How To Install Recessed Ceiling Light

How to Install Recessed Ceiling Light

Recessed ceiling lights are a great way to add light to a room while keeping the ceiling clean and uncluttered. They are also a good choice for rooms with low ceilings, as they do not take up any vertical space. Installing recessed ceiling lights is not a difficult task, but it does require some basic electrical skills. If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to hire a qualified electrician.

Materials you'll need

Recessed ceiling light fixture
Junction box
Electrical wire
Wire nuts
Drill
Hole saw
Screwdriver
Caulk gun
Caulk

Step-by-step instructions

Turn off the power to the circuit that you will be working on. This can be done at the circuit breaker panel.
Locate the joists in the ceiling. You can do this by tapping on the ceiling with a hammer. The joists will sound solid, while the areas between the joists will sound hollow.
Mark the location of the recessed light fixture. The center of the fixture should be at least 6 inches away from any joist.
Drill a hole in the ceiling for the junction box. The hole should be large enough to fit the junction box snugly.
Install the junction box. Feed the electrical wire into the junction box and secure the junction box in place with screws.
Connect the electrical wire to the junction box. Connect the black wire to the brass screw, the white wire to the silver screw, and the ground wire to the green screw.
Install the recessed light fixture. Feed the electrical wire through the hole in the fixture and secure the fixture in place with screws.
Turn on the power to the circuit and test the light fixture.
Caulk around the edge of the light fixture to seal it and prevent air leaks.

Tips

If you are installing multiple recessed lights, make sure that they are evenly spaced.
Use a dimmer switch to control the brightness of the lights.
If you are installing recessed lights in a bathroom, make sure that they are rated for use in wet locations.

Conclusion

Installing recessed ceiling lights is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can add light to your room while keeping the ceiling clean and uncluttered.