Exterior recessed lighting recommendations

[RobA]

I want to install recessed lights in the ceiling of our horse barn overhang. The area is protected from the rain but not from humidity or condensation. Can I use any recessed light can as long as it is rated for exterior use? Or do I need to use a shower type light with a glass lens on it?

 

[dmccarty]

We used regular recessed light cans on our porches. The cans are using the CFL bulbs we installed in 2004. We have not changed one yet. Thank goodness, because I will have to buy a big ladder to get to some of the cans. The only place we had to use cans that were covered near the bath tubs and shower but outside we did not. We have not had a problem either.

Later,
Dan

 

[BuzzardA91]

I used the same cans under my covered porch as I did in the house. No issues. I have four of them outside and the bulbs seems to last longer, or I use them less? They have been there for five years.

 

[RobA]

Thanks for the reponses

 

[mbrule]

I too just used a standard one outside no issues.....

 

[JRobyn]

I used the airtight housings for my recessed porch lights (17 of them) to minimize bugs/hornets from using them as a pathway into the space above the porch ceiling. Seems to be working exactly as planned. We've had them in for about 2 years now. The airtight cans were only a bit more expensive than the regular cheap ones. Hornets DO like to build nests in the top of the light bulb socket space! Doesn't cause any problems, but watch out when you go to change bulbs!!

 

[JRobyn]

If you DON'T use airtight cans, you may wind up with the dreaded "crickets in the basement" (or elsewhere)!

;-)

 

[KennyG]

Some may accuse me of being overconservative, but if I was doing this, I would install an outlet first in the circuit with a Ground Fault outlet. I wouldn't worry too much about the using interior housings, but I wouldn't want a non protected circuit anywhere outside, even a lighting circuit.

 

[Raspy]

There are two styles of recessed cans. One is "remodel" and the other is "new construction". After looking closely, the only difference I could spot was that one had all it's holes sealed with silicone. This might be the better one for you.

Also there are a lot of bulb styles, including LEDs. Some of them cover the whole opening and include a trim ring that seems like it would seal well. These would definitely stop bugs/hornets with their flush type cover assembly. I got the 4" size and found there aren't many bulb options for that size. So, look at the 5" or 6" size and look at the bulbs before getting the fixtures. Look at the big box stores for some ideas. The LED fixtures seem like they would be the best for exposed ceiling type installations. Plus they run cooler and might attract fewer bugs.

 

[dmccarty]

If you DON'T use airtight cans, you may wind up with the dreaded "crickets in the basement" (or elsewhere)!

;-)

Should we tell MossFlowerRoad how the crickets got into his basement or just let him figure it out? :laughing::laughing::laughing:

I say the later. Tis more fun to "watch" that way.

Later,
Dan