Recessed Lighting Calculator

Recessed lighting, also known as downlighting or can lights, are light fixtures installed into a hollow opening in a ceiling, making them appear flush with the surface.

This calculator helps, but it depends on room size, ceiling height, purpose (ambient, task, accent), and the lumen output of the chosen fixtures. General guidelines often suggest dividing ceiling height by two to get a starting point for spacing.

Lumens measure the total amount of visible light from a light source. More lumens mean brighter light.

Higher ceilings generally require more lights or lights with higher lumen output and potentially wider beam angles to achieve the desired brightness at floor level.

Ambient lighting provides overall illumination. Task lighting focuses on specific areas for activities (e.g., kitchen counters). Accent lighting highlights architectural features or objects.

Common sizes are 4-inch and 6-inch. 6-inch lights are often used for general lighting, while 4-inch lights can be better for task or accent lighting, or in smaller rooms.

Beam angle refers to the spread of light from the fixture. Narrower beams are for accenting, while wider beams are for general illumination.

While possible for experienced DIYers, it involves electrical work. If you’re not comfortable, it’s best to hire a qualified electrician, especially to ensure compliance with local building codes.

Yes, LED recessed lights are significantly more energy-efficient, last much longer, and offer better light quality and dimming capabilities compared to incandescent or halogen options.

A common rule of thumb is to place them about half the distance of your light spacing from the wall. For example, if lights are spaced 6 feet apart, place them about 3 feet from the walls. This can vary based on the desired lighting effect.