Details/Information

Low Voltage Recessed Lighting

3 Inch Trims and Housings	3 Inch Die-Cast Trims and Housings	4 inch Trims and Housings	4 Inch Die-Cast Trims and Housings

We offer a great selection of fixed and adjustable low voltage recessed lights in a variety of sizes; new and remodel construction housings available on many of the models. Need help deciding what size or what style low voltage light to buy? See our helpful tips below…

What trim size do I need?
The trim is the visible part of the light and hence should reflect your style and the application for which it is gong to be used. First you need to pick the size. Trims come in multiple sizes ranging from 3" to 6" in diameter. The size of the trim is a personal preference; however, larger sized trims are able to produce broader amounts of light. Obviously, smaller trims are less conspicuous and are hence often seen to be more modern and architecturally desirable. Again, while the trim size can be based on your aesthetic, some common applications include: 6" trims are still the mainstay for general residential downlight and wall wash illumination, due to their ability to accommodate a wide range of lamps, wattages, and efficient optics. 5" trims have become popular for task lighting and even general lighting in smaller scale settings. 4" line voltage trims are useful for task and accent lighting with short throw distances and/or lower light level requirements, such as over a bar or counter. 4" low voltage MR16 trims have become the choice for inconspicuous yet powerful precision accent lighting.

What trim style should I be looking for?
After you’ve decided on the size, it is then important to understand the style of trim you want. The appropriate style is largely based on the application and the desired effect you are going for:

• Baffle: Baffle trims are the most popular choice of all recessed lighting trims. They are the perfect choice for use in living spaces such as living rooms, dining rooms, dens, bedrooms, etc. These trims feature large uniform grooves which are designed to absorb excess light. Baffles help to reduce glare and are typically offered in two color choices, black or white. Black baffles reduce the most amount of glare from the bulb, while white baffles help to reduce or eliminate the appearance of dark holes in the ceiling.
• Reflector: Reflector trims are the preferred choice for use in kitchens, very high ceilings and commercial applications. Reflector trims use a highly polished smooth interior trim to maximize the amount of light produced from the bulb. These trims are available with multiple tints which can aid in either obscuring the bulb from view, or warming the room.
• Adjustable: Adjustable trims are used in a variety of applications. They can be used in general lighting, task lighting, accent lighting and wall washing. These types of trims allow the bulb to "float" in the housing and give the user the ability to position the bulb to reach a desired area. A benefit to using adjustable trims is that the housing can be installed off center and the trim can compensate for the housings position and still accomplish the desired lighting technique.
• Lensed: Lensed trims are designed to protect the bulb and the interior of the housing from moisture or taking direct hits of water. They are the preferred choice for use in bathrooms, showers, eave lighting and in closets.
• Wall Washed: Wall Wash trims are combinations of a directional reflector and a light "scoop" direct light toward the wall. Most scoop wall washers utilize A-lamp or CFL lamps. Higher wattage commercial style scoop wall washers utilize R/BR Lamps. Scoop wall wash trims are generally spaced 20"- 30" from the wall and 20"- 30" apart.
• Decorative: Decorative trims have become very popular over the last few years. They combine the ability to provide a pleasing look on the ceiling while utilizing a powerful and efficient low voltage halogen bulb.

Note: Not all trim sizes and styles work with all housings. Therefore, it is important to understand the type of housing you need before falling in love with a certain trim. Not sure what type of housing is right for you? Visit our Recessed Lighting Buying Guide for answers.