A downlight is a type of lighting fixture that is installed in a hollow opening in the ceiling. The light is emitted downwards in a narrow beam in an appearance similar to the spotlight. Another common name for a downlight is recessed lighting. Modern downlights are always energy-efficient LED downlights.

When should you use a downlight?

A downlight is an answer when you want to:

• Save space in low-ceiling areas because they don't protrude down from the ceiling like pendant lights or chandeliers.
• Install tasked lighting - they provide focused lighting for kitchens or workspaces.
• Create zoning in your home with the help of lighting.
• When you are looking for an even, ambient type of lighting instead of one source of light. This can be achieved by installing multiple sources of lighting in one room.

Aesthetically, downlights can create numerous effects in the room, including focused lighting, ambient lighting, shadowing, and even layered lighting. They create a modern and minimalistic look for a modern space.

When not to use a downlight?

Do not use LED downlights if you:

• Are you looking for soft, diffused lighting (like a cozy living room or bedroom)? Downlights will not create this effect.
• Are trying to avoid strong shadows.
• Have a home with significant and complicated ceiling insulation. This insulation can be disrupted if you are trying to install a downlight.

What are the pros and cons of downlights?

Advantages of downlights:

• Downlights save space in rooms with low ceilings.
• They are versatile and can be installed for ambient, task, or accent lighting.
• Modern LED downlights are energy-efficient

Disadvantages of downlights:

• Downlight fixtures can be more difficult to install compared to traditional surface-mounted fixtures.
• Most downlights are fixed in one place, so adjusting them after installation is impossible.

Some of these disadvantages are sold by different designs of LED downlights.

Can I install downlights outside?

Yes, it is possible to install downlights outside as exterior downlights are a thing. One of the most common uses of exterior downlights is in the soffits or eaves of a house. These downlights can illuminate pathways, entrances, or the home's facade. Downlights are also used in patios and porches.

What is the difference between a downlight and a spotlight?

A downlight is installed directly into the ceiling, while the spotlight is fixed into the wall. A spotlight does not give the same narrow light effect as a downlight does. Instead, it offers a focused and directed beam of light. that is designed to highlight or "spot" a particular area or object. Instead of ambient lighting, it is used for accent lighting.

Are downlights and recessed lights the same?

Is the downlight a ceiling light?

Yes, a downlight is a type of ceiling light. Specifically, it's a light fixture installed into a hollow opening in a ceiling so that most of the fixture is recessed above the ceiling line. When the downlight is turned on, it emits light downwards. However, not all ceiling lights are downlights. Ceiling lights encompass various fixtures, including pendant lights, chandeliers, flush mounts, etc. LED Downlights require a larger hole when installed compared to other ceiling lights.

How many downlights should I use per room?

You should choose one LED downlight per 1.4m2 of coverage for a standard ceiling height.

What types of downlights are available at NNC?

Downlights available at NNC include:

• Commercial downlights for commercial spaces by Aerolux. These LED downlights are designed with size and scale of commercial spaces in mind.

• Surface mount downlights that are mounted directly onto the surface of the ceiling instead of being installed into a hollow opening. These downlights do not require a cutout for installation, so they are easier to install.

• Retrofit downlights are designed to replace old lighting fixtures seamlessly.

• Slim downlights are designed to fit in spaces with limited ceiling clearance. 

• Switchable downlights, also known as "color temperature selectable" or "CCT (Correlated Color Temperature) switchable" downlights, are LED downlights that allow users to choose between different color temperatures.