This low-profile light hugs the ceiling with just a ridge of trim showing.
Most 20-amp circuits, or switches, can only handle up to 12 lights.
Choose the Right Fixtures
Purchase old-work or remodel recessed lights.
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These lights do not need to be secured to ceiling joists.
Instead, they attach directly to the ceiling drywall.
IC-rated recessed lights are appropriate for ceilings that contain insulation as they can be covered over with insulation.
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Non-IC-rated recessed lights must have clearance above and around the light housing in the ceiling area.
An electrician will charge around $200 to $500 per installed light.
Test circuits with avoltage tester.
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When working above ceilings, wear breathing protection.Be careful of roofing nails protruding from the roof.
Walk only on rafters or joists to avoid falling through the ceiling drywall.
Use a piece of plywood to stand or sit on when working in the attic.
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Using astud-finder, verify each hole is located at least 6 inches away from a joist.
Use the paper template supplied by most light manufacturers to draw a circle for the hole.
Use a jab saw to carefully cut along the line.
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Run Wiring to the Ceiling Hole
Rough-in the supply wireto the recessed light.
If the wire will be coming from its own circuit, pull the wire down through the hole.
Strip the coating from the wires inside the sheathing.
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Pull the wire into the light’s junction box and make the connections.
For example, a black wire from the light will be attached to the cable’s black wire.
Or, some lights may have push-fit connectors, which are identified by color.
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set up the Light in the Ceiling Hole
Push the light up into the ceiling hole.
The fit should be tight, but not so tight as to damage the surrounding drywall.
Most recessed lights have some form ofclip systemthat attaches to the inside top of the ceiling drywall.
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Add the Right Bulb
Add the light bulb as specified by the fixture’s instructions.
When to Call a Professional
Qualified,licensed electricianscan install recessed lighting for you.
Pulling cables through attics or walls is difficult.
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Electricians are adept at fishing wires, and they have the right tools for this job.
Recessed lighting that is also energy-efficient LED lighting is most attractive to home buyers.
In fact, this lighting can add 1% to 3% to your home’s value.
Chapter 160A - Cities and Towns.Article 19 - Planning and Regulation of Development.
2016 North Carolina General Statutes.
Electrical Safety Foundation International.
WORKING SMART WITH FIBER GLASS, ROCK WOOL AND SLAG WOOL PRODUCTS.
North American Insulation Manufacturers Association.
Is Your Home a Fire Hazard?The American National Red Cross.
8 Ways To Boost Your Home’s Value.