Recessed lighting housings are an important component of any lighting installation. These fixtures are installed above the ceiling and contain the necessary wiring, lamp holder, and trim to create a clean, integrated lighting look. When selecting recessed lighting, it’s important to choose a housing designed for your specific project – new construction vs. retrofit.
The housing should be made of durable, heat-resistant material to protect wiring and provide insulation. High quality housings follow electrical codes and are ETL/UL rated for safety. They allow for easy installation and maintenance. For optimal lighting, pair housings with compatible, energy-efficient bulbs and trims to distribute light. With a well-designed recessed lighting plan using quality housings, you can achieve an elegant, customized lighting look.
Our Top Picks For 2025
The Halo E27RICAT is a 6-inch shallow remodel IC air-tight recessed lighting housing designed for easy installation in existing ceilings. Made by Halo Lighting, this aluminum housing fits 2×6 joist construction and is compatible with most 6-inch trims and bulbs.
The Halo E27RICAT is an insulation contact rated recessed lighting housing designed for remodeling applications where ceiling access is limited. This 6-inch aluminum housing from Halo Lighting offers a quick and easy installation using the exclusive remodel speed clamps that lock securely from 3/8 to 2 inch ceilings.
Key features and benefits:
- Shallow design fits 2×6 joist construction and tight spaces
- Remodel speed clamps lock housing from 3/8 to 2 inch ceilings
- Insulation contact rated for insulated ceilings
- Air-tight housing meets code requirements
- Compatible with most 6-inch trims and bulbs
- Aluminum housing is durable and energy efficient
With its shallow and adjustable design, the Halo E27RICAT recessed lighting housing allows you to easily add recessed lighting during remodeling projects. The insulation contact rating and air-tight construction meet building code requirements for installation in insulated ceilings.
The Halo H7RICT is a 6-inch IC-rated recessed lighting housing designed for remodeling projects where insulation contact is required. Made by Halo Lighting, this aluminum housing has adjustable brackets and quick-connect wiring.
The Halo H7RICT is an insulated ceiling recessed lighting housing ideal for remodeling applications with limited ceiling access. This 6-inch aluminum housing from Halo Lighting features adjustable brackets for proper lamp positioning and quick-connect wiring connectors for easy installation.
Key features and benefits:
- IC rated for direct contact with insulation
- Remodel clips fit 1/2 to 5/8 inch ceilings
- Adjustable socket brackets for consistent lamp position
- Quick connect wiring eliminates wire nuts
- Aluminum housing is durable and energy efficient
- Compatible with a variety of 6-inch trims and lamps
With its insulation contact rating and remodeling friendly design, the Halo H7RICT simplifies installing recessed lighting during remodeling projects where ceiling access is limited. It can be installed from below using the included clips.
The Torchstar 8-pack shallow recessed lighting housing is designed for new construction projects. This 6-inch aluminum housing is IC-rated, air tight, and features adjustable bars and TP24 quick connectors.
The Torchstar 8-Pack 6″ Shallow New Construction Recessed Lighting Housing is an ideal recessed lighting solution for new construction projects. This ETL-listed aluminum housing from Torchstar offers an adjustable and flexible design perfect for installing recessed lighting during the building phase.
Key features and benefits:
- Shallow design fits narrow joist spacing
- IC-rated for insulation contact
- Air tight housing meets code
- Adjustable hanger bars for various installations
- TP24 quick connectors for easy wiring
- Damp location rating for bathrooms
- Aluminum housing is durable and energy efficient
With its shallow and adaptable design, the Torchstar 8-Pack Recessed Housing allows quick and simple installation of recessed lighting in new construction projects. The IC rating and air tight construction ensure proper insulation contact and energy efficiency.
The Sunco 6″ new construction housing is an insulated, airtight recessed lighting can designed for installation in ceilings during new construction. This aluminum housing from Sunco Lighting has adjustable hangers and push-in wiring connectors.
