Elco Lighting Recessed Lighting

How to Select Recessed Lighting

Recessed Lighting is highly configurable, so there are several options to consider when doing so.

Some things to consider:

1. Recessed Housing Diameter:

Standard sizes for recessed housings typically range from 4”-24” based on the intensity of light needed in that area / room. 4” housings will only hold a bulb that is a maximum 3.5” in diameter (more or less). This allows for some ventilation around the bulb. Whereas, 6” housings can hold smaller bulbs suitable for a 4” fixture, or larger bulbs up to 5.5” in diameter (allowing room for ventilation). The same goes for larger models.

2. Insulated or not:

Some recessed lighting housing fixtures has included insulation that prevents the fixture from transmitting heat. The heat that is generated in your housing can be a problem if you do not have insulated fixtures and use bulbs that transmit a large amount of heat. We recommend using insulated housings when you are placing multiple recessed fixtures near each other to prevent a large build up of heat.In addition, insulation allows for a cooler operating temperature, resulting in a longer life for your bulb and the housing.

3. The bulb type you will be using:

The bulb type that you would like to use will change the type of housing you will want to install. If you are retrofitting or replacing n older fixture, you may want to look for an incandescent style housing to match older housings. Or, if you are renovation, or building new construction, consider newer types of lighting such as Compact Flourescent or LED Lighting. These innovative lighting types save electricity and are more modern forms of lighting. In recent years, LED Lighting housings have become more available and more popular. For “green” applications, LED Recessed Housings and bulbs should be considered.

4. Dimmable:

If you are planning on installing dimmer switches to your recessed lights, you will want to install the appropriate fixtures to allow for this feature.

5. Remodel or New Construction:

Housing designs are different depending on if the housing is a new install or a remodel of a previous fixture. For remodeled applications, specific models are designed to retrofit easier and work better with existing equipment. If this is the case, make sure to look for models suitable for remodel applications.

6. Commercial Grade:

Some housings fixtures are designed with heavier duty parts which make them suitable for commercial installs. Commercial Grade models can also be connected in your home if the voltage complies. Be careful of connecting high voltage lighting to low voltages, as it may damage the fixture, expire the bulb, or result in electrical problems.

For Additional Assistance in selecting the right recessed housing, please contact our Customer Service Department through Live Chat, or by calling 1-877-998-9378.