Recessed lighting is a clever lighting solution that adds both functionality and style to any room. Installed directly inside the ceiling, wall, or other surface, these fixtures consist of three main components: housing, trim, and bulb. The housing, hidden within the wall or ceiling, contains the electrical connections. The trim, the visible part of the fixture, comes in various designs and may include baffles, reflectors, or shades. Finally, the bulb produces the desired light.

Considerations for Installation

Before choosing recessed lights, it's essential to consider the access and available space in your building surface. For unfinished walls or ceilings with attic access, new construction lights are suitable. Remodel fixtures, on the other hand, are a better choice for finished surfaces. They can be installed from the finished side of the wall or ceiling. Additionally, the materials in the walls impact your selection. If there's insulation, an IC-rated recessed light is necessary to prevent overheating. Shallow housings work well for thin walls, while angled fixtures are perfect for pitched ceilings. If you plan to use recessed lighting outdoors, opt for wet location rated lights that can tolerate exposure to water.

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Choose the Right Trim

Once you've determined the ideal housing for your installation, it's time to select the trim that will complement your room. Recessed lighting designs are generally unobtrusive, but the trims come in a wide range of finishes, from metal to decorative and plain options. Most recessed lights feature round or square trims for single bulb fixtures and rectangular trims for fixtures with multiple bulbs. The latter is especially useful for illuminating long horizontal features like bookcases.

It's worth noting that the type of trim you choose affects the amount and type of light produced by the fixture.

• Baffle trims reduce glare and provide softer light, making them suitable for living areas. Black baffles absorb the most light, while white blends well with light-colored ceilings.
• Reflectors maximize light production and direct it downward, making them ideal for task lighting or rooms with high ceilings.
• Wall wash trims have an opaque shell that directs light to the side. They are perfect for accenting artwork or highlighting architectural features.
• Eyeball or adjustable trims allow you to change the direction of the light, functioning as excellent accent lights.
• Lensed trims have solid covers that protect bulbs and wiring, many of which are wet-rated for use in bathrooms or outdoor installations.

The Final Component: The Bulb

Each recessed light requires a specific type of light bulb. Halogen and incandescent bulbs produce bright, white light but can generate significant heat and consume more energy. Compact fluorescent bulbs are energy-efficient and produce minimal heat, but they contain small amounts of mercury. For the best choice in recessed lighting bulbs, consider LEDs. These cool and efficient bulbs have a long lifespan. In fact, there are retrofit modules available that allow you to use LED bulbs in existing recessed fixtures.

Recessed lighting is an excellent way to illuminate any room without taking up valuable space. Whether you want to enhance a favorite reading nook or brighten up your kitchen work surface, these recessed lighting ideas will surely transform your home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I install recessed lighting in a finished surface?

A: Yes, you can install recessed lights in a finished surface using remodel fixtures that can be installed from the finished side of the wall or ceiling.

Q: Are there specific recessed lights for outdoor use?

A: Yes, recessed fixtures can be used outdoors. However, it's important to choose wet location rated recessed lights if they will come in contact with water.

Q: What type of bulb should I choose for my recessed lighting?

A: LED bulbs are the most recommended choice for recessed lighting. They are cool, energy-efficient, and have a long lifespan. Additionally, there are retrofit modules available that allow you to use LED bulbs in existing recessed fixtures.

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