My lights keep switching themselves off!!

At first they only went off for a second or two before coming back on, but now when they go off I have to manually switch them off and back on at the socket.

Anyone care to guess what's wrong?

Thanks, Nick.

sounds like the tranformer is overheating or shorting out

regards mitch

Thanks Mitch.

Does anyone know how much a new transformer is and where I can get one from?

Nick.

I've had probs with halogens before. Mine were caused by poor contacts at the bulbholder, which blued/burnt the bulbholder contacts, and eventually turned the light off.
When yours go off, is it the whole set, or just one?
You could still be looking at contact problems, as some transformers had overvolting protection fitted, so as to switch off when one bulb went.
My advice would be to check ALL bulbholders first for signs of burning/blueing. It's not that easy to see, and can often be seen better by removing the bulb, and looking at the contact pins.
New transformers are available in various sizes, next day delivery, from Screwfix, 0500 414141
Alcazar

Alcazar

All the lights go off at the same time (very irritating when it's dark and you're in the shower :rolleyes::rolleyes::D:D:D:D

I'm guessing at the transformer. Oh well, of to give Screfix a call....

Nick.

Nick,

Transformer = Inverter if your technically minded ;)

Last one I bought was about 20 quid for a 105W version. They're available at loads of places, even B and Q (if you must :))

if your technically minded

I can wire a plug. Does that count? :D:D:D

How many light/inverters?????? is it all from a switch or dimmer??? Is the Inverter a electric type or the old "Can of coke" ???? is there a lot of space around the inverter???


not from Ikea are they???!!!!

Bulb holders tend to be rubbish on most.

1. 4 lights
2. Switch
3. Don't know, I haven't looked in the loft yet!
4. Don't know, I haven't looked in the loft yet!
5. No idea where they are from, they were already there when I moved in!

As I said, my electrical knowledge is not the best....Still, I'm sure I'll work it out over the weekend :rolleyes::rolleyes:

Nick

Its not you who upgrades the "Bright button" as part of the PPP is it??

It could be overload protection on the transformer kicking in, as has been mentioned. I've just separate transformers for each bulb now, which is overkill but means I can put whatever wattage bulb in each lamp I like (within reason)

Have a look to see your wiring configuration, then my best guess would be to get another transformer with a higher rating than the one you're currently using. If you're using 4 bulbs off one, then aim for well over 100w. (4x20w=80W, 4x30W=120W, 4x50W=200W!)

Cheers,
Nick.

I've had this problem & it was an overheating transformer.

If the transformer is in the loft, then make sure it is above the insulation where it won't get as warm.

Or better still, do what I did and change the units to mains halogen - no transformer & no overheating :) Mine were in a roof cavity with some central heating pipes (all put in by the previous owner) so I couldn't easily cool the transformer.

Screwfix (http://www.screwfix.com/app/sfd/cat/cat.jsp;jsessionid=BC0UHYDQCTIX5CJO2C3CJ0Q?cId=101 162&ts=83518) have a good range - I've got these (http://www.screwfix.com/app/sfd/cat/pro.jsp?ts=83526&id=18229) in my kitchen.

Al