The Sunco 6” New Construction Recessed Lighting Housing is an insulated ceiling can light ideal for new construction installations. This aluminum housing from Sunco Lighting features adjustable bar hangers for easy installation and push-in TP24 wiring connectors for quick wiring.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Airtight and IC rated for insulation contact
- Adjustable bar hangers fit 13-5/8” to 25” joists
- Push-in TP24 wiring connectors for easy wiring
- Aluminum housing is durable and energy efficient
- Compatible with a variety of 6” trims and lamps
- UL listed for quality and safety
With its insulation contact rating and new construction friendly design, the Sunco 6” Housing simplifies installing recessed lighting during new construction projects. The airtight housing meets code requirements.
The Halo H99RTAT is a 4-inch shallow remodel recessed lighting housing designed for easy installation in existing ceilings. Made by Halo Lighting, this housing has airtight construction and quick-connect wiring.
The Halo H99RTAT is a remodel recessed lighting housing ideal for installations with limited ceiling access. This 4-inch recessed housing from Halo Lighting features airtight construction to prevent airflow and quick-connect wiring for simple installation.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Remodel design allows installation from below ceiling
- Airtight housing prevents airflow to attic
- Compatible with 4-inch trims and shower lights
- Quick-connect wiring eliminates wire nuts
- Shallow design fits tight spaces
- Durable steel construction
With its remodel friendly design, the Halo H99RTAT allows easy installation of recessed lighting when access above the ceiling is limited. The airtight housing and quick wiring connectors make this 4-inch lamp suitable for remodeling projects.
The HYPER LIGHTING 4″ recessed lighting housing is an insulated ceiling can light designed for new construction. This steel housing has adjustable hangers, knockouts, and pryouts for easy wiring.
The HYPER LIGHTING 4″ IC Air-Tight Recessed Lighting Housing is an insulated can light ideal for new construction ceiling installations. This steel housing from HYPER LIGHTING features an adjustable plaster frame and galvanized steel construction for durability.
Key features and benefits:
- Insulation contact rated for direct insulation contact
- Air-tight housing reduces energy costs
- Adjustable bar hangers fit 13-5/8” to 25” joists
- Junction box with knockouts and pryouts for wiring
- Suitable for residential, multi-family, and commercial buildings
- UL listed for damp locations and feed through wiring
With its air-tight insulation contact rating, the HYPER LIGHTING 4″ recessed lighting housing allows hassle-free installation in new construction ceilings. The galvanized steel construction provides lasting durability.
The Halo E5RICAT is a 5-inch IC air-tight recessed lighting housing designed for remodeling projects with limited ceiling access. Made by Halo Lighting, this aluminum housing has slide-n-side wiring and adjustable clamps.
The Halo E5RICAT is an insulated ceiling remodel recessed lighting housing ideal for installations with restricted ceiling access. This 5-inch aluminum housing from Halo Lighting features slide-n-side wiring connectors and adjustable clamps to lock the housing against the ceiling.
Key features and benefits:
- IC rated for direct contact with insulation
- Remodel clamps fit 3/8 to 2 inch ceilings
- Slide-n-side wiring connectors for easy installation
- Air-tight housing meets code requirements
- Compatible with most 5-inch trims and bulbs
- Aluminum housing is durable and energy efficient
With its insulation contact rating and remodel-friendly design, the Halo E5RICAT allows easy installation of recessed lighting during remodeling projects with limited ceiling access. The adjustable clamps and slide-n-side wiring simplify installation.
The Torchstar 4″ remodel housing is an insulated ceiling recessed lighting can designed for remodeling projects. This shallow metal can from Torchstar has TP24 connectors and is ETL certified for damp locations.
The Torchstar 4″ Shallow Remodel IC Air-Tight Recessed Lighting Housing is an insulation contact rated recessed can light ideal for home remodeling applications with limited ceiling access. This metal housing from Torchstar features an adjustable low-profile design that fits narrow ceilings and inclined roofs to save space.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Shallow design fits 2×4 joist construction
- Insulation contact rated for direct insulation contact
- Air-tight housing meets code requirements
- Damp location rating for bathroom, kitchen, etc
- TP24 connectors for easy LED retrofit installation
- ETL certified for quality and safety
With its shallow and adjustable design, the Torchstar 4″ remodel housing allows easy installation of recessed lighting during remodeling projects without requiring attic access. The insulation contact rating and air-tight construction ensure code compliance and safety.
