Vetus Berth Lights

[Achilles]

I'm only surprised I've read nothing here about the appalling Vetus berth lights. They're rated at 12 volts 25 watts, and mine have 21 watt bulbs fitted. But the base of the bulb gets so hot it melts a little groove in the solder contacts where they meet the electrical connectors. Result is the bulb makes intermittent contact and has to be twisted back and fore frequently to make contact. Anybody else had this problem?

Regards,

Kris

 

[Mirelle]

I use the cheaper Taiwanese brass jobs. they are fine!

 

[dickh]

I should complain to Vetus and say the are "not fit for purpose" and also complain about the 25/21Watt rating(Trades Description Act?) Perhaps the lamps are cheap Taiwanese lamps - try Osram lamps to see if they run cooler, although I suspect you will get the same result.
I've looked at these lamps and suspect they are made in Taiwan/China anyway. Go for the cheaper lamps unashamably from Taiwan, I have and so has Mirelle - they work OK and are cheaper. I did like the look of the Aqua-Signal ones but they are ridiculously expensive

dickh
I'd rather be sailing...

 

[Trevethan]

I've used 12 volt surface mount spotlights (brass finished) available from most DIY stores. The bulbs are 25 watts and seem to work just fine.

I just cut the transformer off and wires them up straight to the 12 volt supply. It works a charm and they cost about £15 for three, are strong, metal (unlike those horrid Plastimo brass effect cabin lights) and seem to have resisted corrosion very well.

 

[ianwright]

Yes, but you buy them in Taiwan,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

IanW

Vertue 203, Patience

 

[Achilles]

Many thanks to all of you for your comments. I'll certainly be looking at the Taiwanese jobs.

Kris