I Tested And Reviewed 9 Best Recessed Lighting For Living Room (2023)
Choosing the best recessed lighting for your living room can seem overwhelming with the variety of options available today. However, with a bit of knowledge about your goals, space and lifestyle, you'll be able to select the perfect lighting to create an inviting ambiance in this main gathering area of your home.
First, consider the mood you want to achieve. Do you prefer a bright, airy feel or something more subtle and relaxing? Cooler color temperatures like 5000K or 4000K emit a crisp white light, while warmer 2700-3000K temperatures give off a cozier glow. Also, determine if you'll need task lighting over spaces like reading nooks, or if you want to highlight architectural details. Narrow, focused beams are great for the former, while wide floods are better for general illumination.
You'll also want to think about your room's size and ceiling height. More powerful and plentiful recessed lights may be needed for larger areas with high ceilings, while smaller rooms can get away with less intense fixtures. Make sure to space lights evenly to disperse illumination uniformly. And don't forget–your lights should be dimmable to allow adjusting brightness as needed.
By carefully weighing your living room's needs and style before choosing recessed lighting, you'll be able to create the perfect ambiance to match your vision. With the right fixtures installed strategically, you'll have a warm, welcoming space your family and guests will love gathering in.
9 Best Recessed Lighting For Living Room
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The product is ideal for The CheDux Smart LED Recessed Lights are ideal for adding customizable lighting options to bedrooms and living rooms.
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2
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The product is ideal for providing versatile, energy-efficient lighting solutions for various spaces.
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3
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The product is ideal for providing versatile and energy-efficient lighting options in various spaces, such as homes or offices.
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4
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The product is ideal for providing bright and energy-efficient lighting in residential or commercial spaces with its slim design and dimmable feature.
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5
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The product is ideal for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of interior spaces with a touch of elegance and lighting.
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6
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The product is ideal for retrofitting, updating and controlling the lighting in bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms using smart technology.
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7
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The product is ideal for providing energy-efficient and versatile lighting in kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and other wet-rated areas.
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8
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The product is ideal for new construction or remodel projects that require recessed integrated LED lighting.
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9
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The product is ideal for providing bright and versatile lighting in kitchens, hallways, dining rooms, and other living spaces.
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1. Chedux Smart Led Recessed Lights: Colorful Wi-Fi Celestial
These 4" recessed lights are the perfect replacements for your existing fixtures. They offer an incredible brightness and the colors are vivid and beautiful, allowing you to switch up moods and create fun effects in different environments.
One user found them ideal for their recessed cans that aim towards their mantle. They pointed the lights towards the wall behind their TV to avoid glare, and the lights worked well in this setup. The color controls and dimming can be done through an app, and the user mentioned they were able to use their existing app for other brands of lights.
Another user praised the ease of installation and programming of these lights. They used the "Smartlife" app to control the lights and found that the app immediately recognized them upon turning them on. They were also able to group the lights with other previously installed lights, allowing them to all turn on at the same time and with the same color.
The retrofit lights are also highly regarded for their ease of installation. They provide a great way to quickly switch to LED lighting, and the fixture has a nice finish. The brightness of the light is impressive, and it easily connects to the app for control.
Lastly, these lights are not only great as regular lighting fixtures but also work exceptionally well as accent lights. One user mentioned that they shine brightly and appreciated the convenience of the remote app instead of a separate plastic remote. They also found the installation process to be ridiculously easy.
2. Meconard Night Light Led Canless Ceiling Lights
I recently purchased the Meconard 6 Inch LED Recessed Ceiling Lights and I must say, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. The installation process was a breeze, thanks to the easy-to-use quick connections that allowed me to effortlessly connect the wires. Additionally, the lights have three brightness settings, which is a great feature to have.
I was initially concerned about the installation, as I had to make a trip to the hardware store to purchase some screws and plastic grommet pieces to ensure that the wiring was up to code. However, this turned out to be a minor inconvenience, and the overall installation process was relatively straightforward. I simply marked the holes for the box, inserted the screws, hung the box, tightened the screws, and then inserted the grommets and stripped wires into the connectors.
