How to Install Recessed Lights in the Garage

If you are seeking good lighting and a neat, streamlined new appearance for your garage, installing recessed lights is always a good choice. Many people prefer recessed lighting over other options, such as track lights, because recessed lights are relatively unnoticeable until they are turned on.  The inclusion of recessed lighting will undoubtedly give your garage a more polished and professional appearance.

Step 1: Assess Lighting Needs of Garage

If you intend recessed lights to be the main or only source of light for your garage, a good rule to follow is to install one recessed light for every 30 feet of floor space. If your main lighting requirement is for all-purpose permanent lighting, it is recommended that you use basic floodlight bulbs.  If more focused light is desired, spotlight bulbs will be a better choice.

Step 2: Cut an Opening and Wire the Light

As always, when working with and around electricity, the first step that must be taken is to turn off the power. Once you are positive that the power has been safely shut off to the project area, use some method of locating ceiling joists. If you do not have an electronic stud finder on hand, simply knock on the ceiling with your knuckles to locate joists.  Once the location of your ceiling joists has been determined, trace the circular outline of the fixture onto the ceiling. Next, use a saw to cut a hole for the recessed light, following the circle you have already drawn. Each hole should be placed roughly halfway between ceiling joists. When cutting, be careful not to cut through existing cables hidden in your garage ceiling.

Once you have cut your circular holes, find the electrical junction box in the ceiling and insert the electrical cables from the recessed lights into the box and fasten them according to the manufacturer's directions. Keep in mind that sometimes you will need to strip the wires before connecting them.  If you are unfamiliar with proper electrical procedures, or hesitant about completing this part of the job yourself, consider hiring an electrician who will be more comfortable working with electrical connections.

Step 3: Install the Fixture Housing

After connecting the electrical wiring of the unit, screw the light into place until the until it locks into place in the garage ceiling.  Recessed lights are designed to be lightweight, so you shouldn't worry about connecting the lights directly to a ceiling beam.

Step 4: Install Inner Baffle and Trim

Once the lights are secure in the garage ceiling, attach the trim pieces to the lights by following the manufacturer's instructions. Most typical accessories will attach with springs provided in the lighting kit.  Finally, screw in each light bulb, turn on power to the garage and enjoy your new light.