The Sunco 4-inch new construction recessed lighting housing is an insulated, airtight steel can light designed for easy installation in new construction ceilings. Made by Sunco Lighting, this housing has a junction box with push-in wiring connectors.
The Sunco 4-Inch New Construction Recessed Lighting Housing is an IC-rated steel can light ideal for new construction projects. This 4-inch recessed lighting housing from Sunco Lighting features an airtight design with thermally protected steel construction and simple push-in wiring connectors for fast installation.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Airtight and IC rated for insulation contact
- Steel housing with thermally protected design
- Push-in wiring connectors for easy installation
- Adjustable mounting bars fit different joists
- Junction box included for simple wiring
- Compatible with 4-inch LED trims and lamps
With its airtight, insulated design, the Sunco 4-Inch New Construction Recessed Lighting Housing allows quick and code-compliant installation in new construction ceilings. The thermally protected steel housing prevents overheating while the push-in wiring simplifies the electrical connection.
The Sunco 4-inch recessed lighting housing is an insulated ceiling can light designed for new construction. This air-tight steel housing accepts 18W bulbs and has an adjustable mounting system for easy installation.
The Sunco 4-Inch New Construction IC Air-Tight Recessed Lighting Housing is an insulated recessed can light ideal for new construction projects. This 4-inch steel housing from Sunco Lighting features an air-tight and thermally protected design that meets code requirements for direct contact with insulation.
Key Features and Benefits:
- IC rated for insulation contact
- Air-tight housing prevents heat and AC loss
- Adjustable mounting slides fit 12” or 24” joist spacing
- Accepts 18W incandescent, CFL, or LED bulbs
- Durable steel construction
- TP24 connector for fast wiring
- UL listed for safety and performance
With its adjustable mounting system and insulation contact rating, the Sunco 4-inch recessed housing allows for quick and code-compliant installation in new construction ceilings. It provides an energy efficient recessed lighting solution.
Illuminating Sustainability: The Revolution of Recessed Lighting
Shedding Light on Sustainability in Recessed Lighting
The Evolution of Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting has long been a staple in modern interior design, offering a sleek and unobtrusive way to illuminate spaces. However, as concerns about environmental sustainability have grown, so too has the demand for eco-friendly lighting solutions. In recent years, the lighting industry has witnessed a significant shift towards the use of sustainable materials in the construction of recessed lighting housings, paving the way for a brighter, greener future.
Importance of Sustainability in Lighting Design
The importance of sustainability in lighting design cannot be overstated. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, lighting accounts for nearly 10% of residential electricity consumption. By embracing sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact while still enjoying the benefits of beautifully illuminated spaces. This is where the revolution of recessed lighting comes into play, offering a perfect synergy between aesthetics and eco-consciousness.
Sustainable Materials for Recessed Lighting Housings
Bamboo: A Versatile and Renewable Option
Bamboo has emerged as a leading sustainable material in the world of recessed lighting. This fast-growing grass boasts an impressive array of properties that make it an ideal choice for eco-friendly construction. Bamboo is highly renewable, with some species growing up to 3 feet per day. It also has a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional materials like steel or aluminum, as it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during its growth cycle.
Properties of Bamboo for Sustainability
In addition to its rapid renewability and low carbon footprint, bamboo possesses several other properties that contribute to its sustainability. It is incredibly strong and durable, with a tensile strength comparable to that of steel. This means that bamboo-based recessed lighting housings can withstand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. Bamboo is also biodegradable, ensuring that it can be safely returned to the earth at the end of its life cycle.
Showcase of Bamboo-Based Lighting Solutions
Several innovative companies have embraced the potential of bamboo in recessed lighting design. One notable example is the “Bamboo Series” by Cree Lighting, which features a range of sleek and sustainable recessed fixtures. These fixtures not only incorporate bamboo in their housings but also utilize energy-efficient LED technology, resulting in a truly eco-friendly lighting solution. Another standout product is the “Bamboo Recessed Light” by Green Creative, which boasts a minimalist design and a warm, inviting glow that perfectly complements any interior space.
Hempcrete: Innovating with Eco-Friendly Construction
Hempcrete, a composite material made from hemp hurds and lime, is another rising star in the world of sustainable recessed lighting. This innovative material offers a range of environmental benefits, making it an attractive choice for eco-conscious designers and homeowners alike.
