LED Lighting Installation in Auckland: Cost, Savings and What to Check Before You Upgrade
If your home or shop still has halogen downlights, switching to LED is one of the simplest electrical upgrades you can make. Here are the questions we get asked before a lighting job.
How much does LED downlight installation cost?
On our published pricing, a typical cost is about $180 to $350 per light, installed. The spread depends on the fitting you choose, whether it dims, the ceiling and how many lights you are doing. We give you a fixed price at a free on-site quote. Our registered electrician rate is $95 per hour excluding GST for smaller jobs.
Can I just swap the bulbs?
Sometimes, but for recessed downlights EECA, the government's energy efficiency agency, says it is best to replace the whole fitting rather than just the bulb. The biggest savings come from cutting the heat that escapes into your ceiling. Replacing the full fitting also lets us check the wiring and the cut-out size, so the new light sits neatly. Our blog on the Lighting Upgrade page explains how to measure cut-out sizes.
Can insulation go over LED downlights?
EECA says most LEDs can be installed without gaps between them and the insulation, unlike older downlights that get very hot. That helps your home keep its heat. The rating differs between products, so we choose fittings that suit your ceiling and tell you what we have used.
How much will I save on power?
EECA says LED bulbs use up to 85% less electricity than traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs, and last far longer, about 30,000 hours against about 2,000. It estimates you can save $100 to $300 over the life of each old bulb you replace, depending on the wattage. Your own result depends on how many lights you run and for how long.
Warm white or cool white, and what size do I need?
EECA suggests warm white for comfort in homes and cool white where contrast matters, such as workshops and garages. We help you pick colour, brightness and dimming for each room. For a shop or office we look at panel lights, high-bay lights and emergency and exit lighting as well.
LEDs also need good airflow, and EECA warns against using them in fully enclosed fittings. Cheap, non-compliant products can be unsafe too. Our site blog explains what to avoid.
Is there help with the cost?
Possibly. Warmer Kiwi Homes, run by EECA, can fund replacing older-style downlights that cannot be covered by insulation. It is only available if your home is assessed as needing insulation or a heat pump under the programme, and eligibility rules apply. Check with EECA directly.
What to expect with Smart Electricians
Smart Electricians are registered electrician (EWRB) with more than 25 years' experience. We do indoor and outdoor lighting, kitchens, bathrooms, strip and feature lighting, smart controls and commercial LED upgrades. You get a free quote, full testing and safety checks, and responsible disposal of old fittings.
Get your free quote
Call 027 762 7814 or send a message through the form on our Lighting Upgrade page
Quick answers (FAQ)
How much does LED downlight installation cost? Our published guide is about $180 to $350 per light installed. A free on-site quote gives you a fixed price.
Can I just swap the bulbs? EECA says for recessed downlights it is best to replace the whole fitting to reduce heat loss into the ceiling.
Can insulation go over LED downlights? EECA says most LEDs can sit without gaps to the insulation. Ratings differ, so we choose suitable fittings.
How much will I save? EECA says LEDs use up to 85% less electricity and can save $100 to $300 over the life of each old bulb replaced.
Warm or cool white? Warm white suits most living areas. Cool white suits workshops and garages.
