Recessed Canned Lights to LED: A Step-by-Step Guide

By:

Melissa G

On

05/04/2024

Reading time:

10 min

Summary:

Learn how to upgrade your canned lights to energy-efficient LEDs in this easy-to-follow guide. Save money and brighten up your home today!
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Canned lights, also known as recessed lights, have been a popular choice for lighting in homes and offices for decades. However, with the rise of energy-efficient and cost-effective alternatives, such as LED bulbs, many people are opting to switch out their old canned lights for LED ones. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of converting your canned lights to LED, saving you money on energy bills and providing better lighting for your space.
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Before

Gather Neccessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin converting your canned lights to LED, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. These include a ladder, insulated gloves, wire strippers, and the LED bulbs and trim rings of your choice. Additionally, it's important to check the dimensions and type of your current bulbs and trim rings to ensure you purchase the correct size and fit for your new LED bulbs.
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DIY Guide: Converting Canned Recessed Lights to LED

Materials Needed:

  1. LED retrofit kit compatible with your existing recessed lights

  2. Screwdriver

  3. Ladder (if necessary)

  4. Wire cutters (if necessary)

Step 1: Safety First

Before you begin any electrical work, always ensure your safety. Turn off the power to the recessed lights at the breaker box to avoid any risk of electric shock. Use a voltage tester to double-check that the power is indeed off before proceeding.

Step 2: Remove the Existing Bulb

Once you've confirmed the power is off, use a screwdriver to remove the existing bulb from the recessed light fixture. Be careful not to touch the bulb with your bare hands, as oils from your skin can reduce its lifespan.

Step 3: Remove the Trim

Depending on the type of recessed light fixture you have, you may need to remove the trim to access the housing. In most cases, the trim will either twist off or be held in place by springs.

Step 4: Install the LED Retrofit Kit

Take your LED retrofit kit and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. This typically involves screwing the LED module into the existing socket in the recessed light fixture. Make sure it's securely in place.

Step 5: Attach the Trim (if necessary)

If your LED retrofit kit includes a new trim piece, attach it to the fixture according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will give your newly converted LED recessed light a polished look.

Step 6: Restore Power and Test

Once you've installed the LED retrofit kit and trim (if applicable), turn the power back on at the breaker box. Test the light to ensure it's working properly. If it doesn't turn on, double-check your connections and make sure everything is securely in place.

Step 7: Repeat for Additional Lights If you have multiple recessed lights you want to convert to LED, repeat the process for each one individually. Take your time to ensure each retrofit kit is installed correctly and safely.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Energy-Efficient Lighting With your canned recessed lights now converted to LED, you can enjoy the benefits of energy-efficient lighting. LEDs last much longer than traditional bulbs and consume less energy, saving you money on your electricity bills in the long run.

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After-LED Install

Conclusion:

Converting your canned recessed lights to LED is a straightforward DIY project that can have a big impact on your home's energy efficiency. By following this step-by-step guide and taking proper safety precautions, you can upgrade your lighting fixtures in no time. Say goodbye to inefficient incandescent bulbs and hello to the bright, long-lasting glow of LED lighting.