Can You Change the Trim on a Recessed Light?

Recessed Light Parts

• The majority of the bulk of a recessed light is inside the ceiling. There the wiring and canister-shaped diffuser rest, with the rim of the diffuser flush with the ceiling. A piece of trim seals the gap between the ceiling and the diffuser. This trim piece can be replaced almost as simply as changing a light bulb.

Reasons to Change Trim

• Replacing the trim on a recessed light can help the light to fit into the style of a room. Cracks or painting over it will require replacement of the trim. If you cannot use the old piece of trim due to damage, you should replace it as soon as possible to prevent air leaks around the light, which make your home less energy efficient.

Trim Changes

• With some recessed lights, you must remove the trim to take out the glass cover plate protecting the light bulb if you need to change the light. This is why the trim has coil or rod spring clips that release with a pair of needle-nose pliers and can be replaced in the fixture after changing the bulb. Rod springs hook directly to slots on the sides of the light canister.

Trim Changes

• Changing the trim requires removal of the old trim. Release coil spring clips with needle-nose pliers or unhook rod spring clips by pushing up and to the side before pulling the trim down. Carefully measure the diameter of the canister for the recessed light, not the hole in the ceiling, and choose a piece of trim to match. Install the new trim reversing the steps used to take off the old trim.