DIY Lighting

At Lightingplus we have a variety of DIY and double insulated lights that you can count on to make your DIY project run smoothly.

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FAQ's

A batten fix fitting is a light shade designed to attach directly onto an existing ceiling batten holder without hiring an electrician.

Unscrew the plastic shade ring (skirt) from the ceiling batten holder, place the shade's centre ring over the exposed threads, and screw the skirt back on tightly to lock the shade in place.

No. Because you are only swapping a shade and handling insulated exterior parts, turning off the light switch at the wall is sufficient (if using an incandescent bulb, let it cool before removing). However, if your batten holder is cracked, brittle, or damaged, turn off the power at the main switchboard before touching it.

Yes, using a DIY batten fix suspension cord. These feature a bayonet plug that twists directly into the B22 socket like a lightbulb, along with a canopy cover that slides up to hide the ceiling fixture.

Cross-threading the plastic skirt ring is the most common cause. Unscrew the ring completely, align the shade flat against the batten shoulder, and carefully re-thread the ring clockwise.

No. Compatibility depends on the shade’s ring size, weight and ventilation, as well as the thread length available on the batten holder:

  • Fittings & Ring Size: A standard B22 batten holder requires a 28mm ring opening. Shades with a 42mm opening (E27 standard) require a shade reducer ring (washer) to fit.

  • Weight Limits: Standard plastic ceiling batten holders support a maximum weight of 2kg to 3kg. Heavy glass or solid wood shades can strip threads or snap aged plastic fittings.

  • Thread Length: Older plastic batten holders often have shorter threaded necks. If your new shade has a thick base, a heavy metal gallery, or a bulky frame, there may not be enough exposed thread left for the plastic skirt ring to catch and lock securely.

  • Heat & Ventilation: Enclosed or narrow glass shades trap heat. Always pair enclosed batten fix shades with cool-running LED bulbs to prevent the plastic holder from degrading over time.