Fire Rated Downlights

LED Fire Rated GU10 Downlights

Most of our fire rated downlights take a standard GU10 lamp, which means you can swap in any GU10 LED bulb you like. That gives you full control over colour temperature, from warm white (2700K to 3000K) through to cool white (6000K), and you can choose dimmable or non-dimmable bulbs to suit your circuit. Typical wattages run from 4.5w to 10w, with most standard GU10 fittings cutting out at a 70mm ceiling hole.

If you want everything in one box, we stock fire rated downlights supplied with a GU10 bulb included. These are a solid option for quick retrofits or when you want a guaranteed colour temperature match across a whole room. Check out our GU10 LED bulbs if you need to stock up on replacement lamps separately.

IP65 Fire Rated Downlights for Bathrooms

IP65 means the fitting is fully dust-tight and protected against water jets, which is the minimum rating required for Zone 1 bathroom installations (directly above or around the bath and shower). Our IP65 fire rated downlights combine that ingress protection with 60-minute fire integrity, so you tick both boxes in one fitting.

The 8w CCT IP65 options are particularly popular with installers because the colour temperature is switchable between warm white (3000K), natural white (4000K) and cool white (6000K) at the fitting itself, before you commission the job. For a full breakdown of which IP rating you need and where, our blog article on IP ratings for bathroom lights covers Zone 0, 1 and 2 requirements clearly.

Fire Rated Downlights in White, Chrome and Brushed Nickel

The finish you pick matters more than people think. White bezels disappear into a painted ceiling and suit most domestic rooms. Chrome and polished chrome give a sharper, more contemporary look. Brushed nickel and brushed chrome sit between the two and tend to work well in kitchens and bathrooms where you want something that reads as metallic without being too shiny.

We also stock fire rated downlights in matt black, brass and antique brass for more statement installations. All finishes are available across fixed and tilt styles, and most are available in multipacks of 10, 25 or 50 if you are fitting out an entire floor. If you are also looking at non-fire-rated options for rooms where it is not a requirement, our LED downlights collection covers the full range.

Insulation Coverable Fire Rated Downlights

If you are fitting downlights into a top floor ceiling with insulation above, you need a fitting that is rated for insulation contact. Standard downlights require an air gap to dissipate heat, which means cutting back insulation and potentially creating cold spots. Insulation coverable fire rated downlights are rated to sit directly under or in contact with loft insulation with no air gap needed.

This is a compliance point worth getting right before you start cutting holes. Check the product datasheet to confirm the IC (insulation contact) rating before ordering, particularly on loft conversions and top floor bathrooms.

Fire Rated Downlights in Packs of 10, 25 and 50

Buying in multipacks saves money per unit and cuts down on packaging. For a typical living room or open plan kitchen you are usually looking at 6 to 12 downlights. A full house rewire or new build will run to considerably more. Our 10-pack fire rated downlights are the most popular entry point for single-room jobs, while the 25 and 50-packs are built for trade use where you want consistent stock on the van.

Most of our multipacks come with quick connectors already fitted, which speeds up installation. If you are working on a dimmable circuit, check our compatible dimmers guide before ordering to make sure the driver and dimmer are matched correctly. You can also browse our dimmable LED downlights for integrated driver options.

Buying Guide for Fire Rated Downlights

There are four things to nail down before you order. First, check whether you need IP65 (bathrooms) or IP20 (dry rooms). Second, confirm whether the ceiling void has insulation and whether you need an IC-rated fitting. Third, decide between fixed and tilt. Fixed fittings point straight down and are fine for most applications. Tilt fittings let you angle the beam up to 30 degrees, which is useful for highlighting walls or artwork. Fourth, pick your finish to match the room.

For wiring, most GU10 fire rated downlights in our range connect via a standard push-fit connector. If you are replacing halogen fittings, check the transformer is removed and the circuit is rewired for mains LED operation. Our blog article on installing LED downlights runs through the process step by step.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are fire rated downlights?
Fire rated downlights are ceiling fittings with a built-in intumescent collar or spring mechanism that expands in the event of a fire. They seal the ceiling aperture and maintain the fire integrity of the ceiling for a set period, typically 30 or 60 minutes, in line with UK Building Regulations Part B. The rating tells you how long the fitting will hold back fire and smoke from spreading between floors.

How do I tell if a downlight is fire rated?
Look for the fire rating symbol or the stated fire integrity period on the product packaging or datasheet. The product will carry a UKCA or CE mark and typically lists the fire resistance in minutes. Many fire rated fittings have a visible intumescent collar around the body of the fitting itself. If the listing does not explicitly state a fire rating, assume it is not fire rated.

Do fire rated downlights need to be IP65?
Only if they are installed in a bathroom. IP65 is required in Zone 1 (directly above the bath or shower area) and Zone 2 (within 600mm of the bath or shower). In dry rooms such as bedrooms and living rooms, IP20 fire rated downlights are sufficient and meet building regulations.

Can fire rated downlights be used with insulation?
Some can, some cannot. You need a fitting that is specifically rated for insulation contact, often marked as IC-rated or insulation coverable. Standard fire rated downlights require an air gap above them and must not have insulation placed directly on top. Always check the product datasheet before installing in a ceiling with loft insulation above.

What size cutout do GU10 fire rated downlights need?
Most GU10 fire rated downlights require a ceiling cutout of between 60mm and 70mm diameter. The exact size is listed in each product specification. If you are retrofitting into existing halogen downlight holes, most 70mm cutouts will accept a standard GU10 fire rated fitting without modification.