Recessed lights are those that are found inside of canisters in the ceiling instead of being inside of a light fixture that dangles below the ceiling. This allows for lighting all over the room instead of just in that central location.

It is important that you know the proper placement of recessed lights before you mess with them. If you have burned out lights it is likely it is time for more than just replacing the light bulbs.

Recessed lights generally work in a series so you can have two or three switches for the room. This allows you to conserve energy by only turning on the section of the lights that you need at any particular time.

Safety

In order to determine what type of problem you may be facing with your recessed lights you will have to test them. You can use a continuity tester to determine if you are getting full power through the circuits or not. This is done by turning off the power outside to tat room.

Test each switch to make sure you have successful cut the power. Check the switch first by hooking up the continuity tester to it. If all of the lights aren’t out though it is likely that you will need to replace the light.

Removing the Old Recessed Lights

In order to remove the old recessed lights, you will need to remove the light bulb, the trim, and the metal casing. There will be several small pieces such as clips that you will need to keep track of while removing them. A small jar is a great way to hold all of these items as you go so you don’t lose any of them.

There are screws inside of the canister that you want to loosen but not completely take out. By pushing this canister up into the ceiling the various wire connections will be exposed. You will need to disconnect the plastic connectors on the wires in order to successfully remove the canisters.

It is important that you take the time to test the socket before you replace the recessed lights. If the sockets aren’t working correctly then you will be wasting your time by replacing them. If the test doesn’t show they are working you will need to replace the fixtures.

Installing New Recessed Lights

The process for installing new recessed lights isn’t difficult as long as you have the right size and style of fixture. It is a good idea to take one of the old ones with you when you go to make the purchase. This way you can make sure the new recessed lights are going to fit and work.

It is a good idea to make sure the electricity is still turned off to the room though if you have been out shopping. You don’t want to take any chances with the voltage of power that will be sent through your body if you don’t ensure it is turned off.

Make sure you follow the instructions on the packaging so you get the wires connected properly as you install the new recessed lights. Once this has been completed you will need to grab that container of clips and other fasteners to hold each of the canisters securely in place.