Light Up Your Home With Recessed Lighting

Recessed Lighting

The quality of light in a room can affect the productivity and mood of its occupants, and even have a significant effect on potential buyers' perceptions. One great way to bathe an area with light without intruding on the space is recessed lighting.

Recessed lighting, which is sometimes called "can lights," has small cylindrical lighting fixtures installed flush with the ceiling, so that the actual light fixture isn't visible. There's no shade to collect dust and no unsightly cords to hide. Another benefit is easy installation, especially if the ceiling is already open or can openings are already available.

Recessed lights come in three standard sizes - 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch cans. A 4-inch can is great for small spaces, while the 6-inch can is better for tall ceilings and large, dark spaces. Prices range from a very inexpensive $20 per can to a more high-end, low-voltage, energy-efficient $150 can. Costs increase if you decide to have an electrician install your recessed lights, which might be a good idea if access to the ceiling or wiring is limited. Manufacturers sell retrofit lighting kits for about $75. Make sure you purchase Insulation Contact (IC) rated lights, which ensures that the proximity of lights to insulation won't cause a fire.