Lighting Fixtures in UK?
Can I purchase a ceiling light fitting from the USA and install it in the UK? Is it easy to fit a USA light ceiling fixture in the UK or are the USA fittings/wiring etc non-matching and non-compliant with UK regulations?
Answer: In general, the ceiling lighting fixtures like pendant lights and chandeliers from the US should not have a problem working in the UK in terms of the eletrical and temperature ratings. However, lighting fixtures in the US usually have safety approvals from UL or ETL, which might not mean anything in the UK. We don’t not know in the case if there is any incident that involves the insurance companies, if they will reject a claim because the fixture is from the US and do not have UK safety approvals. Unfortunately, we currently do not ship to the UK due to logistic reasons. Hope this helps.
August 23rd, 2006 at 7:26 pm
Hi there we are a UK a UK lighting store. Insurance companies in the UK are not as strict about British Stnadard markings as the US companies are with regards UL. That said a couple of things to look out for, the voltage at source in the UK is around 248v (rather than the nominal 230v) and also the lights should be CE marked (a self regulating standard).
Regards - Jack
November 8th, 2007 at 2:08 pm
Does this mean that light fixtures, e.g., chandeliers, flush mounts, from the US can be connected and used in the UK without issue and vice versa for UK fixtures in the US? I know that lamps, just by using an adapter (not even a converter) and the correct light bulb are usable.
Thanks!
November 8th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Sorry what I meant to type in my previous question was if fixtures can be connected without the need for conversion (electrical or otherwise) and the correct bulbs were used (CE standard), would the higher voltage source pose any risk to using a US light fixture?
July 8th, 2008 at 4:44 pm
The lampholders used in chandeliers, flush mounts are typically rated at a higher voltage than the 110V regular line voltage in the US. If memory serves me correctly, it can take 250V without problems. The ratings are imprinted on the lampholders themselves. You can always refer to them for verification. Electrical-wise, it should not be an issue.
Where you need to pay more attention to is the heat; whether there is enough heat dissipation at the higher voltage so it will not cause damage to the fixture is the key. In general, if the wattage is the same, then most likely it’s going to be fine. However, it’s best to consult with a licensed electrician for your application. We assume no liability in offering our knowledge here.