Choosing Light Bulbs for Recessed Lighting or Can Lights

Recessed lighting can be a great way to add a modern, stylish look to your business. It can be used to highlight specific areas of rooms, create a warm, inviting atmosphere, or simply provide functional lighting. However, it's important to choose the right light bulbs for your recessed lighting to get the most out of it. There are a few factors to consider when choosing recessed light bulbs, including size, shape, wattage, color temperature, and dimming capabilities.

Size

The size of the bulb is important because it needs to fit snugly into the recessed light fixture. Make sure to measure the interior of the fixture before purchasing a bulb that is too large.

Shape

The shape of the bulb is also important because it needs to fit the fixture properly.

Wattage

Wattage is important because it determines how much light the bulb will produce. You'll want to choose bulbs with the appropriate wattage to light the space properly.

Color Temperature

Color temperature is also an important factor. The color temperature of the bulb will affect the look and feel of the space. Warmer colors, such as yellow and orange, create a cozy atmosphere, while cooler colors like blue and white create a more modern, contemporary look.

Dimming Capabilities

You'll want to make sure that the bulbs you choose are dimmable, especially if you plan to use them with a compatible dimmer switch. With dimmable bulbs, you can adjust the brightness of the light to create the perfect atmosphere.

With these considerations in mind, you can find the right bulbs for your recessed lighting and create a beautiful, well-lit business.

Figuring Out the Type of Bulb Needed

The first thing you'll need to do is determine which light bulb size your recessed light fixture takes. There is a variety of options to choose from including: BR30, MR11, MR16, PAR16, PAR20, PAR30, PAR38, R20, R30, R40.

The number following the letters in a recessed light bulb indicates size: it's the diameter of the light bulb in 8ths of an inch. So, a BR30 is 30/8 inches, or three and 3/4 inches. An MR11 is 11/8 inches. So, you can swap out a PAR30 for an R30 or a BR30 - they are all the same size.

PAR Bulbs

A PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector) light bulb is an ideal choice for anyone looking for bright, efficient lighting. The PAR coating on the inside of the bulb helps to maximize the light output, ensuring you get the most out of your light bulb. PAR bulbs are available in a wide range of sizes and beam spreads, so you can find one that fits your needs. PAR lamps are also available in both flood beam and spot beam spreads, so you can choose the right one for your space. Additionally, many PAR lamps are approved for use in wet locations, so you can use them in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where moisture is present. With the right PAR lamp, you can create a bright, efficient space with minimal effort.

MR Bulbs

MR (Multifaceted Reflector) lamps are a great choice for anyone looking for narrow, concentrated beams of light. The facets on the inside of the bulb help to gather light from the filament and direct it to create a very focused beam. MR bulbs are typically available in smaller sizes and come in a variety of beam spreads, including narrow flood, flood, and spotlight. This makes them perfect for lighting narrow spaces and highlighting certain areas. MR lamps are also great for task lighting, as their narrow beam is perfect for illuminating specific areas. With an MR lamp, you can create a bright, focused light that is perfect for any task.

BR Bulbs

BR (Bulged Reflector) lamps are a great way to get maximum brightness from your recessed lighting. The unique shape of the bulb helps to direct the light out, ensuring your space is well-lit. One of the main disadvantages of BR lamps is that they tend to be slightly longer than other reflector lamps, so they may sit lower in the fixture and even protrude from the bottom. However, the extra length also means that you get better light coverage and more concentrated beams. BR bulbs are perfect for lighting larger spaces, as they provide plenty of light and can cover a wide area.

R Bulbs

R (Reflector) bulbs are a great choice for anyone looking for a more directional light. The reflector coating on the inside of the bulb helps to direct the light out, giving you a more focused beam. R bulbs are typically available in a wide range of sizes and beam spreads, so you can find one that fits your needs. R bulbs come in both flood beam and spot beam spreads, so you can choose the right one for your space.

Advantages of LED Bulbs

Some of the advantages of using LED bulbs versus incandescent bulbs in recessed cans include energy efficiency, long lifespan, low maintenance, and dimming capabilities. LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional bulbs and have a long life up to 25,000 hours, making them a great choice for long-term lighting solutions. They also produce very little heat, making them safer to use in enclosed areas and reducing the risk of fire. Additionally, LED bulbs require very little maintenance and are often dimmable, allowing you to adjust the brightness of the light to create the perfect atmosphere. With LED bulbs in recessed cans, you can enjoy the benefits of efficient, long-lasting lighting in your business.

There are other options to LED Bulbs as well. LED recessed retrofits are a great option for anyone looking to upgrade their lighting quickly and easily. They provide the efficiency of a light fixture with the convenience of a medium (E26) light bulb base, allowing them to be installed into existing recessed housings. LED recessed retrofits also come with both the trim and light source in one fixture, making them blend into the ceiling more seamlessly than separate bulb and trim combos. Additionally, LED recessed retrofits typically last longer than LED bulbs and are better at managing heat. With LED recessed retrofits, you can easily upgrade your lighting and enjoy the benefits of a modern, efficient light source.

Check out our selection of LED Recessed Retrofits on LightUp.

What kind of bulb goes in a recessed can light?

When it comes to deciding what kind of bulb to use in a recessed light, there are several factors to consider. LED bulbs are the most energy efficient and long-lasting option, while halogen and incandescent bulbs provide a warmer, more traditional look. Size matters when choosing the right bulb, so make sure to measure the diameter of the recessed can before making your purchase.

Can you use LED bulbs in recessed cans?

Yes, you can use LED bulbs in recessed cans. LED bulbs are a great choice for recessed lighting, as they provide energy-efficient, long-lasting illumination. LED bulbs require very little maintenance and most offer dimming capabilities, allowing you to adjust the brightness of the light to create the perfect atmosphere. Additionally, LED bulbs produce very little heat compared to halogen and incandescent options.

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