Can I replace my own downlights in New Zealand?
Yes, under the NZECP 51:2004 Code of Practice, homeowners in New Zealand are permitted to perform limited electrical work on their own homes, which includes replacing an existing downlight fitting. However, this work must be performed with the power safely disconnected at the switchboard. For any new wiring, circuit installation, or if you are in any doubt, a licensed electrician is required. Low voltage (12V) LED downlights still connect to your home’s 230V wiring via a driver, which is a key reason for caution.
Why is CRI 90+ important for my LED downlights?
CRI (Colour Rendering Index) measures how accurately a light source reveals the true colours of objects. An LED downlight with a CRI of 90 or higher provides a high-quality light that displays colours more vibrantly and naturally. Choosing a lower CRI (e.g., CRI 80) can result in colours appearing dull or ‘washed out’—a disappointing result, especially when replacing an old incandescent bulb that had a very high CRI. For the best visual result, always select CRI 90+ LEDs.
Where can I find the official safety rules for electrical work in New Zealand?
The official rules for homeowner electrical work are outlined by WorkSafe New Zealand in the ‘New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Home-owner/Occupier’s Electrical Wiring Work in Domestic Installations (NZECP 51:2004)’. This document details the specific tasks homeowners can legally perform and includes crucial safety instructions, such as always switching off the circuit breaker before starting any work. The code can be accessed on the WorkSafe NZ website.
Download ECP 51 PDF – NEW ZEALAND ELECTRICAL CODE OF PRACTICE FOR HOMEOWNER/OCCUPIER’S ELECTRICAL WIRING WORK IN DOMESTIC INSTALLATIONS
ECP 51 – New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Homeowner/Occupier’s Electrical Wiring Work in Domestic Installations (NZECP 51:2004)
If you are the owner of a domestic electrical installation that is for your own private use, you can do your own electrical wiring work. If you do not have an appropriate electrical qualification, and you are planning to carry out electrical wiring work, you are required by law to do the work “in a workmanlike manner”, in accordance with this Code, without payment or reward. Only a licensed electrical worker can carry out work on another person’s home or do work for payment or reward.
How do I safely replace a downlight?
The most critical step is to ensure the power is completely off. Turn off the main switch and the circuit breaker for the specific light at your home’s switchboard. Once confirmed off with a voltage tester, you can proceed with replacing the fitting. Remember to follow manufacturer instructions and be aware of Insulation Contact (IC) ratings for safe installation in ceilings. If you are unsure at any point, do not proceed and contact a licensed electrician.
Is there a price difference between CRI 80 and CRI 90+ LED downlights?
Often, there is little to no price difference between downlights with a poor CRI (around 80) and those with a high CRI (90+). The quality of light, however, is significantly different. By choosing a high CRI light, you can ensure a superior aesthetic and a more accurate representation of colours in your home for a very similar cost.
How can I reduce my power bill?
Visit Money Hub. Use their spreadsheet to compare the Power Company Plans and costs. Select the best plan to reduce your costs. Read the article on Stuff by MoneyHub Founder
Christopher Walsh.
How to reduce the cost of my power bill in 5 minutes?
A smart DIY solution! Replace the inefficient incandescent bulbs with Efficient (halogena) bulbs. 30percent power savings and enjoy the same quality of lighting as the Incandescent bulbs (CRI 100).
What is the cost for an Electrician to install LED Bulbs or Downlights?
Money Hub provides a list of prices for various Electricians. Select a Local electrician or you could be paying a Minimun Fee of more than $115+GST per hour for the Electrician to crawl through Auckland’s traffic.
Can I install LED bulbs to reduce my power bill?
Yes. But beware that your quality of light will be reduced from “Colour Rendering Index 100″ to “CRI 90“. Fitting LED Bulbs in passage-ways, the garage and outside (where quality of light is not so important) is a good idea. Keeping the existing down-light fittings will enable you to fit new LED Bulbs when the technology advances and LED Bulbs with a “CRI 100” becocome available.