As the go-to lighting application in both commercial and residential settings, recessed lighting provides an abundance of illumination right where you need it most. If you're in search of the best recessed lighting possible for a new construction project or a remodel, there are plenty of options available, but you may be unsure where to begin. This article can help you get started.
We'll define recessed lighting, talk about the different types of recessed LED lighting and discuss which one will work best for your space. Whether you're a contractor who wants to install the best LED recessed lights in a new construction project or a homeowner looking for recessed lighting kits for a residential remodel, we can help.
Once you've determined the best solution for your needs, the professional lighting consultants at Warehouse-Lighting.com will be on hand to help with your recessed ceiling lights – and all your lighting needs.
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What Is Recessed LED Lighting?
Also known as "can lighting" or "downlighting," LED recessed lights are designed to sit evenly with the surface of your ceiling. The best LED recessed lights can be found in either residential or commercial settings and are the most common type of architectural lighting.
By installing flush-mount recessed LED lighting, you'll create a space that enjoys a clean, attractive and modern look. In addition, recessed ceiling light fixtures can be used to illuminate building features, artwork and decorative objects. Finally, the best dimmable LED recessed lights can reduce energy costs and produce laid-back mood lighting.
One of the easiest ways to upgrade outdated lighting fixtures is with retrofit LED recessed lighting kits. Consequently, recessed lighting has become increasingly popular in remodeling projects as well as in new construction.
Types of LED Recessed Lights
Recessed lighting is defined by three components: lamp type, housing and trim style:
- Lamp Type: The bulb types most often recommended are LEDs, which have many advantages including high energy efficiency, long-lasting performance and consistent illumination.
- Housing: The part of the recessed LED lighting fixture that lives above the ceiling is known as the housing. If you are installing a recessed light that will be in direct contact with the insulation in your ceiling, look for fixtures that are insulation-contact (IC) rated. If you're using non-IC housing, you must allow at least 3 inches between the fixture and the insulation. AT (airtight) certified recessed lights reduce the airflow between air-conditioned and non-conditioned floors to improve energy efficiency.
- Trim: This is the finished part of your recessed LED lighting fixture that's visible after installation. It's typically smooth, but you may choose trim that manipulates lighting to provide different effects.
Let's walk through the best recessed lights for various lighting applications.
Recessed Wafer Lighting
These super-thin wafer-style LED downlights are a terrific solution if you have a ceiling with limited space or are installing lighting on eaves or overhangs. LED wafer lighting fixtures give off very little heat and are suitable for both renovation projects and new construction. Once you've cut the hole, installation is a snap. Wafer lighting is ideal for living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms.
The best recessed lighting uses LED technology, so while you'll pay extra upfront, the long-term benefits will more than make up for the initial expense. Check out the detailed product page and manufacturer's specification sheet for all the details you need about this type of recessed LED lighting.
Shop Recessed Wafer LightingRetrofit Recessed Lighting Kits
If you're remodeling your home or business, you may need to replace outdated light fixtures with new LED versions. If this is the case, a recessed lighting kit is the best way to update old lighting fixtures. These kits contain the components you need to make the switch from inefficient lighting fixtures to modern, energy-efficient LED technology.
You can hardwire your recessed LED downlight fixture to an existing fixture or use a standard residential adapter (screw-in E26) if there's a socket in place.
Shop Retrofit Recessed Lighting KitsCommercial Downlight Fixture
The best LED recessed lighting for commercial applications must perform many different functions based on its location. By choosing a commercial fixture, you will have more flexibility when it comes to wattage selection, CCT (correlated color temperature) and dimmable settings.
Commercial downlight fixtures are typically used indoors to light a hallway or rooms in offices, hospitals, hotels, airports, restaurants and shopping centers.
Shop Commercial Downlight FixtureAdjustable Recessed LED Downlight
If you want to direct your recessed LED lights in a full 360-degree spectrum, look for adjustable recessed lighting. With a high CRI (color rendering index) of over 90, this recessed lighting fixture gives you all the quality light you desire where you want it. The light turns on in an instant and can handle frequent on and off switching.
Once the trim is installed, it's easy to adjust the light from inside the can. Choose from five different color temperatures in this one all-purpose LED lighting fixture.
Shop Adjustable Recessed LED DownlightRely on Warehouse-Lighting.com for the Best Recessed Lighting for Your Room
At Warehouse-Lighting.com, our professional lighting experts will work with you to provide the best recessed LED lighting solutions for your next project. We have the most sought-after recessed lighting brands, including WareLight™, our proprietary brand of high-quality lighting products. Whether you're a major contractor or a first-time homeowner, we can help you plan the placement of your lighting to illuminate your layout beautifully and efficiently. Begin browsing, and let us know if you have any questions!
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