Can You Insulate Around Recessed Lights

Insulation should be kept away from recessed can lights because the insulation does not allow the heat generated by the lights to dissipate.

Can you insulate around recessed lights.

Smartcap attic recessed light cover is a pre assembled easy to install fire rated recessed light cover that simply unfolds into a perfect cap over non ic rated attic light fixtures requiring a 3 gap between fixture and insulation. In order to cover your recessed light cans with insulation you need to have ic rated insulation contact cans installed regardless of the type of light installed in the can. The heat that recessed lights produce can affect temperature in the attic and in the room in which they shine. These fixtures are sealed to stop airflow.

However if you want them use type ic airtight fixtures available at lighting stores and home centers. If you have recessed lighting in your ceiling it can get in the way when you want to insulate the attic because the canisters might get hot enough to ignite the insulation. Since you mentioned your cans have holes in them they are most definitely not ic rated. Go to a home center and buy a fire rated recessed light cover like the ones made by tenmat for every fixture.

When heat builds up in a recessed can light it can. You could hire an electrician to replace each fixture with a sealed one rated for insulation contact ic. If you re lucky you can pull the old mounting bracket out through the existing hole. You can insulate more effectively if the cans are ic rated.

Replacement can be challenging. Make your next attic insulation project that much easier by adding a smartcap attic recessed light cover to your list of hard working insulation accessories. But here s another solution which you can do yourself.