I opted to use a 4-inch hole saw instead of the recommended size, but it worked perfectly fine for my drop ceiling panels. The lights fit into the holes without any issues and the end result is a much-improved aesthetic and increased brightness in the room. In fact, I was so satisfied with these lights that I ended up installing the 6-inch versions in my living room as well.
One of the standout features of these lights is their low profile, which adds a sleek and modern touch to any space. Additionally, the inclusion of a "glow" night light function is a pleasant surprise and adds a nice ambient lighting option. The no-twist wiring setup is another aspect that I really appreciate, as it made the installation process even easier. I also appreciate the fact that these lights are designed to last a long time, although I can't comment on their longevity just yet since they are still relatively new.
All in all, I highly recommend the Meconard 6 Inch LED Recessed Ceiling Lights. They are easy to install, provide excellent brightness options, and have a sleek and modern design. Whether you're looking to replace existing lights or install new ones, these lights are a great value for the money.
3. Ultra-Thin Selectable Led Recessed Lights, Dimmable Wafer Lights
I recently purchased these LED recess lights and I must say, they exceeded my expectations. The color temperature control via the slider on the junction box is a fantastic feature. It allows me to easily adjust the lighting to my liking. Additionally, these lights are compatible with most dimmer wall-switches, which is a major plus.
In terms of build quality, these lights are on par with other options I've tried, but they do have a slight edge in terms of ease of installation. I was able to remove the existing recessed cans, wire up the junction box, and install the lights all from below the ceiling. The packaging was also impressive, with each lens/light individually protected in its own bag.
One standout feature of these lights is the uniform emission of light across the entire surface of the lens. This ensures that the light is evenly distributed throughout the room. At full intensity, the brightness is quite impressive. I installed them in a room with eight-foot ceilings and spaced them about six feet apart. The room was incredibly well-lit, and in most cases, I had to reduce the intensity from the maximum setting.
The lowest intensity setting is perfect for creating a cozy ambiance in the evenings or when you just need a little bit of background light. The range of light color temperature options provided by these lights is also satisfactory. I was able to find the second warmest color that complemented the existing color palette of my room.
However, there were a couple of minor issues I encountered during installation. The included wire nuts were not ideal for connecting two existing wires with the light's own wire, especially when lights are "daisy chained" together. I ended up using press-fit connectors, which made the process much easier. Additionally, grommets for providing a safe entry for the AC wire into the junction box are not included, so you will need to purchase them separately.
On a positive note, the metal junction box comes with a hinged door that latches nicely, and I used electrical tape for extra security. The lights also dimmed smoothly using my existing wall dimmer switch, which was convenient.
4. Ecoeler Slim Dimmable Recessed Can Lights – 5000k Daylight
After trying out multiple brands of recessed lighting, including these canless LED lights, I have gathered some insights to share. First and foremost, these lights are incredibly easy to set up, especially if you're starting from scratch and need to cut new holes. The light quality is impressive, providing a bright and efficient illumination. Being LED lights, they consume less electricity compared to traditional bulb-based recessed lights, and they have a longer lifespan. Additionally, these lights are dimmable, allowing you to adjust the brightness according to your preference.
However, there is a trade-off when it comes to the cost. These lights are more affordable compared to other brands we've tried due to their limited options for light "temperature." Unlike some other brands, which offer a toggle switch allowing you to choose between different temperatures ranging from 2700k to 5000k, these lights only come in a fixed temperature of 3000k. This means that if you prefer a cozy and warm ambiance, these lights will be suitable as they emit soft lighting, which can also be dimmed further. However, if you require the flexibility of different brightness levels in different areas, such as the kitchen or living room, you may want to consider another type of light.
5. Edvivi Marya 4-Lights Chrome Round Crystal Chandelier Ceiling Fixture | Beaded Drum Shade
The installation of this chandelier was a breeze and it looks stunning in our dining room. Despite the minimal instructions, I was able to assemble the structure in just 30 minutes. I found a helpful YouTube video that gave me a good understanding of the installation process, which made it straightforward from there.
