Recessed Lighting Buying Guide

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What is recessed lighting?
Recessed lighting refers to fixtures that are set into ceilings or
walls. Commonly called cans because of their shape, they include
the housing (the internal part in the ceiling that you don't see)
and the trim, which is visible. With little or no profile, recessed
lighting provides eective ambient and accent illumination for both
residential and commercial use.
Which type of housing should I use:
Remodel or New Construction?
There are two types of housings, New Construction and Remodel.
Determining which type to use will depend on your application. If
the ceiling has not been installed or if a T-bar ceiling is used, you will
want to use a New Construction housing. If you do not have access,
you will want to use a Remodel housing.
What is the dierence between IC vs. Non-IC rated housings?
IC rated housings allow insulation (either laid in or blown in) to be
installed on or around the housing. Non-IC housings require that
insulation be kept at least 3" away from the housing at all times.
How many lights am I going to need?
This question has no easy answer, as opinions on this subject vary
greatly. However, a good rule of thumb is to take the height of the
ceiling and divide it in half. This is the distance that each light should
be from one another. For example, a room with an 8' ceiling, should
have lights approximately 4' from one another (8' ceiling / 2 = 4'
apart). The total number of lights will also be aected by the type
and wattage of bulb being used. Spot lights with narrow beams will
produce pockets or pools of light, while flood type bulbs will produce
broader amounts of light.
Can I use a dimmer?
Yes, a dimmer can be used on most recessed lighting. Line Voltage
recessed lighting can be dimmed with a standard incandescent
dimmer. While Low Voltage recessed lighting will be dimmed with
either a Low Voltage Electronic or Magnetic dimmer. The type
of transformer (Electronic or Magnetic) used in the housing will
determine which type of dimmer you need. Triac and ELV dimmers
can be used in many LED applications. Make sure to check with the
lighting manufacturer for dimmer compatibility.
What is meant by Air-Tight down light and why would I want to
use one?
Any air-tight rated down light has demonstrated in an independent
testing laboratory environment that it will prevent air flow through
the fixture. This is important because it saves money in heating and
cooling costs. Just as important, some state regulations are now
requiring that new home construction use this type of down light.
Can recessed lights be installed in a bathroom?
Yes, recessed lighting trims and housings are suitable for damp
locations (porch or bathroom) using any trim. Wet locations, above a
shower or outdoors, require the use of specific wet location trims.
Recessed Lighting
FAQ
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