Characteristics Making Hempcrete Sustainable
Hempcrete is known for its excellent insulating properties, which can help reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling costs. It also has a low embodied energy, meaning that it requires less energy to produce compared to traditional building materials. Furthermore, hempcrete is carbon-negative, as it absorbs more carbon dioxide during its growth and production than it emits. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Examples of Hempcrete Integrated Lighting Projects
One notable example is the “Hemp Light” series by designer Jonas Edvard, which features a range of pendant and recessed fixtures made from hempcrete. These fixtures showcase the material’s unique texture and natural beauty, while also providing a soft, diffused light that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Another inspiring project is the “Hempcrete House” by architect Tav Group, which incorporates hempcrete into its walls, floors, and ceilings, including the recessed lighting fixtures. This holistic approach demonstrates the potential for seamless integration of sustainable materials throughout a building’s design.
Recycled Glass: Transforming Waste into Design
Recycled glass has also found its place in the world of sustainable recessed lighting. By repurposing waste glass into beautiful and functional lighting fixtures, designers are not only reducing environmental impact but also creating unique and captivating pieces that showcase the material’s versatility.
Sustainable Qualities of Recycled Glass
Recycled glass is an environmentally friendly choice for several reasons. First and foremost, it diverts waste from landfills, reducing the strain on our planet’s resources. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, recycling glass can save up to 30% of the energy required to produce new glass from raw materials. Additionally, recycled glass has a lower melting point than virgin glass, which means that it requires less energy to process and shape into new products, such as recessed lighting housings.
Highlighting Creative Use of Recycled Glass in Lighting
Designers have embraced the creative potential of recycled glass in recessed lighting, crafting fixtures that are both sustainable and visually striking. The “Recycled Glass Series” by Vibia features a range of recessed fixtures that showcase the material’s translucent beauty, creating a soft and ethereal glow. Another notable example is the “Terrazzo Light” by Tom Dixon, which combines recycled glass fragments with a bio-resin to create a terrazzo-like effect in a recessed lighting housing. These innovative designs demonstrate the endless possibilities for incorporating recycled glass into sustainable lighting solutions.
Advantages of Sustainable Materials in Recessed Lighting
Low Carbon Footprint and Environmental Impact
One of the primary advantages of using sustainable materials in recessed lighting is their reduced carbon footprint and environmental impact. By choosing materials like bamboo, hempcrete, and recycled glass, designers and homeowners can significantly lower the embodied energy and carbon emissions associated with their lighting fixtures. This not only helps to mitigate the effects of climate change but also contributes to a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Durability and Longevity for Sustainable Solutions
Another key benefit of sustainable materials in recessed lighting is their durability and longevity. Bamboo, hempcrete, and recycled glass are all known for their strength and resilience, ensuring that the lighting fixtures they are used in will stand the test of time. This longevity not only reduces the need for frequent replacements but also minimizes waste, as fewer fixtures end up in landfills over time. By investing in sustainable recessed lighting solutions, homeowners can enjoy beautiful, functional lighting for years to come, while also making a positive impact on the environment.
Illuminating Interiors with Ambiance and Efficiency
Enhancing Indoor Spaces with Sustainable Lighting
Sustainable recessed lighting not only benefits the environment but also enhances the ambiance and functionality of indoor spaces. The warm, inviting glow of bamboo, hempcrete, and recycled glass fixtures creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. These materials also offer unique textures and visual interest, adding depth and character to any room. By carefully selecting the placement and intensity of sustainable recessed lighting, designers can craft spaces that are both beautiful and efficient, optimizing the use of natural light and minimizing the need for artificial illumination during the day.
Balancing Aesthetics, Functionality, and Eco-Consciousness
The integration of sustainable materials into recessed lighting design allows for a perfect balance of aesthetics, functionality, and eco-consciousness. Designers can create stunning visual effects while also ensuring that the lighting fixtures are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. For example, the use of LED bulbs in combination with bamboo or recycled glass housings can result in significant energy savings, reducing both the environmental impact and the long-term costs for homeowners. By striking this balance, sustainable recessed lighting solutions Continue.