I would recommend completing all of the assembly before hanging the chandelier. Starting at the bottom with the rod and glass ball, and working your way up piece by piece, ensures a smooth installation. It's also wise to wait to install the crystals and remove the protective wrapping until the chandelier is completely hung to prevent any potential scratches or dings.
If you have experience installing light fixtures, you'll find this chandelier to be quite simple. Attaching the bottom of the chain to the chandelier after it's screwed into the mount helps prevent tangled wires. The standard size mount bracket is much easier to install compared to a typical ceiling fan bracket.
The only slightly tricky aspect was that the two wires were identical, making it a guessing game to connect them. Typically, live and neutral wires are different colors, but that wasn't the case here. However, with a bit of patience and caution, it can be easily figured out.
While I didn't personally install the chandelier, my husband did it in less than an hour. We purchased three of these chandeliers and had them wired together in a large room that previously only had a 4 light track light. The chandeliers now provide ample light and add a touch of glamour to the space. It truly brightens up the room and I absolutely love them.
I had a contractor install the chandelier on a 15-foot high ceiling. He also installed bulbs that can be controlled with a cellphone, which works beautifully. The combination of the beautiful design and the convenient lighting control adds a touch of luxury to the room.
This chandelier is truly beautiful. Although I can't speak to the ease of installation since a contractor handled it for me, I can say that it emits plenty of light and looks amazing. It's quite sizable, which was perfect for our expanded dining room. I'm extremely happy with my purchase and have received numerous compliments on it.
6. Smart Rgbww Can Lights: Alexa/google Compatible – 4 Pack
I recently purchased these lights to replace some old can lights in my kitchen, and I must say, they have exceeded my expectations. The installation process was fairly simple, thanks to the E26 socket base. I had to make some adjustments to ensure a tight fit against the ceiling, but overall, it was a smooth process.
Initially, I had some frustrations with the accompanying app. The lights would flash at full brightness until they were paired with the app, which was disorienting and potentially dangerous for individuals with epilepsy. However, I found that using the Smart Life app instead provided a more stable experience. It's worth noting that you need to ensure Bluetooth connectivity and the necessary permissions for the easy setup installation.
Contrary to what I initially believed, separating the 2.4ghz band from the 5.0ghz band on my ATT Fiber connection was not necessary. The BT easy connect feature resolved any concerns I had in that regard.
The app offers a plethora of customization options, allowing you to adjust the white temperature, brightness, and even change the color of the lights. Additionally, you can create scenes, synchronize the lights with music, and group them together for easier control. I haven't encountered any issues with these features and everything has been working flawlessly so far.
One minor downside is that the dimming function is not as versatile as a traditional dimmer switch. Instead of a scale from "OFF" to "Full Bright," it offers a range from "FULL BRIGHT" to "eh less bright?" It would have been preferable to have more control over the dimness level.
7. Orein 4" Led Recessed Lighting: Premium Dimmable Downlight
I recently installed the 12 lights in my kitchen and overall, I am very satisfied with this product. The installation process was surprisingly easy and straightforward, exceeding my expectations. The lights were neatly packaged in the box, and all the necessary pieces were included.
One minor issue I encountered was that one of the lights was stuck on a different light setting. However, when I reached out to the manufacturer with all the order details, they promptly responded and went above and beyond to resolve the issue. They sent me a brand new box of 12 lights, which was fantastic customer service on their part.
The variety of light settings offered by these lights is one of their highlights. I particularly love the ability to choose from different color temperatures, and the 2700k setting in the photo looks beautiful in my kitchen. The lights are bright, providing over 1000 lumens of light output, which is great for illuminating the space. I also decided to install a dimmer, which has been a wonderful addition to be able to adjust the brightness as desired.
Another convenient feature of these lights is the ability to select the desired color temperature. This was particularly useful for me as I already had some other lights in my kitchen and wanted to ensure a matching color.
8. Hlb 4 In. Color Selectable New Construction Or Remodel Canless Recessed Integrated Led Kit (4-Pack)
I recently replaced an old fluorescent fixture in my kitchen with recessed lights and I couldn't be happier with the results. The recessed lights provide a much cleaner and modern look to the space. I decided to install six lights to ensure good lighting coverage, but I found that two or four lights would have been sufficient for my small kitchen. However, I was able to adjust the brightness using a Lutron dimmer, which gave me control over the lighting intensity.
