There are three parts to recessed lighting. A housing, trim and a bulb. Each part is needed to complete the fixture. You can shop either by selecting a housing or by selecting a trim. Remember to make sure the housing and trim are compatible and from the same manufacturer.
Usually the next step is to select the type of lighting you need. Line voltage, low voltage (with a transformer) or fluorescent. Whether you select a trim or housing you will be shown all the options in that category. After selecting a product such as a specific housing, you will need to scan further down the product detail page to see the compatible trims that will work with the housing you selected. Remember you need both in order to make a complete fixture.
IC Rated: (Insulation Contact Rated) Means the fixture is U.L. listed for use in direct contact with thermal insulation.
Non IC Rated: (Non Insulation Contact Rated) Means the fixture does not meet standards for use in direct contact with thermal insulation. Insulation must be kept at least 3" away from the housing.
Low Voltage: Fixtures that operate at a lower voltage than line voltage are termed low voltage. These fixtures require a transformer to reduce line voltage usually to 12 or 24 volts. Many fixtures that use the smaller MR16 bulbs are low voltage fixtures.
Line Voltage: 120 Volts. Fixtures that operate at 120 volts are considered line voltage lamps. They do not require a transformer and can be directly connected to the electrical wiring.
Airtight: Meets airtight requirements to a certain CFM or less air leakage.
Wet Area: Means the fixture is U.L. listed for use in damp locations such as a shower or some outdoor environments.
New Construction Fixture: Means the fixture is suitable for installation in an open wall construction (no sheet rock or plaster) where full access to ceilings, walls, and floors make no hindrance to installation. Fixture typically includes bar hangers to attach to floor joists and the housing is bulkier than a remodel fixture.
Remodel Fixture: Means the fixture is suitable for installation in a remodel or renovation of an existing structure. The fixture is less bulky than new-construction fixtures in order to retrofit or add to an existing ceiling. Note there still may need to be removal of sheetrock or large holes in the ceiling made in order to accommodate a new lighting plan. An expert electrician should be consulted on how much demo work is needed in order to add a remodel fixture to an existing space.
Energy Star: Means fixture uses less energy than incandescent fixtures and is Energy Star Rated.
Shower Trim: Trim suitable for a shower light. Must also use a housing that is approved for damp locations.
Housings: Housings are recessed fixtures which can "house" a variety of line and low voltage lamp styles and wattages. These housings allow for connection to the electrical system and in conjunction with trims and bulbs create the finished product of a recessed fixture.
Trim: Housing Trims finish off the hole in the ceiling and can play an integral part of light effectiveness or effects based on the wide range of finishes and types available. Note that a black baffle can cut light output by 50% since the color black absorbs light.
Baffle: The baffle is the interior of the trim that is recessed into the ceiling. Most baffles are stepped up with milligrooves.
Eyeball: This trim is a versatile lamp for art lighting. It can be swiveled left to right and aimed up from vertical on a wall. It protrudes below the ceiling line and can attract the eye.
Recessed Lighting Uses:
Recessed lighting in the foyer is most effective when used to add depth to smaller places, wall wash textured walls or painted surfaces, highlight art objects or architectural details, or to showcase a curving staircase or entry floor. Recessed adjustable lighting can add light to the areas and objects that you want to stand out can add an interesting touch to the décor. One fixture can light several areas by simply changing the bulb from a flood to a spot.
Place fixtures approximately 8'-0" apart to provide general unobtrusive light that won't clash with room furnishings. Add a dimmer to be able to adjust light to the level desired for any activity or occasion.
Use wall-washing recessed fixtures to light artwork or attractive walls to make a room seem larger. Be sure to distribute the light evenly. The fixtures should be about 18" to 24" from the wall, spaced one to one-and-a-half times the distance from the wall.
To highlight a textured wall or reveal wall patterns (such as a brick wall) use the grazing technique with recessed fixtures. Place the fixtures 12" from the wall and 12" to 24" apart.
Recessed fixtures can be hidden in niches. Use with glass shelves so that the light can shine all the way down.
The size of the bathroom will decide the lighting requirements. Bathrooms over 100 square feet require general light, while smaller baths can use mirror fixtures. Recessed incandescent fixtures work well and can provide general illumination for bathrooms up to 100 square feet. Place them no more than 36" apart and centered over the counter. Add fixtures for each additional 50 square feet of space. Note that wall sconces should be used in order to properly light a mirror area where direct lighting to the face is important. Only recessed lighting in the space will cause a face to have shadows which can make it difficult to see for task activities.
In shower or bath areas, recessed lighting must be approved for a damp location. Local electrical and building codes should be consulted when selecting the lighting for these areas, as specific requirements vary from state to state.
Recessed incandescent downlights should be placed approximately 6' to 8' apart. Fluorescent recessed fixtures can be used, as an alternative as they last ten times longer and deliver three to four times more light per watt than incandescent lighting.