Tools Needed

  • Hammer or screwdriver
  • Wire sheathing strippers
  • Wire cutter/stripper
This is a measure of how much of pain this project might be.

Materials Needed:

  • Recessed light fixture
  • Wire nuts
  • Nails or screws

OVERVIEW

If you’re doing a remodel and the ceiling is open, you can save a lot of money by installing recessed lights yourself. Join Chris in this How-To video to see how it’s done!

Show Notes:

Today’s show focuses on installing a recessed light when the ceiling is open. If you are adding recessed lights after the ceiling material has been installed, you’ll need to use retrofit or remodel recessed light fixtures. You will also need to run wiring to that location which is not covered in this video.

Tools Needed:

  • Hammer or impact driver
  • Wire cutters – diagonal or side cutters
  • Wire strippers
  • Wire sheathing cutter
  • Philips screwdriver
  • Stud finder (if this is a retrofit)
  • Circle saw or drywall saw (if this is a retrofit)

Materials Needed:

  • Recessed light fixture – should come with hanger bars
  • Recessed light trim
  • Wire connectors – wire nuts or push-in connectors
  • Staples – for securing wires

Choosing Your Light Fixture

Start with the trim since this is the piece that will be visible. Once you select the trim you like, then determine which fixture(s) goes with that trim. Typically, the fixture and the trim will need to come from the same manufacturer.

Fixtures are either IC or non-IC rated. IC is short for “insulation contact”. If there is insulation in the ceiling and the fixture will come in contact or be in close proximity to the insulation, you must use the IC rated fixtures. If there is no insulation, you can use non-IC rated fixtures.

To install the fixture, make a mark on the closest ceiling joist where you want the center of the light to be. Then measure on the fixture the distance from the center line to the closest hanger bar. Then mark that distance on the ceiling joist so you know where the hanger will be installed.

Hanger bars can be installed with nails or screws. Screws are bit easier and allow you to change the location if you don’t get it right the first time. Before installing all four connection points of the hanger bar, be sure the fixture can easily slide on the hangers. This is important for final positioning of the light.

If you are installing multiple lights and they are all the same distance from one wall, you can create a “story stick” to make measurements easier. This is just a stick with your measurement marked on it that is easier than using a tape measure for every light.

PLEASE, always check your local codes and ordinances to determine if you are allowed to perform this type of work or if you need a permit to do so. Working with electricity can be inherently dangerous and should only be done by a qualified person.