


#UTILITECH RECESSED LIGHTING INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FREE#
You can get limited free access to the NEC via NFPA’s web site. The switch we show in our example is rated for 600 watts.Ĭonsiderations for extending a circuit: You may be able to branch off of an existing circuit so long as you do not exceed the total allowed number of fixtures on the circuit.Ĭode: Most jurisdictions follow some variation of the National Electric Code. 400-600 watt limits are normal for dimmer switches.

Switches, especially dimmer switches, may have a lower wattage limit than the overall breaker.This means you could theoretically have fourteen 100 watt recessed lights on a single circuit. A 15 amp, 110 volt circuit may be loaded up to 1430 watts (80% of 15amps = 13amps 13 amps*110 volts = 1430 watts). Most fixtures are rated by wattage, rather than amperage.Some jurisdictions may also impose a limit on the number of individual fixtures on a circuit.Circuits may be loaded up to 80% of their nominal capacity, meaning that a 15 amp circuit can have 13 amps of loading, and a 20 amp circuit can have 16 amps of loading.20 amp circuits require 12 gauge wire 15 amps circuits allow for less expensive 14 gauge wire.Most lighting circuits in homes are either 15 or 20 amps.Here’s some basic facts you should consider when installing recessed lights: In this mock-up installation, I’m using only two recessed cans that are on a dedicated circuit with a single, 15 amp breaker and a dimmer switch. You can usually find where to file for permits via links on your county government’s or state government’s licensing and permits web page. In some jurisdictions, only licensed master electricians can obtain these permits. While not required for a tabletop demonstration, most jurisdictions will require you to obtain a permit for electrical work that includes a new or extended circuit. Steps to Wire Recessed Lights Step 1: Obtain the Appropriate Electrical Permits Click here or on the image below for the full, undivided image of the table top. The pictures below shows components of my entire table top “system” of new-work, recessed lights, starting at the circuit breaker on the left, and going all the way back to the last recessed can on the right.

Recessed lighting is a very popular home improvement project, and this article will help you better understand the wiring components of this job. In that effort, I’ve put together a table top mock up for wiring recessed lights, along with steps and thoughts for running this lighting setup in a real home environment. I’m not sure about you, but I learn best by seeing how something is done and then doing it myself.
