How to Choose the Right Downlight for Your Ceiling
A step-by-step guide to selecting downlights based on cut-out size, lamp type, colour temperature and IP rating for South African homes and offices.
Measure your ceiling cut-out
Use a tape measure to check the diameter of the existing hole in your ceiling. Common South African cut-out sizes are 64mm, 70mm, 75mm, 90mm, and 110mm. If you are installing in a new ceiling, decide on a cut-out size before drilling — 70mm is the most versatile.
Choose your lamp type
GU10 is the most common lamp type for residential downlights in South Africa. It uses a twist-and-lock fitting and is available in LED (5–7W) versions. Integrated LED downlights have the LED built in and cannot be re-lamped.
Select your colour temperature
Warm white (3000K) creates a cosy, relaxed atmosphere for bedrooms and living rooms. Cool white (4000K) is bright and clean, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and workspaces. Daylight (6000K) is the brightest option and suits offices, garages and commercial areas.
Check the IP rating
For standard rooms, IP20 is sufficient. For bathrooms and wet areas, choose a downlight rated IP44 or higher. In shower zones, IP65 is required. The IP rating is printed on the product box and listed in the specifications on our website.