Low voltage lighting and transformers

[llama]

I am considering installing four low voltage downlights in my kitchen ceiling. The thing is I'm not sure which wattage of light fitting/bulb to buy as I'm not sure what level of brightness the fittings will give in the room once fitted.

I was thinking of buying four 50w fittings, four 50w bulbs and two 105w transformers. If I found the 50w bulbs to be too bright and changed them for 35w would I need to change the transformers too?

Also, is there a general rule of thumb for the amount of lights or bulb wattage per square metre?

Many thanks in advance.

 

[Lectrician]

You can use smaller lamps usually (many electronic transformers also have a minimum wattage).

Most 105va trannys have a range from 35-105va, so even with only 2 20watt lamps on it, it would be fine.

What size room do you have?? A room 3 x 3 lit by 4 50w downlights is usually fine. BUT i would recommend under cupboard lights for task lighting (the downlights can cast shadows.)

 

[mrscalex]

You might want to consider 1 transformer per fitting. They are only about a fiver each and just sit loose inside the ceiling. I took that advice from this forum and my local electrical store.

 

[llama]

Thanks for your replies chaps. The room is 4m x 3m and has good under cupboard lights fitted. By the sounds of things I would get away with four 50w but I may go for six 35w to give a better spread of light. Thanks again.