How does recessed lighting affect my energy efficiency?

November 23, 2021

Recessed lighting, or "can lights", are a popular upgrade in many homes.  The soft glow can provide a perfect ambiance. But what are the downsides?  Can lights can impact the energy efficiency of your home!

But don't worry - there are easy solutions to keep the high end lights and win back your home's energy efficiency. 

Upgrade to light fixtures that are newer models or LED.

Older mode fixtures are energy intensive for the following reasons:

1. They are not approved for insulation contact so insulation has to be kept at least 3 inches away all the way around, leaving about 1 square foot of uninsulated ceiling space. 
2. Most require incandescent bulbs that use 3 to 5 times the power of fluorescents and add to air-conditioning loads by letting off heat. 
3. They are not airtight, so they allow conditioned air to escape from the living area into unconditioned spaces such as attics.

Newer models of light fixtures are safe and approved to be installed with proper attic insulation.

Install can light covers with your older fixtures

Rather than replacing older fixtures, Koala Insulation can seal each recessed light fixture with a fire proof cover and seal it with commercial fire proof caulking that seals and adheres them where the cover housing meets the drywall. This allows proper insulation in the attic and seals the light fixtures from leaking air and dust between the living space and the attic. 

If you have multiple recessed lights in your home, call Koala Insulation of St. Louis to improve the efficiency of your home.

Contact Koala Insulation of St. Louis, your local insulation contractor, today to solve the mystery of your hot or cold room! 

Call Today: (314)-279-5064

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