Suspended and suspended ceiling structures significantly expanded the possibilities for organizing original lighting systems. Integration of the luminaire into the niche of the frame allows you to hide electrical communications, leaving only a scattering element on the surface. For this configuration, point-based LED devices are optimally suited. They are compact in size and attractive in design. But, unlike traditional lighting devices, LED devices require a more complex installation technique. Accordingly, the dismantling of a spotlight is performed according to a special scheme. And in several stages.
Mounted spotlight device
To understand the technology of dismantling measures, one should deal with the installation system of the device as such. As a bearing base, a rough surface usually acts - as a rule, a concrete ceiling, hidden either by a stretch canvas, or by a plasterboard panel. Fixing is carried out on a metal profile element using self-tapping screws, dowels or brackets. This applies to power fastening to the base of the ceiling. The working part, which scatters the light, extends beyond the surface of the decorative material (the same plate from drywall or stretch fabric) through a pre-prepared hole. At the same time, spotlights are connected to the wires that were initially laid out in the niche of the structure - again, suspended or suspended. The wire is led into a corrugated circuit for protection and connected to a lighting device. As additional fixing elements, a sealing thermal ring and a platform for the device case can be noted. The ring protects the decorative material from overheating with a metal profile, and the platform provides a safe mechanical interface between the lamp housing and the carrier base.
Preparing for work
The most important thing at the preparation stage is to completely de-energize the room in which the work will take place. Depending on the energy supply system, this can be done through an individual circuit breaker for a particular electrical group, or by switching the switch on the panel board in the entrance. You can check for current with an indicator screwdriver, which confirms the absence of voltage in the line. And, even if the screwdriver gives the desired result, it is advisable to dismantle the spotlight with gloves designed for protection against a voltage of 220 V. Then, a place for work is organized in the necessary way. All excess in the working area should be removed and the ceiling surface cleaned. As for the tool, depending on the working conditions, you may need a tester-multimeter, wire cutters, crimping pliers and a construction knife. If it is planned to replace the LED device, then, accordingly, its new analogue is being prepared.
Stages of dismantling from plasterboard ceiling
Certain technical nuances in operations may vary depending on the type of luminaire. The standard dismantling technology involves the following stages of work:
- At the first stage, the lamp is unscrewed from the lamp housing. This is usually done without a special tool. It is important to consider that the dismantling of a spotlight in a suspended ceiling must be carried out very carefully with respect to the edge of the hole. If the panel is damaged, further use of the same connector will not work without special restoration.
- Using a flat-blade screwdriver, it is necessary to pry off the decorative rim of the case by slightly moving it and leaving a small gap. In the same way, you should pry the design on the other hand - this operation will allow you to release the device from the groove.
- In the process of removing the housing, the clamping lugs or spring mechanisms should be supported so that they do not hit the hands after the device has completely left the socket.
- If there is a question about how to remove a spotlight with a profile support base, then a complete dismantling of the ceiling structure may be required. But, if the size of the hole allows, then it will be possible to remove the pre-installed profile with a suitable screwdriver, which unscrews the fasteners for this part of the fixation.
- At the final stage, the terminal blocks are disconnected and the cable clamps are unscrewed.
Features of dismantling work in a stretch ceiling
In general, the dismantling technology corresponds to the work that is carried out in the case of suspended structures, but there are also differences. They relate to the mounting method in the hole. Since the tension web cannot provide a rigid force fixation, instead of clamps and spring fastening mechanisms, a hook can be used, additionally fixing the device to the concrete base. And, if the dismantling of a spotlight from gypsum board involves removing the housing through expansion operations in the panel hole itself, then the installation systems in the tension surface shift the basic removal operations to the location of the profile. A metal base supports the housing into which the lamp is integrated. The latter can also be easily removed by hand, and in the future it will be necessary to first release the device from the hanging hook, and then, if necessary, unscrew the metal profile - as in the case of the drywall construction.
Spotlight Repair
The removed device may be defective. And this will require additional repairs. Most often, the very need for dismantling arises due to the failure of the diodes themselves, which will need to be replaced. It is important to emphasize that the housing and its electrical base can remain in the same state, and malfunctions will arise with individual diodes. You can check them even before the dismantling of the spotlight was made with the removal of the entire housing. If a black dot is present in the yellow diode, then it is faulty and there will be no benefit from it. Each non-working element is replaced by desoldering. New diodes of a suitable size are taken and installed in the old grooves.
What else to consider when dismantling?
All operations are recommended to be carried out without undue pressure on the decorative surface of the ceiling. This is especially true of the stage of extraction of the device body. In addition, the dismantling of a spotlight should be carried out with constant monitoring of alternating current. This will minimize the risk of injury. In this case, again, a special tool is provided in the form of an indicator screwdriver or multimeter.
Finally
Despite the complexity of carrying out work activities, the presence of such a lighting system in the house justifies itself for a variety of operational properties. Correctly installed ceiling spotlights allow you to organize an original design, stylish and reliable lighting. With the help of individual elements, lighting systems for certain areas in rooms are often also arranged. The advantages of such lighting can also include low energy costs.