Recessed lighting has exceptional versatility and control over lighting conditions. Also known as recessed downlights, downlights or recessed fixtures,
these downlights emit downward distribution of light which directs eyes to an object or a surface instead of to the fixture itself. One of the greatest benefits
of recessed downlighting is its ability to light a space effectively, while minimizing the appearance of the equipment itself. Recessed downlights are frequently
used over the sink or bathroom vanity as mirror lighting. All recessed downlight fixtures, insulated ceiling or non-insulated ceiling housings, must be thermally
protected from overheating.
Recessed Lighting Components
Downlights consists of several parts that construct a basic fixture: housing (also known as frame-in kit), trim, and lamp.
Recessed Housings:
Incandescent and Halogen Recessed Housings offer economical efficiency and versatility for recessed lighting fixtures. Dimming controls for incandescent housings are readily available. Dimming switches are also available to accommodate halogen housings.
Fluorescent Recessed Housings engineered with fluorescent ballasts are the best choice for energy savings and extending lamp life. Using fluorescent housings for ceiling fixtures are ideal for hard-to-reach ceiling applications.
Low Voltage MR16 Recessed Housings are equipped with low voltage transformers for MR16 lamps, which allow precise recessed accent lighting from low voltage housings.
Remodeling Recessed Housings are used where there is no access above the ceiling. Specially designed for easy installation into a finished ceiling, remodeling housings can create ceiling can lighting where it was not possible before.
Insulated and Non-Insulated Housings must be installed at least 3 inches away from any insulation. Where direct contact with insulation is necessary, a recessed lighting housing must have a UL Insulated Ceiling (IC) rating.
Sloped Ceiling Recessed Housings are shallow or steep slope rated recessed cans that may be used for sloped or vaulted ceilings.
Housing Aperture Size determines the diameter of the opening that emits the light beam and size of the opening in the ceiling. Recessed housings apertures are available in sizes designed for general lighting, accent and task lighting and high ceiling lighting.
Recessed Trims:
Reflectors maximize light distribution for accent, task, and ambient lighting.
Baffles emit a narrow light distribution by minimizing glare and reduce overall brightness; excellent control for reflector lamps.
Open trims create a finished look for lighting fixtures; easy to install and economically efficient.
Adjustable and directional trims maximize the versatility of ceiling lighting fixtures are especially for creating emphasis on artwork.
Diffusers spread light to create softer, wider beams used frequently in dressing areas and bathrooms.
Incandescent light bulbs are the most popular choice because of its low cost and available in many different sizes for various uses.
A – Standard bulbs for wide-beam light in reflectors and diffusers used for general lighting applications.
R – Emit a smaller light beam to allow greater control in accent and display lighting.
PAR – Used to generate lighting covering a wider area, such as a wall, or for task lighting and general room lighting.
MR16 – A small beam pinhole lamp for precise light control, it emits a bright white light perfect for dramatic accent lighting.
Halogen Light Bulbs are extremely energy efficient and provide more light for the same energy cost - lasting up to three times longer than standard
incandescent bulbs. The bright white light generated by halogen light bulbs lends themselves to recessed ceiling lighting uses. Because the beam can be accurately
directed, halogen recessed fixtures are an excellent choice for lighting artwork or for emphasizing a focal point in a room.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs with fluorescent dimmers are the future of lighting because of energy usage concerns. Fluorescent light bulbs use up to 80 percent less energy than
incandescent and have a lifespan nearly 20 times as long - up to an eight-year life for some models. Fluorescent light bulbs are available in a variety of shades from a warm bright
white to a cool diffused white and can be found in instant-on, flicker-free varieties.
M&M Lighting – Recessed Downlighting Experts:
M&M Lighting can fill any lighting need. Call us during normal business hours to speak to one of our highly trained recessed lighting consultants. Whether you need help on replacing recessed cans to properly placing them, we have the skills to assist you in choosing the proper recessed lighting fixtures.
