Light fitting (luminaria, light fixture)

What a light fitting is

In Spain the word luminaria means the whole appliance that gives light, not just the bulb. The bulb or LED module is the lamp (lámpara); the light fitting (light fixture in the US) is what holds it, connects it to the mains, protects it and directs its light where you need it.

Parts of a light fitting

• Housing or body: metal or plastic, fixed to the ceiling, wall or floor.
• Diffuser or reflector: spreads the light and prevents glare.
• Lampholder or LED module: where the light source sits.
• Driver: adapts the current in LED fittings and in old fluorescent tubes.
• Terminals: where the electrician connects live, neutral and, on a Class I metal fitting, the earth (ground) wire.

Common types

Recessed downlights, flush ceiling lights (plafones), wall lights, pendants and linear battens. Outdoors and in damp areas you need a sealed fitting with a suitable IP rating: an indoor fitting is not right for a terrace or a garage.

What to check when buying

• Light output in lumens, not watts.
• Colour (color) temperature in kelvin: warm for bedrooms, neutral for kitchens and work areas.
• If it is dimmable, a compatible dimmer.
• The weight: a large fitting may need a reinforced fixing.

Fitting it

The circuit must be switched off at the consumer unit, checked for voltage and the earth connected where the fitting has one. As a guide, fitting costs 30 to 50 euros plus VAT per light. See light fitting installation in Seville, Spain.