The web's only dedicated resource for   
monorail, cable and track lighting   

Recessed Lighting

Recessed lights are a stylish, unobtrusive, and flexible method of meeting a host of lighting needs. They are excellent in task and accent lighting roles and, when used properly, in general lighting applications. They can be utilized alone or in combination with other types of lights to provide functional light layering. Simply using different sizes and wattages of recessed lights can create interesting effects. With the rapidly expanding acceptance of low voltage recessed lighting, there is a size, strength and style for almost any lighting need today.

Recessed lighting basics

Recessed lighting fixtures have two separate parts; housings and trims.

Recessed lighting housings hold the fixture in place and accept the electric connection hardware. There are several types of housings designed for specific applications and environments. Housings may be IC or Non-IC meaning they are to be used in insulation contact applications. The IC / non-IC designation is important to meet local codes as well as prevent fixtures from becoming too hot when mounted in contact with insulation (which can cause the fixtures to trip on and off when they become too hot.)

Housings are also commonly divided into new construction (aka ‘rough in’ housings) which may be quickly and easily nailed in between studs and remodel housings. Remodel housings are typically small enough to be inserted through the trim hole cut in the ceiling allowing them to be installed as replacements for many existing ceiling fixtures without access behind walls.

In a more recent trend, recessed lighting housings are available in low voltage options as well as the more traditional line voltage alternatives. Low voltage housings include transformers which allow them to make use of significantly smaller low voltage halogen bulbs. These low voltage halogen recessed lighting fixtures are available in three and four inch aperture trims for a compact look.

Recessed lighting trims attach to the housing from the bottom (the other side of the mounting surface) to provide a clean installation along the ceiling. Trims also may include a reflective or specular reflective surface for some lamps to optimize downlight. Finally, trims are commonly available in fixed or adjustable versions.