Recessed lights, commonly called “canister lights” or “high hats” are most often installed in series to provide directed task lighting in much the same manner as track lighting. They can also be installed in areas where clearance is needed near the ceiling or anywhere you want to give a more contemporary sense to the room. Before purchasing the recessed light fixtures, make sure you have enough depth in the ceiling cavity to accommodate the canisters. If the ceiling above the area to be lit is insulated, the best bet is to buy fixtures with housings that are rated for insulation contact. You should also make sure the units you buy have trim kits that meet your design needs.
How To Install a Recessed Light Fixture With Access From Above
If the ceiling joists in the installation area are accessible from above, make the cutout in the ceiling for the light then position the unit over the hole and attach it to the joists with the accompanying support braces. Run the feeder cable into the fixture box, securing it with a cable clamp. Make sure the installation of the circuit cable conforms to your local codes.
How to Retrofit A Recessed Light Fixture
If you are unable to access the ceiling joists from above, you’ll need to retrofit the canister lights into the ceiling. Follow these steps to install a canister light in an existing space.
- Before installing the recessed lights, fish power supply cable from the switch the joist cavity above the location for the first canister.
- Once the connections are made, attach the cover to the fixture box then insert the box up through the cutout in the ceiling.
- With the canister flanges against the ceiling, press the catch tabs through the tab slots to force the tabs down against the top surface of the ceiling, locking the canister in place.
- Mount the trim kit - most are suspended with springs from slots inside the canister.
- Screw light bulb into the socket in the canister light and test to make sure the light functions.