Double Insulated Lighting
All the fittings in this category are class 2 Double Insulated and are suitable for installation in properties where there is no earth wire. For more information about Double Insulated lighting please scroll down and read our help guide below.
Double Insulated Lighting Help Guide
What is double insulated lighting?
Double Insulated Lights (Also known as Class 2) are lights which don't require an earth wire. Most modern homes and offices are earthed, this means should a fault develop the appliance or light it will protect against damage or electric shock. Older properties however, usually those built before or during the 1960's, often are not earthed and therefore either need to be rewired by electricians or you must use double insulated fittings which can safely be installed without an Earth.
What makes a double insulated (Class 2) light safer?
Simply put a double insulated light usually has either 2 layers of insulating material covering live parts (the cables etc) or has reinforced insulation. This means should a fault or problem occur the extra insulating material prevents the light fitting from becoming live and minimises the risk of electric shock.
Is there an alternative to using double insulated lighting?
Unfortunately if the property is not earthed then double insulated lighting must be used. The only alternative is to have electricians re-wire your home or business premises. A re-wire basically replaces some or all of the wiring of your house. Although it can cost more than simply buying double insulated fittings it is important to balance the cost of a re-wire against any future problems old wiring can cause. If your wiring is out dated it can become unsafe and it is also more costly and time consuming to identify and fix faults that may occur.
How do I know if a fitting is double insulated?
The vast majority of light fittings are known as class 1 which means they require an earth wire. Fittings which don't require an earth wire will specifically mention they are class 2/double insulated. You can also look out for the double insulated logo which is a black box inside a black box (as shown at the top of this page). If a fitting doesn't mention what class it is, chances are it will be a standard class 1 fitting and not suitable for installation without an earth wire.
Where can I find more information about double insulated lighting?
A quick internet search for "Double Insulated Lights" or "Properties without an Earth" will bring up more information. If you are unsure if all or part of your property is without an earth we recommend contacting an electrician who will be able to advise you further. For If you require any further information on our range of double insulated fittings please feel free to contact us.