10 Best Retrofit Recessed Lighting: Reviewed By SHR

Dimensions and Form

Retrofit recessed lighting requires careful consideration of the size and design of the fixture. Make sure the fixture fits securely into the ceiling aperture before installing it. Ceiling modifications could be time-consuming and expensive if the fixture is too large. However, the ceiling gaps will need to be concealed if the fixture is too small. It's also important to think about the fixture's form. You can choose from a wide variety of round and square fixtures to get the perfect one for your home's decor and your personal taste. While round fixtures are the standard and more traditional choice, square ones can lend a more modern air to a space.

Lamp Designation

Consider the bulbs you intend to use when you go shopping for retrofit recessed lighting. LED lights, fluorescent lights, and incandescent light bulbs are the three most common types of light bulbs now in use. While incandescent bulbs create a warm, natural light, they use the most energy and should be avoided. While the energy savings of fluorescent lamps over incandescent bulbs is undeniable, the harsh, unwelcoming quality of their light can be off-putting. LED bulbs not only save the most energy, but can also be found in a broad variety of hues and illuminances. Consider the desired color temperature before making your bulb decision. The temperature of a color can be measured from 2700K to 5000K on the Kelvin scale. Cooler lighting is preferred for work areas like kitchens and bathrooms, whereas warmer lighting is more frequent in living rooms.

Power and Enlightenment

When searching for retrofit recessed lighting, it is also important to think about the wattage and brightness output of a bulb. Lumens are used to quantify illumination while watts are indicative of power use. You should consider both your desire for low energy use and the brightness of the light when making your decision. One 60-watt bulb may provide plenty of light for most living spaces. However, if your ceilings are particularly high or you simply require more light, a higher wattage bulb may be more appropriate. Although wattage is commonly used, lumens are a more precise measurement of light output. Lumens are a unit of measurement for illuminance. About 800 lumens are produced by a regular 60-watt incandescent bulb. However, it's possible that LED bulbs can generate the same amount of light while using less energy.

Dissect Forms

It's crucial to think about the trim style when searching for a retrofit recessed lighting fixture. The section of the fixture that dangles from the ceiling is called the trim. Trim options include baffle, reflector, and lensed designs, among others. Light is dispersed downward and glare is reduced thanks to the baffle trim's internal ridges or waves. Reflective trimmings are installed to trick the eye into perceiving more height and width than there actually is. A lensed cover put over the light fixture diffuses the light more effectively and eliminates glare.

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LED Retrofit Kits

LED retrofit kits are an energy-efficient option for upgrading your existing recessed lighting. They are easy to install and come with everything you need to convert your old fixtures to LED technology. LED bulbs last longer and use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, which can help you save money on your energy bills over time.
LED retrofit kits typically come in two types: screw-in and pin-based. Screw-in kits are designed to replace existing incandescent bulbs, while pin-based kits are designed to replace existing CFL bulbs. LED retrofit kits are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find the perfect fit for your existing fixtures.

Adjustable Retrofit Kits

Adjustable retrofit kits allow you to customize the direction and angle of your lighting. They are a great option if you want to highlight specific areas in your home or adjust the lighting for different tasks. These kits come with adjustable trims that allow you to change the direction of the light, so you can aim it where you need it most.

Adjustable retrofit kits are available in both LED and incandescent options. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find the perfect fit for your existing fixtures.

New Construction Retrofit Kits

New construction retrofit kits are designed for new construction or major renovation projects. They are installed before the ceiling is finished and allow you to customize the layout of your lighting system. These kits are available in both LED and incandescent options and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
New construction retrofit kits typically require professional installation, as they require wiring and electrical work. However, they offer more flexibility and customization options than other retrofit kits, so they are a great option if you're starting a major home renovation project.

Surface Mount Retrofit Kits

Surface mount retrofit kits are designed to be installed on the surface of the ceiling, rather than recessed into it. They are a great option if you don't have the space or the budget for a traditional recessed lighting system. Surface mount retrofit kits are available in both LED and incandescent options and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Surface mount retrofit kits are easy to install and require minimal wiring and electrical work. They offer a sleek, modern look and can be used in a variety of settings, from living rooms and bedrooms to kitchens and bathrooms.

Low Profile Retrofit Kits

Low profile retrofit kits are designed for ceilings with limited space or low ceilings. They are smaller than traditional retrofit kits and are perfect for areas like hallways and closets. Low profile retrofit kits are available in both LED and incandescent options and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Low profile retrofit kits are easy to install and require minimal wiring and electrical work. They offer a sleek, modern look and are a great option if you want to upgrade your lighting system without sacrificing ceiling height or space.

Before deciding on a trim style, think about the mood you want to create in the room where the fixture will be installed. Whereas a reflector trim is more at home in a kitchen or dining area, a baffle trim is better suited to a living room or bedroom.