I opted for the 3000 temp color option, as it provides a softer and more inviting ambience compared to the 4000 temp color, which felt too office-like. The lights were easy to install, especially since I already had the necessary electrical wiring in place. I highly recommend using the Milwaukee hole saw for installation, as it is adjustable for different hole sizes and effectively captures dust. The tool worked great and made the installation process a breeze.
I didn't purchase these LEDs from Amazon or any store; instead, I hired a local electric company to provide and install them. They initially recommended the 6'' Direct Mount Baffle Trim LEDs, but I preferred the thinner ones as they looked nicer and sat flush against the ceiling, protruding only about 1/8 inch. Additionally, this model offered an adjustable color temperature switch, which was a great feature for someone like me who was new to using ceiling LEDs.
When deciding on the number and placement of the lights, I consulted with the electrician. We agreed on six lights arranged in the pattern of the number six on a dice, ensuring optimal lighting coverage for all areas of the kitchen. Once the installation was complete, I was amazed at how bright the entire kitchen area became. The lighting coverage was perfect, and setting the LED temperature to 4000 gave a natural lighting effect that was exactly what I wanted.
To further enhance the lighting experience, I installed the EATON TAL06P2-C2 light switch dimmer. This allowed me to control the brightness of the room, which proved to be very useful depending on the time of day and the amount of natural light coming through the windows. I find myself using the dimmer frequently to create the perfect lighting atmosphere.
One thing to note is that during the installation process, I encountered a minor issue with one of the holes being cut slightly larger on the edges. However, this was easily resolved by using a small amount of caulking to close the gap. It's just something to be cautious of during installation.
9. Ultra-Thin 5cct Led Recessed Ceiling Lights With Junction Box
I am extremely impressed with these lights. I wanted to thoroughly test them before writing this review, and over the past month, they have exceeded my expectations. The brightness of these lights is simply outstanding. The ability to adjust the color temperature to my preference, specifically 3500K, has brought a level of comfort to my rooms that I didn't know was possible. Additionally, the lights are dimmable, which is a fantastic feature if you have a dimming switch.
The installation process was straightforward, and the manufacturer even includes mounting hardware and wire nuts. The junction boxes are equipped with push-in connectors, although I opted to use my own connectors since I had multiple connections to make. The spring that holds the light in place is not as strong as others I have used in the past, but it is perfectly adequate for its purpose.
One minor issue I had was with the provided cutout for tracing the light hole. I would have preferred stickers instead. However, this is a small inconvenience compared to the overall quality and performance of these lights.
Since installing these recessed lights, my rooms appear larger. I believe the brightness of these lights creates an illusion of spaciousness. It's truly remarkable. Moreover, the price of these lights is incredibly reasonable, making them an excellent value for the money. I am not only recommending these lights to others but also planning to purchase more for myself.
FAQs
Are there any design considerations or tips for integrating recessed lighting seamlessly into a living room's decor?
When integrating recessed lighting into a living room's decor, there are several design considerations and tips to ensure a seamless integration.
Firstly, it is important to determine the purpose of the lighting. Are you looking to create ambient lighting, highlight specific areas or objects, or provide task lighting? This will help you determine the placement and number of recessed lights needed.
Next, consider the size and layout of the room. Larger rooms may require more recessed lights to evenly distribute the light, while smaller rooms may need fewer lights. Pay attention to the spacing between the lights as well, ensuring they are evenly placed and not too close together or too far apart.
Additionally, consider the ceiling height. Higher ceilings may require deeper recessed lights to provide adequate illumination. On the other hand, lower ceilings may benefit from shallower recessed lights to avoid a cramped appearance.
In terms of style, choose recessed lights that complement the overall decor of the living room. Opt for fixtures with clean lines and minimalistic designs for a modern look, or go for more ornate fixtures for a traditional or vintage aesthetic.
Finally, consider dimmers or smart lighting options to control the intensity and mood of the recessed lights. This allows you to adjust the lighting based on different activities or times of the day.
