Downlights are becoming one of the most popular light fixtures. Does it matter which ones you use and where?
LED Downlights have become extremely popular in recent years. From living rooms to dentist offices, these small fixtures can be found just about anywhere. That said, most people don’t know all that much about downlights, even those who have them installed in their homes. Continue reading on as we dive into the details.
What are Downlights?
LED Downlights are small light fixtures that are installed to sit flush with the ceiling they’re installed in. They come in a large variety of sizes ranging from 2 to 12 inches, along with many trim styles to choose from. This makes them an easy and versatile way to light up any space. One feature commonly found in LED Downlights is Color temperature selection.
What are CCT Selectable Downlights?
CCT stands for “Correlated Color Temperature” and refers to the tone of light given by a bulb or fixture. A majority LED Downlights are CCT Selectable. This essentially means that when setting up the fixture, you can choose the desired tone of the light. CCT Selectable downlights typically have a small dial next to the listed available color temperatures.
For more information on color temperature, check out our video here!
How to Choose the Right Downlight
While downlights might all look relatively similar, there’s a plethora of different styles and sizes to choose from. Which downlight you go with typically depends on where you’re using it. One good example of this is with downlight shape.
Shape
Both square and round downlight shapes are available, each used in different applications. You’ll typically find round downlights in residential settings like houses due to their softer, more natural look. While the square style is often found in professional spaces like offices and retail stores.
Size
As mentioned previously, LED downlights have quite the range when it comes to sizes. 5 to 6-inch downlights tend to be the most common choice, especially in residential spaces. That said, using multiple different sizes of downlights in one room can be effective in emphasizing certain areas. For example, having a row of smaller downlights over a kitchen island, with larger ones over the table.
Color
Color temperature is crucial when it comes to setting the mood of an environment. As you can imagine, downlights are no exception. Warmer toned downlights give off more of a cozy feel and tend to be found primarily in places like restaurants and living rooms. While the cool toned lights are thrown in more active spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, and stores.
While most trims (the outer part of the downlight) stick with the neutral white color, there are a few downlights that have other color options. While the palette isn’t massive, you can find downlight trims in colors like bronze, silver, black and gray.
How are LED Downlights Installed?
Despite what many assume, downlights aren’t measured the external light or trimming. Instead, their width is determined by the housing. Sometimes referred to as the downlight’s can, the housing is essentially where all the technology junk is held. You can think of housing as the downlight's root system. So, when you’re installing a downlight, it’s important you cut a hole large enough for the listed housing.
How to Properly Space LED Downlights
There’s a basic rule of thumb when it comes to installing multiple downlights together. If you divide the height of the room by 2, that’ll give you the spacing between each downlight. As an example, if you’re putting several downlights in a room that’s 10 feet tall, there should be 5 feet of space between each downlight. This ensures that you’re getting the most out of each downlight.
Can you Install LED Downlights in Bathrooms?
The short answer is yes. Many LED downlights can be installed in bathrooms. Their sleek and minimal design make them perfect for the compact nature of most bathrooms. Though, not all downlights are fitted for the porcelain throne room. It’s important to make sure that your selected downlight is suitable for damp and or wet environments. IP65 rated downlights are one of the safest option, as they’re fit to handle all types of moisture. And hey, it’s a small price to pay to make sure the best reading spot is well lit.
Can LED Downlights be installed by anyone?
While downlights are very popular as of late, setting them up isn’t exactly common knowledge. Many find the idea of dealing with wires and drills a little intimidating. However, with the right equipment and safety precautions, it is possible to install your own downlights. Just make sure to do your research and carefully read the instructions of the downlight you’re installing. That said, there’s also no shame in hiring an electrician to do your dirty work for you.
Conclusion
As LED Downlights are becoming increasingly popular, people are finding new and unique ways to implement them. While they’re a great addition to any space, it’s important to implement them properly. Hopefully this blog gave you some ideas on where to install downlights and how to do it safely.
