LIGHTING
WORRIED ABOUT CONDENSATION?
Lithium grease: This is the general solution to stop any small amounts of water tripping in 240V circuits. We’ ve concluded that smearing lithium grease into the bulb holder and on the connectors of the bulb can act as a seal to prevent water produced by condensation from making contact with the bulb holder. This is particularly effective for GU10 bulb holders which mimic a cup or bowl. It can also be used outside the fittings to provide further protection to a seal.
A very common occurrence in outdoor lights installed in the UK is, you guessed it, condensation. As a lighting company, supplying professional outdoor lighting, we usually get asked various questions about condensation and how it can be prevented.
Condensation is usually caused by heat generated by the lamp and a fluctuating temperature due to the cooler air outside creating moisture within part of the fitting. A common misconception is that this will always affect the life or function of the fitting and is caused by the product not being weatherproof. Most of the time, there’ s no need to panic! It’ s important to say that condensation doesn’ t occur in ALL outdoor lights, which is why it can be worrying when noticed in a small number of fittings. This article will lay out our thoughts and findings based on 15 + years of supplying outdoor and garden lighting to help you understand how this can be fixed or avoided. Checking up on your outdoor lights throughout the year, especially with the inconsistent UK weather, is highly advised. Most lights have a built-in method to alleviate moisture build-up, such as a drainage hole. Predrilled holes for screws can also act as secondary drainage holes. Sensor components, such as PIR( motion sensors) and photocell( dusk-to-dawn), may show signs of condensation but this usually will not affect their function.
During a‘ condensation check’, it’ s good to check that all parts of the lights are intact, sealed and fastened securely where applicable. In some cases, condensation will still occur, but there are things you can do.
‘ So, what can I do to prevent this?’
Silica gel: A packet of silica gel( such as the ones received with a pair of shoes) can be placed within the light. All Lumena spotlights are provided with 1 or more packs of silica gel. This absorbs any moisture inside the fitting, preventing condensation. When these appear full, change to a new pack.
Changing lamps: when time comes to replace a lamp, or even when initially installing the lamp it’ s best to do this on a dry day to prevent any moisture entering the light fitting.
Check for damage: With outdoor lights and components( e. g. photocell or PIR sensors), it’ s important to check that watertight seals are intact and not damaged. If they are, the condensation build-up can aggravate. Any good manufacturer will hold spares of these components.
If a system or light is acting unusually or tripping, condensation may not be the only persisting problem. This could be a result of loose or non-watertight connections elsewhere in the cable run. Magic Gel is highly recommended for creating an IP68 cable connection within junction boxes. If you have any concerns, you can consult a reputable lighting supplier first before hiring an electrician.
To read more about IP Ratings and how they apply to lighting products, scan this QR code.
For enquiries, please contact sales @ lumenalights. com or call us today at
01327 871161.
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