Ovia Lighting

Colour temperature is a measurement of appearance. Measured in Kelvins, the lower the rating, the warmer the light appears. Choosing the right temperature can have a dramatic effect on a room.

2700K - Extra Warm White

Similar to a traditional incandescent light bulb or halogen. It has a more orange and warmer tone, with a ‘soft white’ appearance. Ideal for living rooms.

3000K - Warm White

Clearer, but still quite warm. This is the ‘new norm’ for general lighting and is the most popular option. If you’re unsure I’d recommend trying this one.

4000K - Cool White

Clearer, whiter and crisp; used in commercial locations including supermarkets. Cool white appears brighter than warm white as the LED is covered in less phosphor. It can make a room appear cold and clinical but used correctly (white walls etc) it can make a room appear cleaner and modern.

More information about colour temperatures.

The sub-brand of a manufacturer that groups collections of products together.

We cater for a wide range of cut out sizes from the infinitesimally tiny to the big ginormous.

If you're replacing existing downlights, its best to measure the existing hole sizes and ensure your new downlights will fit. 

We also stock hole converter plates for oversized holes.

If you're replacing existing downlights, its best to measure the existing hole sizes and ensure your new downlights will fit.

Check the dimensions tab within the product listing for the exact hole size of each downlight.

CRI stands for Colour Rendering Index. It is a measurement of how well a light source can render the true colour of an object compared to natural light.

Rated out of 100, with an open flame or sunlight being a perfect 100. A light with 90 CRI and above would be classed as having high CRI, while 80 CRI is the standard for LEDs.

Read more about high CRI.

Warm white, cool white, what ever you prefer. More info about colour temperatures here.

Recessed downlights are available in different types such as fixed, adjustable and bathroom (IP65).

Fixed downlights shine the light directly downards.  Adjustable downlights allow you to redirect the angle of light onto a specific object or area.

IP65 downlights are water resistant and suitable for use in bathroom zones 1 & 2. Most integrated LED downlights are IP65 rated as standard. This means they can be used anywhere including kitchens and living rooms etc.

Fixed GU10 downlights don't offer any resistance to water, their IP rating is usually IP20. They have no seal and cost less.

More information about downlight types.

Selecting the appropriate color or finish for your lights and switches is key to creating a unified and attractive interior. Aim to match the finish of your downlights with other elements like switches and sockets. The matt white finish is especially popular for downlights as it seamlessly merges with white ceilings. More info here.

AC standards for alternating current and DC standards for direct current.

Mains voltage is 230V AC and has a tolerance of 10%, some products are 220V or 240V AC which means they can be classed as mains voltage.

DC voltages usually require an LED driver to convert the mains voltage AC into low voltage DC. Popular DC voltages are 12V or 24V DC.

IP (International or Ingress Protection) defines a products level of resistance to dust and moisture. The first digit is for dust and the second digit is for moisture.

Anything higher than IP44 can be used in bathroom zones 1 and 2. IP44 is splash proof and resistance to particles larger than 1mm.

An IP65 rating offers a higher resistance to moisture and is generally used outdoors. IP65 is usually specified for bathroom downlights but according to the Building Regulations, IP44 provides adequate protection.

An IP68 rating is fully water resistant and can be submersed in water, up to 1M in depth.