A recessed light, also known as a downlight or can light, is a light fixture that is installed into a hollow opening in a ceiling. When installed, it appears to have light shining from a hole in the ceiling, concentrating the light in a downward direction as a broad floodlight or narrow spotlight.
There are different types of recessed lights. The two main types of recessed lights are incandescent and LED. Incandescent lights are less expensive, but they also burn out more quickly. Incandescent lights are also limited in terms of adding “smart” technology and dimmers. LED lights are more expensive, but they last much longer and use less energy. They are also well-suited to adopt “smart” technology and dimmers.
Recessed lights are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, with the most common being 4” or 6” circular in white. The size and shape of the light will affect the cost of the light itself, as well as the cost of the housing and the trim, and potentially the installation.
There are three parts to a recessed lighting fixture: housing, trim, and bulb. The trim is the visible portion of the light. It is the insert that is seen when looking up into the fixture and includes the thin lining around the edge of the light. The housing is the fixture itself that is installed inside the ceiling and contains the lamp holder. There are many different types of bulbs that can be inserted into recessed lighting fixtures, with the amount of heat generated by the bulb being a unique consideration.
Recessed lights are a popular choice for home lighting because they offer several benefits, including:
- They can provide a bright, even light.
- They can be installed in a variety of locations, including ceilings, walls, and floors.
- They can be used to create a variety of lighting effects, such as accent lighting or mood lighting.
- They are energy efficient and can save you money on your energy bills.
- They are long-lasting and can last for years.
- Easily controlled with dimmers.
If you are considering installing recessed lights in your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The size of the light fixture will depend on the size of the room and the desired lighting effect.
- The type of light bulb you choose will affect the brightness of the light and the energy efficiency of the fixture.
- The location of the light fixture will affect the type of trim you choose.
- The cost of recessed lights will vary depending on the type of light, the size of the light, and the features included.
Overall, recessed lights are a great option for home lighting. They offer several benefits and can be customized to fit your specific needs.
Check out our article, “How much does it cost to install recessed lights?”