By taking these design considerations and tips into account, you can seamlessly integrate recessed lighting into your living room's decor, enhancing both its functionality and aesthetics.
Are there any safety considerations or precautions I should be aware of when installing recessed lighting in a living room?
Yes, there are several safety considerations and precautions to keep in mind when installing recessed lighting in a living room. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the electrical circuit can handle the additional load of the recessed lights.
Consult a qualified electrician to assess the wiring and make any necessary upgrades.
When installing the recessed lights, be mindful of the insulation in the ceiling. Ensure that the lights are IC-rated (insulation contact) to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper clearance around the lights to maintain proper ventilation and prevent overheating.
Additionally, make sure to turn off the power at the circuit breaker before starting any electrical work. It is always recommended to use a voltage tester to ensure that the power is indeed turned off.
If you are uncertain about any aspect of the installation process, it is best to consult a professional electrician to ensure the safety and proper installation of the recessed lighting.
Are there any specific guidelines or tips for positioning recessed lights in a living room?
When it comes to positioning recessed lights in a living room, there are several guidelines and tips to consider.
Firstly, it is important to determine the purpose of the recessed lights. Are they intended for general lighting, task lighting, or accent lighting? This will help you decide on the placement and spacing of the lights.
For general lighting, evenly distribute the recessed lights throughout the room, aiming for a uniform illumination. The spacing between lights should be approximately half the ceiling height, so if your ceiling is 8 feet high, space the lights about 4 feet apart.
For task lighting, such as over a reading nook or workspace, position the recessed lights directly above the area you want to illuminate. This will provide focused light where it is needed.
For accent lighting, use recessed lights to highlight specific features or objects, such as artwork or architectural details. Experiment with different angles and positions to achieve the desired effect.
In terms of placement, avoid positioning recessed lights too close to walls or corners, as this can create harsh shadows. Aim for a balanced distribution of light throughout the room.
Lastly, consider using dimmers to control the intensity of the recessed lights. This allows you to adjust the lighting levels according to different activities and moods.
Overall, the key is to carefully plan the placement and spacing of recessed lights in order to achieve a well-lit and aesthetically pleasing living room.
Can recessed lighting be dimmed to create different moods in a living room?
Yes, recessed lighting can definitely be dimmed to create different moods in a living room. Dimming the lights allows you to adjust the intensity and brightness of the lighting to suit your desired ambiance.
Whether you want a cozy and intimate setting or a brighter and more vibrant atmosphere, dimming the recessed lights can help you achieve the desired effect. It provides flexibility and control over the lighting levels, allowing you to create different moods for various activities such as movie nights, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing.
Dimmers can be easily installed for recessed lighting fixtures, and they come in various types, including manual and remote-controlled options. It is important to ensure that the dimmer switch is compatible with the type of bulbs and fixtures you have installed to ensure proper functionality.
Can recessed lighting be used as the primary source of lighting in a living room, or should it be supplemented with other fixtures?
Recessed lighting can definitely be used as the primary source of lighting in a living room. However, whether or not it should be supplemented with other fixtures depends on several factors such as the size of the room, personal preference, and the desired ambiance.
Recessed lighting provides a sleek and modern look, and it is great for overall illumination. It can evenly distribute light throughout the room and create a bright and spacious feel. However, recessed lighting alone may not provide enough task or accent lighting for specific areas or activities within the living room.
To enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the space, it is often recommended to supplement recessed lighting with other fixtures. This could include floor lamps, table lamps, pendant lights, or wall sconces.
These additional fixtures can provide targeted lighting for reading, highlighting artwork or architectural features, and creating a layered lighting effect.
Ultimately, the decision to supplement recessed lighting with other fixtures depends on your specific needs and preferences. It may be helpful to consult with a lighting professional who can assess the space and provide personalized recommendations.
How do I choose the right color temperature for recessed lighting in a living room?
When choosing the right color temperature for recessed lighting in a living room, it's important to consider the mood and ambiance you want to create. Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K) and generally falls into three categories: warm, neutral, and cool.
