How to Place Recessed Downlights

A trend in modern homes is recessed downlights. These spotlights eliminate the need for bulky light fixtures on the ceiling. Recessed downlights are set into the ceiling so that the light bulb and holder actually sit up inside the ceiling rather than being completely exposed for all to see. These units can operate on 12 volts or 120 volts, depending on the type of unit you choose. You can attach some units to ceiling joists, and you can attach other units to the ceiling drywall.

Drill
Hole saw
Wire cutters
Wire strippers
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off the power to the circuit that will power the recessed downlight.
- 2
  Check in the attic to make sure that the area where you intend to place the light does not have any electrical wires in the way.
- 3
  Use a hole saw and drill to cut a hole in the ceiling at the light location.
- 4
  From the attic, set the light fixture into position over the hole. The unit should be situated so that it can be secured to a ceiling joist. This will keep the light in position.
- 5
  Strip 1/2 inch of insulation off of the black, white and green wires of the recessed light.
- 6
  Connect the green ground wire to the ground wire in the junction box that will power the recessed light.
- 7
  Connect the white wire of the recessed light to the white wires in the junction box.
- 8
  Connect the remaining two black wires together. Use plastic twist caps to secure each splice.
- 9
  Turn the power back on and test the light. If the light works fine, then install the recessed light cover, which comes with most units.

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