How to Figure Out the Spacing for Recessed Lighting

Measure your room where the recessed lighting fixtures will be installed. Identify the areas in the room where you want to place the lights, particularly if you are only going to install them in one area.

Identify the purpose of the recessed lighting. Common options include general illumination, accenting a particular decor piece or providing task lighting over a work area. For example, in the kitchen you might place recessed lighting fixtures over a countertop work surface.

Calculate the number of lighting fixtures you are able to place on the circuit in the room. The Family Handyman recommends shutting off the circuit and going around the home to identify all of the items on that circuit. Total the watts used by the fixtures on that circuit to see how much room you have left. Stick to a maximum of 1,440 watts connected to a 15-amp circuit and 1,920 watts on a 20-amp circuit. Divide the remaining wattage on the circuit by the number of watts in each of the recessed lighting fixtures to determine how many you are able to place on that circuit. Consult with an electrician if you are unsure.

Position lights approximately 3 feet in from the walls. Recessed lights placed closer to the wall create a brighter room because the light bounces off the walls. Placing them farther away from the walls may create dark spots along the perimeter.

Space lights for general room illumination between 6 and 14 feet apart. The wider the distance, the softer the light that fills the room. Consider using two separate circuits if one circuit doesn't have enough room to accommodate the number of lights needed for this spacing.

Position recessed lighting fixtures between 3 and 4 feet if you're using them for task lighting over a work surface. This close spacing increases the amount of lighting that hits the surface and eliminates dark spots.

Use a tape measure to identify the approximate location of the fixtures based on how you plan to use them. Place a piece of painter's tape or another bright item on the ceiling in each location. View the fixture marks from the floor to get an idea of where the fixtures will fall. Make adjustments as necessary to make the layout appealing to you.