If you want to install can lights or fluorescent in a garage, first make sure that a nearby power source is present. Otherwise, my advice is to call an experienced electrician. If the power source is available nearby I believe you can easily install recessed lights by yourself. How to change old lights with new and modern designed lights?
Can lights are very popular, and many people searching for how to – install can light in the garage. It shouldn’t be a problem, as long as you have some basic knowledge about electricity, and know how to use a basic toolset.
There are a variety of ceiling lamps of all kinds, and you really have plenty of choices. This is just an example of a ceiling-mount lamp that could fit in your garage and make it bright on demand.
If you like, you can install recessed lighting in a garage. Nowadays it’s an affordable option to light your space, adding some style also. When you’re ready, choose an appropriate light and follow step by step installation guide. This image is just an example, and I suggest you choose a lamp set that fits your garage the best.
Picking between can lights or fluorescent in a garage? This is a question that you need to answer by yourself. There are pros and cons for each, but more importantly, these two lights operate differently and that is something that makes the choice individually.
Is it possible to install recessed lighting in a garage?
The short answer is Yes, you can replace the old bulbs and install recessed lighting in a garage. You can put recessed lighting in a garage, without much trouble. Not just that, I could strongly suggest you do it. New lights are more efficient and energy-saving. Furthermore, they come in a modern design making your garage space more eye-catching.
Why go with recessed lighting in the first place? Well, these lights are a great source to illuminate a room with a minimalistic approach and without losing any overhead space. These come a great choice for low ceilings as these lamps do not protrude down from the ceiling.
If you’re working in your garage, taking care of your car then I strongly suggest installing better lighting.
No matter how you actually use the garage space, if you’re remodeling your old garage and taking it to a whole new level, good lighting is mandatory. Lights are an important detail, especially if we talk about the interior. For those homeowners who like to spend time in a garage, LED or fluorescent lights are an excellent choice.
Lighting plays such an important role in the looks, especially recessed lights if they are properly installed. They deliver more comfort and an extra level of safety for a garage.
How can you put recessed lights in a garage? Let me explain, in the text that follows…
Recessed lights can be installed in a garage. Depending on your pre-installed lights, it could be a simple process or a bit more complex – where electrician help is required.
Just by installing recessed lights inside your garage, you’ll enjoy a classy look and more headspace. Designed so good these lights make the garage livable and seem like an extension of your home.
What kind of recessed lights to install?
First of all, you need to make sure to get the proper housing for your bulbs. If you have an insulated garage ceiling make sure to get IC-rated housings for appropriate heat protection. Non-IC-rated housings need to be installed where the ceiling is not insulated. Ceiling insulation varies, and if you have one make sure to choose light fixtures designed for insulated ceilings.
For the best brighten effect carefully choose light color and lumens declared on the package. If you choose an inappropriate light bulb, there isn’t an easy fix unless buying a new light bulb set and replace them all.
How many lumens light your garage?
Depending on the model, but most modern recessed light can put out 1000 lumens per one piece. Lumen is a measurement of light per square foot. Many interior designers and people dealing with this recommend having between 130 to 150 lumens per square foot. Following their example, I believe that one light on every five or six feet should be ideal. The light color and lumens are often a preferred choice for an individual, which is why you should make your choice.
What color light to choose?
Like I said before, it is a personal choice, but still some technicals you need to know before choosing the light color.
The color of the light can make a big difference. If you’re using the garage for storage, I think that any color light should fit. However, if you’re using your garage as a hobby space, or as a spare room, I believe you need to choose a light color 3,500 Kelvin or something near that.
For those who want to imitate natural sunlight, 5,000-7,000 Kelvin is required.
Install instructions for recessed light
I’ll try to make easy-to-follow recessed light install instructions for the ceiling, no matter if it is about the garage or other ceiling in your home. Make sure to follow these steps, and try to install lights by yourself. If you have any trouble following this installation tutorial, maybe you should call a trained person for the job.
Cut the hole for recessed light
Before any actual cutting, make sure your measurements are done properly and that they are correct. Most light manufacturers provide the paper template to draw a circle or square depending on a chosen light body. Carefully draw a cutting shape, and prepare eye protection (goggles). Make a hole where the light should fit.
Use a jab saw to carefully cut along the line. For cutting more than just a couple of holes, use a hole saw attached to the end of a drill, as this goes faster.
Run wiring to the holes you’ve made
After you’re done making recessed light holes, it is time to run wiring to each hole. Recessed lights have their own wiring and should be easy to install. If you’re using holes from previous light bulbs, remove them and connect new wiring as it should.
Beware: Don’t do it your own if you’re unfamiliar with electricity.
Some lights may have push-fit connectors, which makes things easier. These wires are identified by color, and they’re easy to connect.
Install the recessed light in the ceiling hole
Now you’re a step away from installing recessed lights in the garage. Easily push the light up into the ceiling hole. Be careful not to make any damage to the ceiling. The fit should be tight, still not so tight making any damage to the surrounding drywall. Usually, these lights have some form of clip system that makes it easy to attach a light body to the inside top of the ceiling drywall.
WARNING: Keep in mind that installing a light bulb that is too large and not rated for the recessed light can be a fire hazard. Make sure to buy an apropriate recessed light.
Final words
I hope you’ve learned how to install recessed lighting in your garage, or any room you want. These are not designed for a garage exclusively. You can install these in any room of your house.
Once installed, you’ll get more headspace. Recessed lights in the garage work great, which is why I don’t see any reason not to use them.
For those using standard light bulbs, read about the differences between A19 and A21 light bulbs.