Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time purchasing recessed lighting, we’ve curated a list of questions to help you find the right solution for you. For more information on our products, please contact us on (888) 423-3191 and a dedicated lighting expert will do their best to support you in this process.

What Is Recessed Lighting?

Recessed lighting are light fixtures or bulbs that are installed inside a ceiling so that the fixture's face is flush with the ceiling surface.

Is a Recessed Light a New Fixture or a Retrofit Kit?

It can be both. For new fixtures, think of a recessed canopy light fixture installed at a gas station. For retrofits, think of metal halide can lights installed in a commercial building, like an airport, replaced with a LED kit.

What Is the Difference Between Recessed, Can, Soffit and Down Lights?

For the most part, they are all the same type of light, although soffit lighting can also include surface mount fixtures. These are just different terms people use to describe a form of recessed lighting.

Do Soffit Lights Need to Be Fire Rated?

To answer this, we recommend you check with your local building code, but for the most part, having fire rated soffit lighting fixtures is an extra level of protection and not a bad idea. However, there will be an added cost for this.

When Does It Make Sense to Use Recessed Lighting?

This is a style of lighting that allows for a clean look architecturally. The light and fixture are hidden inside the soffit or ceiling, leaving a clean-looking presentation. The second reason is when there are height restrictions.

How Do You Determine the Ideal Spacing for Recessed Lighting?

The best way to determine the ideal spacing for recessed lighting is to perform a lighting plan. It will give you the best idea of how far to set the lights apart from each other.

Do You Have Color Changing Recessed Lights?

Yes, we do.

Do You Have Recessed Lighting That Is NSF Rated?

We don’t. There has been no demand for this capability.

Can Your Recessed Lights Be Used Outdoors?

Yes they can. This assumes the existing recessed fixture is already IP rated.

Do You Have a Flange (Ring) That Will Attach to Your Light and Cover Up the Existing Hole?

We do not. Our standard commercial and industrial recessed options are designed for 6” or 8” cans. Or, we have some high performance options that will work in larger fixtures that you may find in airports or other types of applications.

Will Recessed Downlights Fit Inside My Existing 6 Inch or 8 Inch Can Housing?

They should. We have models designed specifically for that application.

What Is the IP Rating for Soffit Lights?

IP ratings can range from IP65 to IP68. The higher the number, the more waterproof the fixture is. IP65 should be sufficient for soffit lights.

Are Your Recessed Lights Dimmable?

Yes, we have dimmable models.

Does Your Recessed Lighting Have a Pigtail or Quick Connects?

They do, depending on the model you choose, we offer both.

Are Recessed Lights Prone to Overheating?

Some can be, but that’s a function of the fixture and the installation. A good recessed fixture should not overheat.

How Do You Install Recessed Lighting?

It is an easy installation that should be done by any electrician or electrical contractor.

How Do You Mount Soffit Lights?

There is nothing difficult about installing soffit lights. All our recessed fixtures have instructions and any qualified electrician can easily install them.

Get Your Free Recessed Lighting Plan

Founded in 2008, LED Lighting Supply has been providing lighting solutions to buildings and facilities across the country for more than a decade.

Whether you need a free lighting plan or have questions about LEDs, our expert lighting team will help you make the right choice – whether that’s for a school gym or a 1,000,000 square foot facility.

Contact us for a free lighting plan or to discuss your LED lighting goals.