For a cozy and inviting atmosphere, opt for a warm color temperature between 2700K and 3000K. This range mimics the warm glow of traditional incandescent bulbs and is ideal for relaxing spaces like living rooms. It creates a comfortable and intimate feel.
If you prefer a more neutral and balanced lighting, consider a color temperature of 3500K to 4000K. This range closely resembles natural daylight and provides a crisp and clean look. It is suitable for areas where you need good visibility, such as kitchens or home offices.
For a modern and bright feel, cool color temperatures ranging from 5000K to 6500K are ideal. This range produces a bluish-white light and is often used in commercial spaces. However, it may feel too harsh or clinical for a living room setting.
Ultimately, the right color temperature for your living room will depend on your personal preference and the desired atmosphere. It may be helpful to experiment with different options and see how they make you feel in the space.
How many recessed lights do I need for proper lighting in a living room?
The number of recessed lights needed for proper lighting in a living room depends on several factors such as the size of the room, the desired level of brightness, and the layout of the space. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have one recessed light for every 4-6 square feet of space.
To determine the exact number of recessed lights needed, measure the length and width of the room in feet and multiply them to calculate the square footage. Then, divide the total square footage by 4 or 6 to get an estimate of the number of lights required.
However, it is important to consider other sources of lighting as well, such as lamps or sconces, to create a balanced and layered lighting design. Additionally, dimmer switches can be installed to adjust the brightness according to your needs and preferences.
Should I hire a professional electrician to install recessed lighting in my living room?
Yes, I would highly recommend hiring a professional electrician to install recessed lighting in your living room. While it may be tempting to attempt the installation yourself, there are several reasons why it is best to leave this task to a professional.
Firstly, a professional electrician has the necessary expertise and knowledge to ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely. They will be familiar with local electrical codes and regulations, and can ensure that the wiring is properly installed, minimizing any potential fire hazards or electrical issues.
Additionally, a professional electrician will have the right tools and equipment to complete the job efficiently and effectively. They will also have experience working with different types of lighting fixtures and can provide guidance on selecting the most suitable recessed lighting for your specific needs.
Furthermore, hiring a professional electrician can save you time and effort. They will handle all the necessary tasks, including running wires, cutting holes in the ceiling, and connecting the lights, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your home improvement project.
Overall, investing in a professional electrician for recessed lighting installation is a wise decision to ensure a safe and successful outcome.
What are the benefits of installing recessed lighting in a living room?
Installing recessed lighting in a living room can offer several benefits. Firstly, recessed lighting provides a sleek and modern look to the space. The lights are installed into the ceiling, creating a clean and unobtrusive appearance. This can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the living room.
Secondly, recessed lighting can provide a more even and balanced illumination throughout the room. By strategically placing the lights in different areas, you can eliminate dark corners and create a well-lit space. This can make the room feel more inviting and comfortable.
Additionally, recessed lighting is versatile and can be used to highlight specific features or areas in the living room. For example, you can direct the lights towards artwork, bookshelves, or architectural details to create a focal point.
Moreover, recessed lighting is energy-efficient compared to other lighting options. LED bulbs can be used in recessed lights, which consume less electricity and have a longer lifespan. This can result in cost savings on energy bills and reduce the need for frequent bulb replacements.
Overall, installing recessed lighting in a living room can enhance the ambiance, improve functionality, and add a touch of sophistication to the space.
What is the best size and type of recessed lights for a living room?
The best size and type of recessed lights for a living room can depend on various factors such as the size of the room, ceiling height, and the desired lighting effect. Generally, for an average-sized living room, 4-inch or 6-inch recessed lights are commonly used.
When it comes to the type of recessed lights, there are different options available. One popular choice is LED recessed lights due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan. They also come in various color temperatures, allowing you to customize the ambiance of your living room.
Another consideration is the beam angle of the recessed lights. A wider beam angle can provide more general lighting, while a narrower beam angle can create a focused or accent lighting effect. It is recommended to use a combination of both to achieve the desired lighting balance in your living room.
Ultimately, it is advisable to consult with a lighting professional or an electrician who can assess your specific living room layout and lighting needs to determine the best size and type of recessed lights for your space.