Replacing GU10 with LEDs - Too Small

Krav

Hello,

I am in the process of replacing all GU10 bulbs but the downlights (which are fire-rated) look like these and standard LED GU10 lights (54mm lengths) are too short. Looks like they need to be 75mm to fit but they are difficult to find and more expensive.

The question is can I cut through the lamp holder (black plastic) to get them to slip in? Or is this crazy? I have 13 of these to fit so want it to be simple if possible. The existing one is shown (longer) with an example halogen for illustration purposes (LED is the same size). It will not squeeze in - I need another inch.

Note that the downlights are already fitted - I just have this spare one which is exactly the same. I am only changing the bulbs.

Mankysteve

As the 75mm are energy saving bulbs already I just wouldn't bother changing the bulbs. I wouldnt go cutting the fixture as the bulb wont sit flush in the fitting it will be ugly and possibly cause overheating.

Krav

That is what I was worried about. I did invest in energy saving bulbs when these were fitted years ago - just that they take a while to warm up in the kitchen so would have liked to have used LEDs.

flashg67

Can't tell fully from the photo, but does the plastic shroud just support the bulb, or is it part of the mounting to keep the bulb in the fitting - mine have round 'spring' clips that stop the bulb dropping through? From the photo, it looks like the plastic bit would only work with, or is only for use with, the longer CFL low energy bulbs that you currently have.

If yours use the spring clips, I can't see why you couldn't remove or trim the plastic bit and use the spring clip which doesn't 'secure' the bulb as such, just stops it dropping through the fitting. Unless someone pokes the bulbs for some reason, you won't be able to tell?

You have the spare to practice with......!

Krav

The plastic shroud does not support the bulb, it seems to be like a protective casing to help make it easier to fit a bulb. I cannot detach it from the base though but can possibly cut it with some metal scissors and trim it. It will just look a bit ugly.