Roof insulation over surface lights

[cludelessdiwhye]

We have led lights that sit on he surface of the ceiling (ie they are not downlights). I was wondering if it was ok to put ceiling insulation over the top of them?

The information online appears to raise concerns about downlights (giving minimum clearance for insulation due to issues associated with heat build-up). https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=XDu4L36EggI

I am aware that some downlights are rated to have insulation over them, but our surface lights don't have any kind of rating (and so I was wondering if this is because they don't need to be, because of where the heat is being generated). I am aware that there are still other considerations (eg the wiring at the back can't pass through too much insulation), but was concerned about all the bare ceiling patches in the roof).

[AlanM52]

Hi @cludelessdiwhye,

Short answer - Do not cover those LED lights with roof insulation.

Not having a rating does not imply OK to be covered, quite the opposite.

They were manufactured at a earlier date, at least prior to 2013.

If you know the make & model we should be able to sort out 'must not be covered' or 'ok to cover if LED light covers/cages are installed' and so on.

Cheers

[cludelessdiwhye]

Hi AlanM52,

We only had them installed in about 2020.

The lights are Energetic Oyster Light Ultrathin Double insulated (Tri-colour, Slim, IP54) - 181005

Regards,

Duncan

[AlanM52]

Check again they really should have a IC rating and you must somehow confirm that because with no roof insulation the electrician may have installed CA rated lights. Not a good thing and something like this should have been mentioned...'You don't have ceiling insulation but I will install lights that are safe to be covered as you may want to do the insulation thing later on...'.

LED Lights and Insulation Safety

• Safety Ratings are Key: The most important factor is the light's rating. LED lights are much cooler than older halogen lights, but they still produce heat and require proper thermal management.
• IC-F or IC4 Rating: Look for LED downlights with an IC-F or IC4 rating on the label. These are designed to be safely abutted and covered with insulation, which allows for a complete thermal barrier and improved home energy efficiency.
• "CA" Rating: A "CA" rating means the light can be abutted to insulation, but not covered. Covering it may cause the light to fail prematurely.
• Non-IC Rated Lights: For lights without an IC rating, a clearance of 50-100mm from insulation is generally recommended, or a fire safety barrier/guard must be used to maintain a safe distance.

Cheers