Choosing Recess Housing for Your Lighting Needs

When deciding on what brand and style of recess lighting fixture to use be sure to consider what your needs are going to be. Check specifications of the housing you are planning on using. Measure the area for the clearance you have to work with. Consider IC rated housing if you have installation to work with. If you intend to use a non IC rated housing you will need at least a 3" spacing away from fixture or you can build a box around the fixture to keep the installation away.

Check to see how easy the housing is to install. They should have a solid bar hanger system with a nailer. Better grade of downlighting will have a better installation system and better lamp positioning. They usually have a floating socket making it easier for a quick intallation. Floating socket also attach inside the trim so there is no light leakage. These housing will also maximize the lighting for a lower glare factor, and have a better quality of Air Loc housing. Air Loc housings are more energy efficient by stopping air leaks. They also will help prevent dust and insects from coming into the room.

You can also check about using a gasket which will help prevent air and light leakage. Depending on company these are sometimes sold seperately.

If you have a damp location make sure the housing you are planning to use are thermally protected and suitable for damp locations.

Decide on how much illumination will be needed to accomplish the task that will be done in this room. If you are planning on using a dimmer make sure they are compatible for the fixture you are using. Basic dimmers are usually used for standard fixtures but low voltage or magnetic systems need special consideration.

Consider sloped ceiling downlights if you have an angled ceiling. They will direct the light straight down which will provide a more even distribution.

Shallow housings are great to use where vertical intallation area is limited. These housing are available for new construction or remodeling projects. They are available with an IC rating.

Remodel downlights are great for a remodeling job and want to install fixtures from down below. You can get thse IC rated also. Clips are provided for installing to hold fixtures. In the packaging you will have a template to up cut the ceiling to size. Then wire into housing before placing into ceiling, using clips to hold fixture secure.

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