ASK THE EXPERT
Q: What is the best size of lights to use in a kitchen?
A: Recessed can lights are available in different sizes, each used for various reasons. The most common size is the 6-inch can. A 6-inch can will light a larger area than a 4-inch can, is the most functional and is commonly used to light most rooms, including bathrooms. A 4-inch can is commonly used as accent lighting or for lighting art. On a 4-inch light, with the addition of a 4-inch eyeball, the light can be directed to drench a wall with light or highlight a fine piece of art.
Q: How are canned lights rated?
A: Recessed can lights are rated according to use. Be sure to use an IC-rated can when limited for space between insulation and framing, because it is manufactured to operate at a lower temperature to ensure safe operation. “IC” is an abbreviation for “In Contact." This can is rated to be in contact with framing and insulation.
Q: My dimmer light gets really hot. Is that dangerous?
A: If you have a dimmer that seems to be extremely hot, be sure to have a licensed electrician take a look at it. Don’t be alarmed if your dimmer is warm to the touch…this is normal. The dimmer component restricts the amount of energy that is carried from the dimmer switch to the light bulb, which causes friction, which causes heat. Make sure that your dimmer is rated to accommodate the quantity of lights that it serves. There are 300-watt, 600-watt and 1,000-watt dimmers. Be sure to use the appropriate dimmer switch.
Q: Construction and remodeling projects are messy. How can that be avoided?
A: Few contractors make a conscientious effort to be clean. "Kitchen Lights" goes the extra mile to contain the mess in one neat envelope…the "plastic envelope." Yes, it takes our crews extra time to construct this barrier of plastic, but it is our way of respecting your home.
Q: My ceiling has ugly flat panel fluorescent lighting. I want recessed lighting, but the way the existing lighting is done, there will be huge empty gaps between light cans. What can I do?
A: You don't have to have the empty well left from the fluorescent fixtures; it can be covered with sheetrock as shown below. Move the mouse over the photo to see a before version.
Comments
I had just completed a major kitchen remodel and it was obvious I needed some professional help with my ceiling
lights. I had fluorescent lights that made my new kitchen look old. I contacted Kitchen Lights by Michael J Dove and was told
I could have a free estimate the next afternoon.
The next day I was impressed with ideas and the thoroughness of the estimate. We agreed on a date and time the crew could come and I was delighted with the low price. I was impressed how everything was prepared for work, started, and cleaned in the same day.
I would suggest Michael J. Dove for any and all lighting needs.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Myers, Mission Viejo
Lighting Facts
The kitchen can be a pretty dreary place, especially when you have poor light. Can you imagine cooking dinner and when a family member asks, "What's for dinner?" you can only say, "I don't know, I can't see what I'm cooking!"
Reading a recipe with small print can be a difficult task. Try reading grandmother’s script, it's nearly illegible. Great lighting can actually make it possible for you to read a recipe.
Call Us
Schedule a time for one of our lighting experts to visit your home. We'll present ideas to improve your lighting in any room.
Call us today at 877 468-7822.