High Hat Clearance

I'd like to change some flourescent lights to several Hi-Hats. The area I'm dealing with is a basement. The ceiling is open (2 x 8 Joists) with your usual mixture of wires, pipes, etc. I eventually plan some form of tile/drop ceiling. The distance from the bottom of the joists to the floor above is almost 9". There is no insulation & I do not intend to put any in. My question is this - they make two versions of Hi-hat for non-insulated new construction - one is 7 1/2" deep the other is a shallow version - only 5" deep. I have enough clearance for either but I'm wondering is there a "minimum" recommended clearance between the hi-hat and the surrounding wood? They say that you should leave at least 3" between these noninsulation Hi-hats and any insulation but they don't talk about any "minimums" in terms of the hi-hat and the ceiling joists &/or floor above. I think these cans can get fairly warm & I just want to make sure that I leave enough clearance to avoid risking possible fire.

 

Most brands of cans require no clearance above. Some require 1". You'll just have to examine the specs of the brand you plan to install.

The reasons for insulation clearance are different than the reasons that might exist for the can from wood.

 

I actually went to the company's website. They recommend 1/2" clearance between joists & wood ceiling members. Thanks