Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Recess lighting in drop ceilings

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ootman
03-01-06, 07:10 AM
We are in the process of finishing my basement into a family / game room. I will be installing a suspended ceiling, and I would like to use recess lighting. My ceiling height is 71/2 feet high. What should I consider when purchasing my lighting fixtures regarding safety, heat coming off of the lights etc. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks--

John Nelson
03-01-06, 08:32 AM
With a low ceiling such as you have, you will need more fixtures than otherwise. So you'll probably need a fixture every five feet or so. You will also want to use the widest flood bulb you can get. All recessed cans are thermally protected, so heat is generally not much of an issue. Be sure to stay within the wattage limits of the can, which is controlled both by the type of can (IC or non-IC) and the type of trim (open, eyeball, etc.). You'll probably want an open trim. If you plan to insulate around the fixtures, then make sure you buy IC rated cans.

Paint the walls a light color.