LED lighting confusion

7 years ago

We are having our basement finished, so no existing walls or ceiling currently exists. We are discussing the recessed lighting we will have with the GC and designer and now I’m very confused. The GC says they intend on installing a can and an incandescent bulb or an LED bulb. We believe LED would be a better choice, but we don’t like the look of an exposed bulb, so the designer suggests we use an LED retrofit. Is there a good reason to use an LED retrofit as opposed to just an LED fixture? Why retrofit a can that was designed for incandescent? I’ve been Googling all morning but can’t seem to figure out why you wouldn’t just put an LED specific housing/fixture in when it is new construction. Thoughts??

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Comments (5)

tartanmeup
7 years ago
That doesn't make much sense to me either. Cost? Could you ask the GC and designer?
Rachael Hill
Original Author
7 years ago
I think they’re saying the retrofit is less expensive, but I don’t understand why that would be true... why isn’t the LED less expensive than a can that you retrofit with LED? Is there special technology in the LED unit making it cost more? So confused
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sandk
7 years ago
I recall reading recently that the retrofit LED bulb may not last as long as a dedicated LED fixture due to heat buildup. Maybe try that angle with your research. The LED retrofit I used for recessed lights (Cooper Halo) has the light source and trim ring as one unit - no exposed bulb. But starting from scratch, I don’t see the point of the whole can either. Except that a can, trim ring and incandescent bulb is cheaper for the contractor than an LED fixture.
Oliviag
7 years ago
If you use the LED all in one, pretty cheap these days, you have to replace the whole unit when it dies. With the standard can, and led bulb , you just replace the bulb. both have a linger life than most people stay in the same home in my area. roll the dice. pick what you like, and us affordable.
Rachael Hill
Original Author
7 years ago
I agree it seems like they’re just trying to be cheap. But isn’t using incandescent bulbs as frowned upon as using plastic straws?? Seems like they’re basically outlawed for new construction!