How to Remove Insulation for Non-IC Rated Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting cans reside mostly in the attic space, with only the very tip of the light extending out into the living area. While this saves space in the home, it can create problems in the attic. Recessed lights are rated as either IC, which stands for insulation contact, or non-IC, which stands for non-insulation contact. As the name implies, non-IC lights should not touch insulation because of a potential fire hazard. If needed, remove insulation near these lights for safety.

Long sleeves
Pants
Gloves
Dust mask
Safety glasses
Work light (optional)
Rake
Utility knife
Tape measure or ruler
Plastic trash bags

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare adequately for removing the insulation by putting on pants and tucking the lower legs into boots or shoes. Also don a long-sleeve shirt, work gloves, safety glasses and a dust mask.
- 2
  Walk into the rooms of the home where the non-IC recessed lights are installed and count them. This ensures you locate all of the lights in the attic, which are sometimes hidden completely. Enter the attic and turn on the lights or plug in a work light to provide adequate illumination.
- 3
  Walk around until you identify the first non-IC light. Remove the insulation from around it using a rake to pull it back from the base of the fixture. If you have batt insulation, cut it using a utility knife. Continue removing it until there is a 3-inch clearance around the entire perimeter of the light.
- 4
  Place any unneeded insulation into the trash bag so you can dispose of it later.
- 5
  Work your way around the attic ceiling removing a 3-inch strip of insulation from each non-IC light until you have done all of them. Count the lights as you go to ensure the number matches what you counted from within the home.

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