How to Install Recessed Lights with Springs and Clips

Recessed lights allow homeowners to brighten up darkened corners of rooms or focus lighting on a specific part of a room. Installing recessed lights is not a very hard task to do and does not require a professional to do the task. Recessed lights are mounted to the ceiling through different mounting hardware, such as springs or clips. For people who would like to brighten up their homes with stylish light fixtures, read on.

Step 1 – Preparation

Determine where to install the recessed lights. Plan out how to space them in the ceiling and make sure to consider what type of recessed lighting is to be installed. Downcasts project light rays downwards for general lighting, while eyeball types provide flexible lighting which can be directed to some particular parts of the room. In addition, make sure to remove the furniture on the room because the installation may be a bit messy.

Choose a good spot on the ceiling where there are no obstructions for the installation. It may be necessary to go to the attic to check if the area can be used as a perfect spot. If not, use a stud finder to locate studs that may cause obstructions. Afterwards, measure the clearance up on the attic. Take this measurement when purchasing a recessed lighting fixture. Make sure that the canister of the recessed light will fit the clearance and will not touch the roofline.

Step 2 – Cutting an Opening

Place the template of the lighting fixture on the ceiling tile or surface and trace the template using a pencil. Be sure to wear eye goggles to protect the eyes from dust and flying debris. Use a jigsaw to cut through the marking on the ceiling surface. Remove any insulation and other debris from the opening.

Step 3 – Connecting the Wiring

Before connecting any wires, turn off the power supply in the entire home. Run the necessary wiring that will connect the light fixtures, the switches and the circuit breakers. Pop up the junction box on the light fixture to reveal the wiring. Connect the wiring on the light to the wiring that connects to the power supply by following the color codes. Use the recommended wire connectors if provided by the manufacturer or use wire nuts if there are not. Fold the connected wires inside the junction box and safely put back the lid or cover plate.

Step 4 – Securing the Recessed Lights in Place

This step may require you to go to the attic to install the mounting hardware in place. Insert the junction box and the canister of the light fixture into the hole. Mount the canister carefully by securing the springs or clips onto the sides of the opening according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check if all connections are in place.

After the installation of the wiring and the mounting hardware, turn on the power supply and switch on the recessed lights to check if they work.