A term such as spotlights has appeared in construction terminology relatively recently. In addition, this is a multi-valued word used in architecture and construction, so we can say that spotlights are a unique type of lighting that must be used in case of focusing attention on a particular area of the interior. The fact is that in this case we have the opportunity to direct the stream of light to where it is needed. This allows you to create dimming zones or, conversely, more intense lighting in the room.
A bit about the merits
Spotlights are spotlights that can be installed on almost any type of ceiling, from the usual to the stretch. In the latter case, it is extremely important that the lamp is fireproof - in this case, they are. Moreover, this is a fairly economical option, so you do not need to think that because of 3-7 spotlights, you will overpay for electricity. Conventional discharge lamps consume significantly more, but they are less durable.
It will not be superfluous to note that spotlights are used today in rooms with different designs. They are in both classic and high-tech solutions. They are installed not only in residential apartments, but also in museums, shops, offices and so on. And since it’s easy enough to look after them, spotlights are simply the perfect solution. Light weight, a variety of shapes, reliability - all this contributes to the fact that spotlights are becoming more and more popular. In any case, spotlights are a whole host of obvious advantages.
A bit about the variety of spotlights
Many lighting devices of the same type, for example, LED lamps, differ significantly in design. Approximately the same situation in our case, because spotlights are:
In the first case, the lamp is located at a small distance from the thermoplastic or glass of the lamp. The disadvantage of this decision is that it is impossible to use spotlights of this type in a room with high humidity. But closed-type appliances can be installed in a bathhouse, sauna, shower, and so on, as they are devoid of a lack of open spotlights.
It will not be superfluous to note that spotlights can have a stationary and rotating element. In the first case, it is impossible to change the direction of the light ray, in the second - it is possible. Naturally, a more practical solution is where the spotlights can be guided in a way that is convenient for a person, and this is obvious. Now let's talk about the installation.
DIY spotlights
For successful installation work you will need a small set of tools. If you have never worked with an electrician, it is better to buy rubber gloves. First of all, we need spotlights, as well as a supply wire. To connect it, you need sleeves or terminals. In addition, insulation and a switch are needed. After all this is collected, you can begin to perform work.
You must understand that for the room selected lamps of the same type. In addition, there are certain requirements for the power and type of ceiling. So, suspended structures are not recommended to install spotlights with a capacity of more than 40 watts. If this rule is not observed, then the material of the suspended ceiling will become too warm, as a result of which partial structural damage may occur.
Wire selection
The power cable must be bought for a reason. For the installation of spotlights to be successful, you must correctly select the wire. Its type depends on the material of which the ceiling is made. For example, a two-core VVG-2 is best suited for drywall, but for plastic it is better to buy a fireproof wire RKGM. Another small but important detail is that the wire should be soft enough. For this, each of his veins should consist of several smaller ones, which ensures elasticity.
As for connecting the wires and connecting them to the spotlights, so-called terminal blocks are sold for this. But the option of a bolted connection is not ideal, since at the contact point, the wires often begin to carbonize due to the oxidative reaction. Where the best solution would be the acquisition of tinned copper sleeves.
About planning
Many people begin to plan the placement of spotlights already after the ceiling was sheathed. We can say with confidence that this is not the best solution from both an aesthetic and economic point of view. Therefore, try to plan the placement of fixtures in advance. If the ceiling is done by specialists, then all that remains for you to do is to indicate the places where the future spotlight will be located. However, some requirements must be observed. For example, the distance between the lamps should be about a meter, and between the spotlights and the wall - 60 cm. Also pay attention to the presence of chandeliers and lamps on the walls.
It is extremely important to ensure that the spotlights are not superfluous or, conversely, insufficient, so they do not need to be placed symmetrically. Here you can give free rein to your imagination. It is permissible to stagger or any other solution that, in your opinion, will be appropriate. But all this must be done taking into account safety rules.
Spotting holes
And now our ceiling is completely sheathed, and planning has long been over. If you notice that the hole for the lamp had to be in place of the drywall fasteners, then it must be moved to the middle of the sheet. This will slightly change the appearance, but nowhere to go.
It is better to drill holes using a special crown for working on wood. She often makes recesses for sockets, so you probably came across such a tool. This solution is good because the hole is perfectly flat, and the spotlights fit into it remarkably. This allows you to effectively and beautifully place them. It should be understood that the diameter of the hole is selected depending on the size of the device.
If the spotlights will be significantly larger or smaller than the holes, then you will have to come up with additional designs to hold them or expand the hole. And most importantly - the drilled hole cannot be moved, remember this.
We install spotlights with our own hands
After the corresponding holes have been made and the loops of the pre-laid cable have been extended, you can proceed to the main part of the installation. First of all, it is necessary to disconnect the supply wire. This is solely for safe operation. Even if you are confident in yourself, it is better to play it safe and turn it off.
Loops of a cable need to be unbent and exposed. To connect each spotlight, small wiring no longer than 10-15 centimeters is used. Therefore, we need to bare exactly so much wire. The so-called leashes are fixed using terminals to the fixtures, and the second wire is connected to the power cable. To facilitate the work on the lamp there is a special marking. The letter L means that this is a phase, H is zero, and PE is grounding. The latter, by the way, may not be. In principle, the spotlights are installed with their own hands, it remains only to fix it.
Conclusion
Usually, to effectively hold the lamp, a bracket is used on which the spotlights are held. At the same time, the lamps are firmly fixed and held by a metal bracket. Make sure that the power cable does not get caught. At this stage, we can assume that the work is completed, it remains only to connect the supply wire. As you can see, spotlights are very interesting and effective. This is also indicated by consumer feedback. You may notice that many people note high durability and pleasant light. Attractive appearance is what spotlights are. Consumer reviews more than once focused on this very moment. Do not forget about this when choosing fixtures, and your interior will be perfect.