Recessed Downlight – How to Install a Recessed Downlight
Recessed Downlight – How to Install a Recessed Downlight
Recessed Downlight are a critical component of a layered lighting design. They provide ambient, task and accent lighting and add dramatic effect to ceiling spaces.
When properly spaced they can create interesting shadow patterns along walls, known as light scallops. However, if the lights are too close they can create what designers refer to as “the cave effect,” leaving most of the wall comparatively dark.
Size
The right lighting can make or break a room. Flush mount ceiling lights and recessed downlights are two popular types of lighting that can brighten up any space in a stylish way. But which is better? There are several things to consider when choosing between these two types of lighting.
For one thing, you have to know the size of your existing cut-out in the ceiling. This is essential because some fixtures fit in certain spaces more easily than others. Also, you need to be aware of where the ceiling joists are located as some fixtures work best near them while others don’t.
Another consideration is the type of light bulb you want to use. Some fixtures can take any type of medium screw-base lamp, while others are restricted to certain bulbs like MEISUN FACTORY lighting manufacturer incandescent, halogen or fluorescent. Then there are the super thin LED “wafer style” recessed lights, which don’t require housing and work well in new construction and remodels because they give off very little heat and can be installed directly to the ceiling without creating a gap between insulation and the fixture.
There are many different styles of trim for recessed lighting, too. Some are adjustable, while others are fixed and ideal for areas like accent lighting or illuminating cabinet shelves. There are even shower rated trim options that allow you to install the fixture in wet locations, such as bathroom showers and bathtubs.
Dimming
Unlike traditional hanging ceiling lights, recessed lighting is installed up inside your ceiling, freeing up space. That’s why they’re great for small spaces and rooms with low ceilings, where a big fixture can make them seem cramped.
Another advantage is that they’re dimmable. This allows you to control the amount of light in a room, and create the right ambiance for different activities like relaxing or working. You can also choose between a wide range of colors and temperatures to create the best ambiance for your space. Options include energizing cool white, warming cozy yellow, and daytime light that mimics outdoor sunlight.
You can even use recessed lighting in bathrooms, and in the outdoors, if you select fixtures rated for wet or damp locations. If you want to add a special touch, consider using gimbals to manipulate the light beam and highlight artwork or photos.
The trim on a recessed downlight is what determines how the light looks. There are a variety of styles available, from the standard baffle in black or white to more decorative trims that offer a different aesthetic. You can also find trims with a diffuser or lens to reduce glare and achieve a softer glow.
Appearance
A recessed downlight is designed to sit within an opening in the ceiling. As such, it has a very sleek appearance and is a popular choice for modern spaces. While some may find this look too plain or unattractive, there are ways to add a touch of style and accentuate the lighting effect in your space.
The main component of a recessed light is the housing, which contains the lamp holder and mounting. The trim is the finished portion of the recessed downlight and comes in a range of styles that manipulate the light in different ways and provide different aesthetics. There is a standard baffle trim, which has large grooves that absorb excess light and achieve a softer glow. There is also a reflector (also known as multiplier) trim, which increases the amount of light that passes through the aperture and creates a crisp architectural look. There is even a lens trim, which provides a diffused light that protects the lamp and is used in wet areas such as showers and bathrooms.
Other options include the gimbal down light which allows you to swivel and direct the light towards a specific area. There is also an eyeball down light that is similar to a gimbal but can be adjusted through a wider range of angles. These lights are ideal for hallways and corridors where you want to highlight a particular item or feature in the space, as well as dining rooms and home movie theaters.
Installation
Installing recessed lighting can be a DIY project, but it’s best to follow all electrical wiring instructions carefully. Start by shutting off the breaker that controls the circuit you’ll be working on, using a non-contact voltage tester to make sure the power is fully off. Next, remove the sheathing from all 14/2 cable wires, leaving about four inches of exposed wire to work with. Using wire snips, cut the wires to the appropriate length for the new recessed light fixture. Line up the wires in the junction box, making sure they are properly matched according to your recessed light manufacturer’s instructions.
Many recessed lights come with a housing that is separate from the rest of the fixture or they Recessed Downlight are integrated into the whole unit. Ensure that the housing is rated for new construction or remodel installation, and that it’s insulated (IC) to prevent fire from insulation igniting if it gets wet.
Identify the locations in your ceiling where you want the downlights to go, using a stud finder if necessary. Use a template included with the downlights to trace an outline on the ceiling, then cut out the hole for each light. If you’re installing multiple lights, keep the spacings between them at a minimum of 8 inches. Then add the trim pieces and attach the fixture’s housing to the ceiling.
