4 tips for making recessed lighting more energy efficient

First introduced in the 1950s to complement the era’s sleek, Mid Century style, recessed lighting or “can lighting” is still popular more than 60 years later, and for good reason. It’s easily hidden, has no exposed wires and complements other lighting – from flush mount fixtures to chandeliers and wall sconces – for a balanced lighting design.   

Despite these benefits, recessed lighting has developed a reputation for being inefficient, especially as more customers look to save money, save energy and do what’s right for the environment. But the best recessed lights combine a polished, clean look with a flexible, energy-efficient lighting solution.

Here are four tips for making recessed lighting more energy efficient.

1. Use ENERGY STAR®-certified products.
2. Spring for LEDs. They cost more out of the box, but light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are far more efficient than incandescent, halogen and even CFL lights – other light bulbs commonly used in residential recessed lighting. LEDs save energy while providing clean, bright light. A single ENERGY STAR®-rated LED luminaire can save $6 per year in energy costs, uses 75 percent less energy and will last 25 times longer than a comparable incandescent bulb.
3. Look for LEDs that are airtight and rated for contact with insulation (ICAT rated). This will allow for airtight insulation around the cans, preventing air leakage that robs homes of heated or cooled air. 
4. Put the lights on a dimmer. Adjusting the brightness whenever full-intensity light isn’t needed saves energy and money.

The Halo SLD Series by Eaton’s Lighting Division is an ultra-low profile LED surface mounting luminaire with the performance and appearance of a traditional downlight. The Halo LED downlight product line had the first ENERGY STAR-certified LED downlight in 2009.

In April 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) honored Eaton as an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year.

Need more information on how to save energy and money through your lighting design? Download Eaton’s Halo LED tool kit and other resources at no cost.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy