Fixed Downlights

Fixed downlights are recessed fittings that direct light straight down from the ceiling, no tilt, no adjustment, just clean and consistent illumination. They're the reliable workhorse of ambient lighting in kitchens, hallways, living rooms, and commercial spaces. Browse alongside adjustable downlights if you need directional flexibility, or explore our full downlights range for every recessed option we carry.

Why fixed downlights remain the first choice for ambient lighting

The appeal of fixed downlights is straightforward: they do one thing well. With no moving parts and no mechanism to drift out of position over time, they're the lower-maintenance, lower-cost option for general ambient schemes, which is why they dominate everything from new-build housing to open-plan commercial fit-outs.

Most fixed downlights in the UK accept GU10 LED lamps, running directly off 230V mains with no transformer required. This keeps installation simple and gives you complete freedom to swap lamps for different colour temperatures as your scheme evolves, warm white (2700–3000K) for living spaces, cooler white (4000K) for kitchens, workspaces, or retail environments.

Integrated LED options are also available, where the light source and driver are built into the fitting as a single unit. These typically offer a slimmer ceiling profile and a longer rated life, often 25,000 to 50,000 hours, at the trade-off that the whole fitting is replaced rather than just the lamp at end of life.

If your project requires fire compartmentation compliance, which includes most installations above habitable rooms, check our fire rated downlights range, many of which are fixed fittings. And if you want to update the look of existing recessed holes without full replacement, downlight bezels offer an affordable refresh. Lyco offers free delivery on all orders over £70.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between fixed and adjustable downlights?

Fixed downlights project light in a fixed downward direction and cannot be tilted. Adjustable (or tiltable) downlights have a moveable head that can be angled to direct light at walls, artwork, or features. Fixed downlights are better suited to general ambient lighting; adjustable ones suit accent or feature lighting applications.

Can I use fixed downlights in a sloped or vaulted ceiling?

Standard fixed downlights are designed for horizontal ceilings and will project light at an angle to the floor if installed in a sloped ceiling. For raked or vaulted ceilings, you should use an adjustable fitting that allows you to compensate for the ceiling angle, or a fitting specifically designed for sloped installation.

Are fixed downlights dimmable?

Many fixed downlights are dimmable, but this depends on the specific product. Look for the dimmable symbol or confirm in the product's specifications. You'll also need a compatible LED dimmer switch; standard trailing-edge dimmers designed for halogen lamps may not work correctly with LED drivers and can cause flickering or buzzing.

What wattage fixed downlight do I need?

Modern LED fixed downlights typically run between 5W and 10W, a dramatic reduction from the 50W halogen GU10s they replace. A 6W LED GU10 typically delivers around 500 lumens, which is broadly equivalent to a 50W halogen. For most residential rooms, 6–8W is sufficient; task-heavy areas like kitchens may benefit from the higher end of that range.

Do you sell fixed downlights near me?

Lyco delivers fixed downlights to all UK mainland addresses with next-working-day delivery as standard. Orders over £70 qualify for free delivery, and same-day dispatch applies to the vast majority of in-stock products across the range.