Master closet lighting

11 years ago

Wanted to use a U-shaped track lighting in my new build master closet but the electrician said track lighting not allowed by code in closet because the bulb is exposed. What type of lighting would be best for this area to give good light for color matching, etc. Thanks so much for your help in advance!

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Comments (3)

nansdrew
11 years ago
I always like light as close to sunlight as possible, so I recommend a color temperature of about 5000-5400K. We use LED recessed pot lights with 5000K in our walk in closet. Good luck!
Jan Pitzer
11 years ago
Thanks for your response nansdrew! Hadn't thought along those lines.
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User
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
There is a catch as to how LEDs can be used in closets by code. Excluding fluorescent, all closet fixtures, including recessed lights, have to have a completely enclosed bulb, (ie a separate lens over the opening) and most LED bulbs won't last very long in a completely enclosed recessed fixture.

The International Residential Code says the same thing as the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)

Part of IRC E4003.12;

The types of luminaires installed in clothes closets shall be limited to surface-mounted or recessed incandescent or LED luminaires with completely enclosed light sources, surface-mounted or recessed fluorescent luminaires, and surface-mounted fluorescent or LED luminaires identified as suitable for installation within the closet storage area. Incandescent luminaires with open or partially enclosed lamps and pendant luminaires or lamp-holders shall be prohibited.

"LED luminaires identified as suitable for installation within the closet storage area." means that it must be listed and labeled, and specifically say "identified as suitable for installation within the closet storage area" on the fixture. Standard recessed cans do not comply.

There are also minimum distances that fixtures must be installed away from clothes rods and shelves if the fixture does not say "suitable for installation within the closet storage area"
Anne Pitzer thanked User