How to Install Recessed Lights in the Ceiling
Recessed lighting is a popular choice for many homeowners. Before installing the lights you must first decide how you want the lights to be used. There are three different types of lighting to choose from. General lighting diffuses the light throughout a broad area. Task lighting spotlights a specific area in a room. Accent lighting focuses on one specific object, for example a painting or a sculpture. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Recessed lighting fixtures
- Screwdriver
- Stud finder
- Wire nuts
- Utility knife
- Pencil
Instructions
-
How to install recessed lights in the ceiling
-
1
Turn off power source. Always make sure the power is off before tampering with wires.
-
2
Cut the hole. Mark the areas on the ceiling where you want to install the lights. Use a stud finder to locate the ceiling joists. Position lights between joists where wires are currently running. Using the template that comes with the recessed lighting, lightly trace the circle on your designated spot. Using a utility knife, carefully cut out the circle. It is important that the circle is very precise.
-
-
3
Locate the electrical wire and gently pull the wire from the ceiling through the hole, leaving 16 inches of extra cable. If you did not position your lights between joists where wires are running you will need to bring in a wire by running a cable from a power source to a switch box and back through the hole.
-
4
Wire your lights. Remove the plate from the light's junction box and securely insert a cable into the box. Using wire nuts, strip 1 inch from the wires and clamp them to the wires in the junction box (black to black, white to white, ground to ground). Place wires into the junction box and snap on the cover.
-
5
Mount the light. Place the light into the hole and tightly screw the fixture into place.
-
6
Add the trim.
-
7
Screw in light bulbs.
-
8
Turn on your power source.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Strongly consider utilizing the power source from a current light fixture. This will make the installation process much easier. Be sure to use all of the installation tools that come with your kit. Skipping a step or deciding not to use a certain piece could cause future problems.
If you have no previous experience with electrical wiring, you may want to consult a professional. This could be a dangerous process if done incorrectly.
