LED Recessed DownLight Retrofits
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ON SALE - 6 Inch Recessed Lighting Can Retrofits
LED Retrofit Lights for 4 and 6 Inch Recessed Cans
LED Directional Retrofit Downlight 4" & 6" Gimbal
3 Inch LED Recessed Downlight
LED Ultra Slim Recessed Light - Edge Lit Trims
LED Square Slim Recessed Light - Edge Lit
LED Wafer Style Retrofits
LED Eyeball Direct Wire Recessed Light
LED Direct Wire Downlights
Multi Head Recessed Lights
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LED Square Trim Recessed Downlight Retrofit
Recessed Housings
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LED Recessed DownLight Retrofits Trending Guides
Q1: What Is a Recessed Can and Why Does It Matter with LED Lighting?
Q2: What is the difference between new construction and remodel recessed lighting?
Q3: What does it mean for recessed lights to be IC rated?
Q4: Will these retrofit lights fit in my existing recessed cans or housings?
Q5: Can I still use recessed lighting without a can?
Q6: What trims are available with a recessed retrofit LED?
Q7: Is professional installation required or DIY friendly for can lights?
Q8: If I’m buying for a whole house, what discounts or trade pricing do you offer?
Q9: How many lights do I need per room and what spacing is recommended?
GUIDE 1: The Basics Of Recessed Cans And LED Retrofit Lighting
A recessed can is a metal housing installed above the ceiling that supports recessed lighting trims, LED retrofit modules, or dedicated LED downlight inserts. It provides a secure mounting platform, protects wiring connections, and creates a controlled environment for heat dissipation and airflow.
With LED lighting, the housing plays a more active role than it did with traditional incandescent or halogen lamps. LEDs are more energy efficient, but they are also sensitive to heat buildup. A properly designed recessed can helps manage heat, supports airflow where required, and ensures that LED downlights maintain their rated lumen output and lifespan over time.
Poor housing selection can result in installation issues, reduced LED performance, air leakage, or compatibility problems when upgrading or replacing LED modules in the future.
GUIDE 2: The Difference Between New Construction and Remodel Recessed Lighting
One of the first decisions when selecting recessed cans is whether the project is new construction or a remodel. New construction recessed cans are designed for installations where ceiling framing is accessible. These housings feature adjustable bar hangers that attach directly to joists, allowing precise positioning before drywall is installed. New construction cans are commonly used in new homes, commercial builds, additions, and major renovations where layout accuracy is critical for LED downlight spacing.
Remodel recessed cans are intended for existing ceilings. These housings use internal remodel clips or retention springs that secure the can directly to drywall, eliminating the need for attic or plenum access. Remodel cans are ideal for LED retrofit projects where the ceiling is already finished and minimal disruption is desired.
GUIDE 3: The Importance Of IC Ratings In Recessed Housings
IC-rated recessed cans are approved for direct contact with insulation. This rating is especially important in modern construction, where insulation is often installed tightly around ceiling cavities to meet energy codes. LED downlights generate less heat than traditional lamps, but insulation contact can still affect airflow and thermal performance. IC-rated housings ensure that LED fixtures can operate safely in insulated ceilings without overheating or violating building codes. For most residential and light commercial applications, IC-rated recessed cans are considered the standard.
GUIDE 4: Knowing Which Recessed Retrofit Will Fit Your Existing Cans
Recessed cans are available in multiple aperture sizes to match different LED downlight formats. Common sizes include 2-inch, 3-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch housings. To find out which size you need, simply measure the inside diameter of the opening in the housing. In some cases, a 6 inch retrofit may also accommodate the less common 5 inch cans.
Smaller housings are typically used for accent lighting, task lighting, and architectural applications where a minimal ceiling footprint is desired. Larger housings are used for general illumination and higher-lumen LED downlights in living spaces, offices, and commercial interiors. Selecting the correct can size ensures proper fit, secure mounting, and optimal light distribution for the chosen LED downlight.
GUIDE 5: Installing Recessed Lighting Without The Need For A Housing
Canless LED downlights have gained popularity for their low-profile design and ease of installation, especially in shallow ceilings. However, recessed cans remain the preferred solution in many applications where flexibility, serviceability, and long-term adaptability are priorities.
Recessed housings allow LED trims or modules to be replaced or upgraded without altering the ceiling opening. This makes them ideal for projects where future lighting changes, maintenance access, or evolving design preferences are expected
GUIDE 6: Different Style Trims You Can Choose With Your LED Recessed Retrofit
Recessed LED retrofit lights come in a variety of trim styles to match both function and aesthetics:
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Baffle trim – Reduces glare, common in living spaces
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Smooth trim – Clean, modern appearance
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Gimbal / adjustable trim – Directional lighting for accent or task lighting
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Reflector trim – Higher light output, often used in kitchens or commercial spaces
Finishes typically include white, black, brushed nickel, and bronze, depending on the model.
GUIDE 7: DIY Friendly Installations With Recessed LED Retrofit
Most LED recessed retrofit lights are DIY‑friendly.
Typical installation involves:
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Turning off power
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Removing the old bulb and trim
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Screwing in the LED adapter
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Securing the fixture with clips or springs
Professional installation may be recommended if:
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Wiring modifications are needed
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You’re converting from non‑recessed lighting
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The project involves many fixtures across multiple rooms
GUIDE 8: Bulk Discounts When Retrofitting Large Areas Or Multiple Rooms
Superior Lighting always encourages their customers to call in to our sales team for bulk discounts. We can also help make sure you are getting the exact model to fit your needs, and even find models that we do not advertise online. Simply dial 1-800-432-7995 and dial for commercial sales.
Keep in mind, items that are already on clearance do not apply towards further discounts, and prices online can change without notice. Clearance items are models that we carry in stock at our warehouse, and may not be available again after we sell out.
GUIDE 9: Calculating The Amount Of Recessed Lights Needed For An Area
A general guideline for recessed lighting spacing is:
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4" fixtures: every 4–5 feet
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5" or 6" fixtures: every 5–6 feet
Other factors to consider:
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Ceiling height
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Room purpose (task vs ambient lighting)
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Lumens per fixture
As a rule of thumb:
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Divide ceiling height by two to estimate spacing distance
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Add more fixtures for kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces
Proper spacing ensures even light distribution without dark spots or excessive brightness.