Can Light Installation

Can light is one of the most popular lighting options among homeowners today, especially in spaces with low ceilings. The beauty of can lighting, also referred to as canister or recessed lighting, is that it imparts a contemporary feel to the room. The minimalist effect achieved by the simple, recessed design maintains an unbroken ceiling line, making the room appear more open and roomy

First you must choose the type of can light that will work best in your home. If you want to cast spot or task light on a specific area like a counter or painting, you will want what's call eyeball lights. But if you are looking for uniform illumination, down lights will do the job.

Eyeball light vs. Down Light

Eyeball light behaves more or less like the human eye in that it is able to focus or highlight a specific point to which it is directed. This is made possible by a swivel design which supports the lamp in the direction in which it’s pointed. Down lights, on the other hand, do not swivel in any direction but instead focus straight down. When using down lights you will want to place them so the cones of light overlap. The general rule to ensure that the gap between consecutively installed lamps does not exceed 75 to 95 percent of ceiling height.

Installing Can Light

To wire and install can lights in place choose a spot on the ceiling where your work won’t be impeded by a rafter or any other like structure. Find the center point and draw a circle. Then using a drywall saw, cut out a disc. You should have also found a suitable point to place your switch. Assemble the can part of the light according to the manufacturer's directions. The next stage will require you to be in the attic but first you must turn off the power. Connect the wires according to the color and then drop wires long enough to reach the intended switch box position.

Install both of these wires as required in the box and then into the wall. The white wires are connected together at their bare ends to form one tail which should then be connected to the switch box’s green screw. To each side of the switch a black wire should be connected. Cover the switch box and this part of the task is completed. Insert the lamp into the canister and turn on the lights to confirm that it works.

Installing can lights requres the same general precautions as all other lamp installations. When installing multiple lamps make sure you don't overload the circuit. Consult with an electrician to get the accurate number of lamps.