Recessed Lighting Can Sizes: Choosing the Right Sized Fixture

With recessed lighting properly placed in the ceiling, any space can benefit from the gentle ambiance it brings. While there is no denying that this type of fixture is a great choice, the matter of figuring out recessed lighting can sizes can be a little tricky. Let’s take a closer look at this topic so you can make the choice with confidence.

What Does “Can Size” Actually Mean?

When looking at recessed lighting can sizes, there are a few considerations attached to this factor. For example, it is important to note that the sizes are not referring to the bulb alone, although the size of the bulb can vary, but rather refers to the unit as a whole once trim is in place. The trim can either be sold with the fixture and lamp or sold separately. Most manufacturers will list the size of the recessed can lighting solution to help you determine the size of the product.

Recessed Lighting Sizes

Each recessed light size serves a different function and works better in certain environments. Here’s a breakdown of what each size is typically used for:

1-inch to 2-inch Recessed Lights:

• Best for accent lighting, like highlighting artwork, shelving, or architectural details
• Ideal for tight spaces or shallow ceilings
• Commonly used in modern residential or display settings

3-inch to 4-inch Recessed Lights:

• Ideal for task lighting in kitchens, bathrooms and workspaces
• Great for layered lighting when paired with pendants or ambient fixtures
• 4-inch fixtures are also commonly used for general lighting in small-to-medium rooms

5-inch to 6-inch Recessed Lights:

• The most popular sizes for general illumination
• Offer high lumen output and wide coverage
• Ideal for living rooms, dining areas, bedrooms, and offices
• Compatible with higher ceilings and larger room dimensions
• Can be spaced farther apart than smaller fixtures, reducing the total number needed

8-inch, 10-inch, & 12-inch Recessed Lights:

• Best for commercial, retail, and industrial spaces
• Provides broad, uniform illumination in areas with high ceilings
• Great for auditoriums, lobbies, or warehouses

Pro tip: The size of the can does not always determine brightness. Look at lumen output, beam angle, and color temperature to fine-tune performance.

Choosing the Right Size

When choosing the right size, you need to consider how the entire fixture will fit in the space and not just the visible aspects. Because remember, with the trim and other parts to hold the light into place, the entire fixture may be larger than you expect based on the bulb size. Once you have determined how big you can go with the ceiling construction, the next step is to look at which size might be best suited to the needs of your room.

Each can size has different benefits worth considering. For example, can lights measuring 1” and 2” are typically used to add extra illumination to tight spaces. Can lights of 3” and 4” are the most commonly seen options for ambiance lighting for areas such as kitchens and bathrooms because they produce a wider scope of illumination that is still ambient yet noticeable. It can also be used for task lighting over specific areas since it casts a more focused light output. Can sizes of 5” and 6” are ideal for general lighting needs since they are larger, but can also be used as ambient lighting in large spaces. Finally, 8”, 10”, and 12” options are best for large commercial spaces with higher ceilings. These are commonly used in smaller retail spaces, auditoriums, and more.

Avoid Choosing the Wrong Size

Avoid these common mistakes to make sure your recessed lighting layout performs well and looks great:

• Assuming all recessed lights fit all ceilings: Always check the ceiling depth and available clearance before choosing your size and housing type. Shallow ceilings may require low-profile options.
• Selecting a size based only on appearance: While aesthetics matter, function should come first. A 4-inch fixture may look sleek but won’t offer enough output for a large living room.
• Not accounting for insulation: Using non-IC-rated housings in insulated ceilings can be a safety hazard and hinder energy efficiency. Choose IC-rated fixtures where insulation is present.
• Over-lighting or under-lighting the room: Incorrect fixture spacing or using the wrong size can result in glare, dark spots, or too much brightness. A good rule of thumb is to space lights about half the ceiling height apart.
• Ignoring beam spread and lumen output: A 6-inch fixture with a narrow beam may light less area than a 4-inch with a wide beam. Always match beam angle and output to your space’s lighting needs.

Still unsure which size or layout is right for your project? Warehouse-Lighting.com offers free lighting design and layout services to help you make the perfect choice. Our expert team will work with you to recommend the right fixtures, spacing, and placement based on your exact needs.

For a more detailed guide on choosing recessed lighting, see our recessed lighting buying guide