Choosing a Double Recessed Downlight
Recessed lighting is a staple in many homes. These fixtures are great for providing ambient, task and accent lighting as part of a layered lighting design.
A double recessed downlight features two lamp heads that are installed into a housing. They can be used in remodel and new construction applications. They can also be configured with optical accessories that optimize or modify their beam shape and output.
Light output
A double recessed downlight is a great option for lighting nooks and corners in your room. It can also help accentuate features such as artwork and flooring. Choose a downlight with a higher lumen count to ensure enough light reaches the floor. If your ceiling is higher than 10 feet, consider using a downlight with 1000 lumens or more. If you’re installing the downlight in a bathroom or shower, look for one with a ‘wet’ rating.
The light output of a recessed downlight depends on the type of trim and lamp you choose. Baffle trims render a wide beam of light, while eyeball trims are more focused. You can also choose a gimbal trim that allows you to tilt the downlight. Gimbal downlights are a great choice for lighting art, sculptures, or architectural details. The color temperature of a light is also important. Warmer colors, like 3000 kelvin, are ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. Cooler colors, like 5000 kelvin, work well in bathrooms and kitchens.
If you are planning to install a new double recessed downlight, you should first turn off the power at your junction box. Then, use a voltage tester to check for current flow. Next, make sure to strip the wire and connect it to the correct terminals on the junction box. If you’re not comfortable working with electricity, it’s a good idea to take your drawing and electrical schematic to a lighting showroom for help.
Dimming options
When it comes to creating a specific ambiance for your room, lighting is a key component. Whether you want to create an inviting cafe or a plush living area, you’ll need a fixture that can provide the proper amount of brightness and set the LED Wall Light mood of the space. Recessed lights are a popular choice due to their energy efficiency, minimalist design, and the option to adjust them according to your needs.
With the right type of trim, a recessed light can be transformed into a sophisticated architectural element that can enhance any decor. There are many options available, from simple smooth designs to intricate patterns and textures that can add visual interest to your ceiling. Baffle trims, for example, are designed with large grooves to absorb excess light and achieve a soft glow without glare.
Another consideration when choosing a recessed downlight is the fixture’s IC (Intrinsic Corrosion) or AT (Airtight) rating. These ratings determine if the fixture is compatible with your ceiling and whether it can be installed in new construction or remodel applications. Most LED recessed lights are IC or AT certified, making them suitable for new and existing homes. You can also choose from a variety of super thin “wafer style” recessed lights that eliminate the need for housing and can be directly wired to your junction box for a more compact and flexible installation.
Energy efficiency
Choosing the right fixture for your home or commercial space depends on the materials in your walls and ceiling. The type of insulation, for example, will impact the light fixture you select. IC-rated fixtures can be installed in insulated ceilings because they are designed to come into contact with insulation without posing a fire hazard. This is an important factor when considering lighting because a light fixture double recessed downlight that is not allowed to be in contact with insulation can overheat and cause damage to your building.
There are also non-IC rated fixtures that can be used in insulated ceilings, but they require a clearance distance from insulation. This can pose a challenge when installing recessed lights because it requires a lot of headroom, which can be difficult in some spaces. If you have limited installation options, a non-IC-rated fixture may be a better option.
Both recessed downlights and flush mounts can be energy efficient, but the type of lighting you choose will depend on the type of space and the look you want. Recessed downlights are available in a variety of sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your space. These lights are easy to install, and they can provide a wide wash of light. Plus, they are available in a variety of finishes to complement your style.
Safety
There are several things to consider when selecting a recessed downlight. For example, the light’s wattage, UL ratings, and installation options will affect its safety. Some downlights are specifically rated for damp locations or exterior use, and some feature an air-tight (IC) rating that reduces the flow of air between unconditioned space above the ceiling and conditioned rooms below.
Other factors to take into account include the size of a room and ceiling height, how close the light will be to walls, and whether you’re layering lights or spacing them evenly. Light color is also an important consideration for ambient lighting, as it can have a significant impact on how people perceive and interact with the space. In retail environments, accurate rendering of colors can influence shopping behavior, and in museums and art galleries, it’s critical to capture the colors of objects as accurately as possible.
It’s also important to know where your ceiling joists are located before choosing a fixture, as some work better near joists than others. For instance, Sunco’s wafer thin LED Slim downlights install fast and require a shallow minimum clearance for double drywall ceilings, and their IC rating ensures fire safety. They’re ideal for commercial spaces, offices, and residential applications. They’re also energy efficient, with a CRI of 90+ and a 50,000 hour lifespan.