What is isulation compatible downlight?

Importance of IC rated recessed light

Are you still contemplating whether you should purchase an IC rated recessed light? The following are the reasons why IC rated is important.

1. Safety

This is the most important reason. IC rated recessed lights are the safest type. As mentioned earlier, the IC rating ensures that fire hazards have zero chance of occurrence.

2. Save money

By using IC rated recessed lighting, you rid yourself of unnecessary repair costs and the need to have an electrician frequently check the light fixtures. This is because IC rated fixtures reduce moisture condensation, a common cause for many electrical problems.

3. Efficiency

Since the fixtures are covered with insulation, IC rated recessed lights save more energy because no heat is lost through the fixtures. In addition, IC rated lighting fixtures minimize the problem of blinking lights, a problem linked to overheating bulbs.

Differences between non-IC rated and non-IC rated recessed lights

ic-rated-recessed-lighting-vs-non-ic-ratedHaving looked at what IC rating means and how it works, let us also look at the difference between recessed lights with IC rating and those without IC rating.

1. Usage

In order to allow proper flow of heat, a non-IC rated recessed light should not come into contact with the insulation in the ceiling. There should always be a 3-inch space to allow a proper flow of heat. However, this can be a challenge when the ceiling does not have insulation such as unfinished attics and remodels.

On the other hand, IC rated luminaires have a wider application than non-IC rated lighting since they can be used in ceilings that are insulated as well as ceilings with no insulation.

2. Price

Non-IC rated recessed lights are cheaper than IC rated products. This can be attributed to the fact that IC rated lighting offers more safety than the non-IC rated lightings.

3. Appearance

Non-IC rated fixtures are white in color while the IC rated ones are silver in color. The latest IC rated fixtures have insulation around any holes and are also known as Insulation Contact Air Tight (ICAT) rated.