What Are the Best Uses of Recessed Lighting?

A recessed lighting fixture in a kitchen.

Thanks to LED light bulbs, recessed lighting is an investment that can last for years without having to think about it again after it’s installed. Say goodbye to replacing light bulbs and having lights out for extended periods of time.

They’re also incredibly efficient, which helps the environment and your wallet. They use about 85% less energy than incandescents.

A professional electrician can quickly and easily install them. Prime Electrical Services, electricians in Cherry Hill, NJ, says, “Recessed or “can” lights are installed so that they appear flush, or almost so, with your ceiling. The cans are mounted to the ceiling joists and capped with a decorative plastic or metal ring to finish it. These rings come in a variety of finishes to match your decor.”

Recessed lights can fit any style you’re going for. Here are some of the best ways to use them.

5 Best Uses of Recessed Lighting

1. Porch Lighting

Your porch is the perfect place for recessed LED lighting. Since it is built into the ceiling of your porch, it is better protected from the elements than other kinds of outdoor lighting.

If your deck has a roof, you can install recessed lighting for your deck as well. As long as there’s a ceiling, recessed lighting is one of the best options for illuminating outdoor areas.

Since they are easily dimmable, you can also adjust them for the time of day, and they won’t take up any valuable space on tables or the floor. This will make the space easier to clean and maintain. While you still should not power wash outdoor recessed lighting, you at least won’t have to move floor and table lamps out of the way.

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Superior Deck & Fence, a deck builder in Cherry Hill, NJ, says, “Pressure washing equipment can be rented if that is the method you want to use to clean up your deck. Although, you might want to consider hiring a professional because using washing equipment is harder than one might think. Using the wrong chemical can cause more harm than good.”

If you’re concerned about doing damage, it’s best to hire a professional. They will get the job done quickly and safely.

2. Lighting Large Rooms

A small room can usually be lit with a central ceiling light and task lights. However, large rooms will likely need more than a central light on the ceiling, and multiple lights can look sloppy.

Recessed lighting provides an option that lights the whole space without looking like a mess. Task lights can then be placed in areas where more light is necessary.

Homes with open floor plans that include a living room, dining room, and kitchen can benefit from recessed lighting. Each space can then have tailored lights that are needed in those areas.

The kitchen can benefit from pendant lights and cabinet lighting. The dining room table can have a chandelier hanging over it. And the living can have lamps near couches and chairs. Everything can be customized to your liking while ensuring the whole space is lit.

A living room with recessed lighting.

3. Task Lights

Since recessed lighting is installed in the ceiling, it can also make great task lighting. A recessed light above a reading nook ensures you can read with good lighting at any time, and a recessed light above your desk can help declutter your workspace by removing desk lamps.

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It can also be directed to highlight specific items, like paintings, musical instruments, and pieces of art. Other types of lighting can be used for this purpose, but they will interfere with a minimalistic theme.

4. Bathroom Lighting

Are you tired of getting clean in a dark shower? Waterproof recessed lighting is the solution you’re looking for. They can be installed directly over a tub or in a standing shower.

And if you want to dim the lights and take a relaxing bath, they are easily dimmable. They’re the perfect lights to create a warm ambiance (or to cover up the fact that you haven’t cleaned the bathroom for a while).

5. Mood Lighting

Speaking of ambiance, they’re also great for the bedroom. Dimmable LED lights that can change temperature can help you wind down before bed or set the mood.

Bright blue light can cause trouble falling asleep, so setting up your bedroom with dim, warm light is good for your health. Having the option throughout the house doesn’t hurt either.

Smart lighting systems can set your entire home on a schedule, so you get the right light at the right time without having to think about it.

Where are you considering using recessed lighting? Let us know in the comments below!

Jennifer Bell is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey.

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