8/2/2020 5 Tips to use Recessed Downlights for Perfect Layout | LEDs Magazine

5 Tips to use Recessed Downlights for Perfect

Layout
Apr 19th, 2019
As we know,recessed Downlights are a modern and unobtrusive way to illuminate your
home. If you are a fan of clean lines and a simple lighting scheme, this fuss-free, space
saving option is a great choice. Well-placed recessed downlights are excellent for general
ambient lighting as well as for more focused task lighting.

Looking to buy recessed downlights?

Some things to consider...

A few 'prep' Questions:
Before you tackle the question of the number of downlights and their positioning ask
yourself the following:

How large is the room?

How high is the ceiling?
Is it one room or an open plan space?
How will you use the room?
Are there any areas within the room which require special focus?
Armed with this information you can then follow some simple steps:

1, How many downlights do I require?

The general consensus for selecting the number of downlights required is as follows:

Step 1 – Measure the square footage of the room by multiplying its width by its depth.
Step 2 – Multiply this square footage by 1.5. This will give you a guideline for the total
wattage required to light the space. By way of an example, if your kitchen is 16ft x 17 ft, the
total square footage is 272. Multiply this gure by 1.5 and the total wattage to light your
room will be 408 .
Step 3 – Select the bulb and wattage you want to use. Divide the total wattage gure
previously calculated, 408 in our example, by the bulb wattage you intend to use and this
will give you the number of xtures required.
Please note that this is a rough guide and an experienced electrician should be able to give
you further guidelines when completing the installation. The layout of your lighting may
also vary in relation to your personal preference and the tone you want to create in the
room.

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If your room is open plan, divide each area up into ‘separate’ spaces to make your
calculations. If you choose LED downlights check on the packaging for their equivalent
wattage.
Recessed lighting Layout

2, Ceiling Height
Light from your recessed tting is thrown in a downward direction in the shape of a cone.
The cones of light normally cross at least 30 inches from the oor. From a taller ceiling,
the light will intersect at a higher level so you won’t require more downlights, just a
brighter wattage.

3, Spacing
Position your recessed downlights approximately 2 feet away from the edge of your walls
onto your ceilings as a starting point. Try to avoid creating any shadows. Then space your
downlights evenly across the room for a balanced look. As a rule of thumb, we suggest you
divide your ceiling height by 2 to give you the space required between each downlight. For
example if your ceiling is 8 foot high, then position your lights 4 feet apart. Again, this is
only a guideline and you will get a feel for what works best in your individual space.

4, Dimming
Choosing downlights that can be dimmed is always a smart move. You can then play with
the light to set the mood. If you have an open-plan space, use dimmer switches to control
the different zones to give additional exibility.

5, Task Lighting
For focused task lighting, for example above a kitchen work surface where food
preparation takes place, use a downlight with a narrower beam angle. You can mix and
match your beam angles for ambient and task lighting.

If you are using downlights in an area in which they could come in contact with water,
don’t forget to choose an IP rated option.

We hope this article will give you a few handy tips for positioning your downlights. Room
shape, style and nish and whether you want a cool white or a warm white light will also
need to be factored in when making your choice.
Contact:

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Annie Green
annie@aisledlight.com
Email:
annie@aisledlight.com
Web site:
https://www.aisledlight.com/g23-led-light-g24-led-bulb/

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