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naal_gw

Replacing non-IC recessed lights

18 years ago

Hi all - I want to replace my non-IC recessed lights (6) with IC (and preferable air tight) recessed lights in the kitchen. The current recessed lights were part of a remodeling job done by the previous owners.

Is it possible to do this without going into the attic? Also, is this a DIY job? I've swapped out ceiling lights and have hung ceiling fans before and would like to do this my self. It's all ready wired, so how difficult could it be?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Comments (9)

  • 18 years ago

    If these were "remodel" cans, then you can pull them down and replace them without going into the attic. If they were new construction, they're most likely not easily removed from below (without tearing up the drywall).

    Besides, if they are non-IC and you want insulation, you're going to have to go up there and replace it anyhow.

  • 18 years ago

    Yes, these are 'remodel' cans, so that is good news. And it would be pretty easy for a DIYer to switch them out?

    Now, as for the insulation, I'm going to hire someone to do that part. What a messy job and the cost for having someone else do it is cost effective.

    Thanks for your response.

  • 18 years ago

    Yes. Remove the trim ring (usually just by pulling gently downard). Then inspect the hole behind it. There will be some sort of clip or spring that is holding the light in place. You should be able to figure how to pull the light housing down through the hole with a little close inspection.

    The wires will be connected to this. Just swap the new cans in for the old one. It's a pretty no brainer.

    Make sure that your new lights are designed for the same size hole. ... oh yeah, and don't forget to turn off the power first.

  • 18 years ago

    Excellent! Thanks for your help, Ronnatalie.

  • 18 years ago

    You do not say what type of cans you have now and why you want to replace them. Many trim rings are held in place with springs. Remove the bulb and reach up and disconnect the springs. The cans are held in place with metal clips that hold the can against the ceiling. Take a screwdriver and press down on the metal clips. They should release and you can drop the can exposing the wiring.

  • 18 years ago

    The cans are non-ic, but don't know what type. I want to insulate the entire attic, especially this room (kitchen) since it's the coldest in the house.

    After doing much research, I think the Halo H7RICAT will work. The only problem is that when the folks remodeled this room, the ceiling is double dry walled, obviously making the ceiling thicker. Hopefully, there is a way to modify those clips you were talking about to accept a wider ceiling.

  • 18 years ago

    OK, the openings are 7", not 6". Halo doesn't make a remodel can for this size opening. Does any manufacturer make that size?

  • 18 years ago

    I didn't see any, only 6 and then 8, however, the 6" can is actually 6.5". Nominal and actual are two different things, in this case I would measure the opening and then open up a box and actually measure the can and trim ring.

  • 18 years ago

    Well, I found some that hopefully will work from Lightolier. They are more expensive than the Halos though, but will be ic rated AND airtight. I'm buying them locally, so if there are any issues, it'll be an easier return.

    I'm looking forward to installing them (with no issues) and then getting insulation down before the winter. My attic is rated at about an 8, and needs to be 49. ouch.

    Thanks for all the assistance on this forum. I'm usually on the hosta one (my passion), but on occasion need help with some type of home project. Folks on these forums are wonderful!