Which Recessed Canister Should You Choose?

So, you’re ready to tackle the lighting installation in your home? The good news; you know you’re going to use recessed canisters as your fixture of choice. The bad news; you’re not exactly sure how to choose the right one. Don’t worry, here’s everything you need to know to get the best recessed cans for your project!
 
First, What Are Recessed Canisters?
Perhaps you’re still learning about lighting fixtures for your project. If the term “recessed canister” is a bit fuzzy, here’s a quick overview:
 
Recessed canisters, or cans, are light fixtures that are installed flush with the ceiling – where the housing goes unseen. These lights are made of three parts: the housing, trim and bulb. The trim is the external part of the fixture that we see, and the housing is installed inside the hollow opening in the ceiling. Finally, there are a wide variety of bulb types that can be inserted into recessed lighting fixtures.
 
So, how do you choose the right recessed canister?

​Is Your Project New Construction?
New Construction cans are used in a space where you’ll have access and plenty of room to accommodate the bulkier fixture, such as an attic, crawl space, or drop ceiling.
 
Ideally, these fixtures are used in a new build project or a major remodeling where there is no drywall blocking access to the ceiling beams – as the housing is installed between the joists using T-bar mounting brackets.
 
Or, Is Your Project a Remodel?
Remodel cans are less bulky and are meant to be used in a space where there is limited overhead room or little access to the area.
 
Remodel canisters are commonly used in apartments or houses with no attic or crawlspace. Although remodel housing is more compact, it still may not fit in the space desired and would require removal of the drywall above the fixture.
 
BONUS! Lighting Supply carries an LED downlight from Lotus LED Lights that requires no housing at all! At just a half of an inch thick, it’s ultra-thin and can be used in almost any space. When even the remodel housing is too bulky, these fixtures can do the trick; they are quick and easy to install and will save you on energy costs.
 
We also offer a wide selection of LED downlight retrofit fixtures if you are looking to update your current recessed can lighting with energy efficient technology without removing the existing housing.
 
What About the Insulation in Your Space?
Another important factor to consider is whether you need an IC or Non-IC rated fixture. IC, or insulation contact, rated means the fixture can come into direct contact with insulation. On the flipside, Non-IC rated fixtures cannot come into contact with insulation. It is recommended these fixtures remain a minimum of 3” away from all insulation in the space to prevent a fire.
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