I d/l HALO recessed lights catalog....it shows all their offerings, compatible trims, bulbs etc...
I see in the catalog that they have specific cans for incandescent(ID), LED and CF bulbs.....which confused me because I thought that a LED or CF bulb can be used in an ID fixture...you don't need a specific fixture.

In any case...I bought the mix of 6inch H27ICAT and 4inch H99ICAT - which in the catalog are listed under ID cans.... and the compatible bulbs for the trims I selected with those cans are listed as 50WPAR30 /65WBR30/ R30 and 50WPAR20 respectively.
Does this mean I can't use LED or CF versions of PAR30 /PAR 20 bulbs ?
Also...while I know that Halogen is a type of ID lamp...I actually wonder...are those OK ? I think PAR means halogen but since the cans say ID.... ?

This is why I am confused..... thanks!

 

PAR means parabolic, the shape of the bulb and reflector. The 30 is the diameter of the bulb.

You'll get other input, but basically you can use any type of screw in (Edison based) bulb listed on the trim kit.

The reason there are cans that use LED or CFL only is because there is no screw-in socket, just connectors. The cans are designed NOT to accept any kind of incandescent bulb.

In California for example you cannot install new can lights that accept an Edison based bulb. This is known as Title 24.

 

Incandescent and halogen bulbs give out an inordinate amount of heat, and you must adhere to the manufacturer's suggestions at to the bulbs used. You can use LED's in any fixture, basically, if they will fit. I just installed LED's in the H27ICAT, but you need to be aware those are shallow cans and some LED's are too tall, even with the insert removed. I prefer LED's to any other bulbs in can lights. They run cool, run a long time, give good light for the K value, and are dimmable.

Edit: Didn't know about that in California.

 

wow...weird rules but even stranger approach by the manufacturer to adhere to the various standards....why not make single can and then provide adapter - either Edison screw in or otherwise.... why make entire units and keep such a diverse stock ??

well....ignore my rant.... I guess that is the Supply Chain procurement professional in me speaking...LOL

 

You need to remember..... the electric rates in California are almost four times what they are here.
Hence the need for mandated energy savings thru product choice and design.

 

going back to my question...so the bottom line...even though HALO calls my cans as Incandescent models - I still could install LED or CF lights as long as I comply with the proper Wattage and socket size......right ?

 

Yes.
Say you want an LED bulb, get a PAR30 or what "they" call a PAR30. Obviously the watts will be much lower.