants or wall lights instead. Where downlights do suit, we check ceiling condition and joist positions before cutting.
Older roof spaces can also contain rubber-insulated or cloth-covered cable. If we find wiring that isn't safe to extend, we tell you before adding load to it, because new lights connected to a failing circuit don't solve anything.
Apartments bring a different set of limits. A concrete ceiling slab usually means a suspended plasterboard ceiling is needed before recessed fittings are possible, and strata may want to know about any work that touches common property. In warehouse conversions with high or raked ceilings, track lighting or pendants are often a better match than a field of downlights.
You get a written quote showing the number of fittings, switching and any extras. On the day we protect floors and furniture, mark out positions, cut cleanly and keep dust down. Once connected, every circuit is tested to AS/NZS 3000, smoke alarm positions are checked so new fittings don't crowd them, and we lodge a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work where the work requires one.
Often yes. Many LED fittings suit common halogen cut-outs, and where the hole is larger we can use a fitting with a wider trim. We confirm the size before you buy.
Integrated LED downlights run from their own driver, so the old halogen transformers are taken out rather than left in the ceiling.
It depends on the fitting's rating. Some are designed to be covered, others need clearance. We check the rating and set the insulation correctly.
Usually the dimmer and the LED driver aren't compatible. We match them up, and our guide to dimmer switches buzzing with LEDs explains the common causes.
Yes. Send us the model so we can check it suits the ceiling, the insulation and any dimmer you plan to use.
NSW Electrical Contractor Licence 332956C · Fully insured · Since 2016 · Based in Hurlstone Park
Excellent electrician Blue Link Electrical was honest, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer my questions The work was completed quickly without rushing and everything works perfectly Will be using them
Very professional and reliable service. Blue Link Electrical were punctual, friendly, and knew exactly what they were doing. The job was completed to a high standard and the place was left clean. Highly recommend to anyone needing electrical work.
Can't fault the service from Blue Link Electrical From first contact to job completion everything was smooth and professional Quality workmanship and great attention to detail. One of the best trades experiences I've had. Make sure you do them slowly
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