---
title: "What Is Recessed lighting? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "Recessed lighting, also called can lights or downlights, are fixtures set into the ceiling so that only the trim shows."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/recessed-lighting
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Lighting

# Recessed lighting

Recessed lighting, also called can lights or downlights, are fixtures set into the ceiling so that only the trim shows.

The Department of Energy's weatherization glossary describes a can light as a light fixture (or can) that is set into the ceiling. Recessed fixtures need room above the ceiling and attention to heat. An IC rating, short for insulation contact, means the housing can touch insulation.

Many recessed fixtures now use [LED](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/led) modules with an [LED driver](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/led-driver). Cutting holes and wiring above ceilings is work for a licensed electrician. Pick a [color temperature](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/color-temperature) that matches the room. See [lighting installation](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/lighting-installation).

[Daniel Electric can helpLighting installation](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/lighting-installation)

## Related terms

-   [LED](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/led)
-   [LED driver](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/led-driver)
-   [Color temperature](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/color-temperature)
-   [Dimmer switch](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/dimmer-switch)

## Sources

1.  [U.S. Department of Energy: Weatherization Assistance Program Glossary](https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2016/06/f32/glossary.pdf)
2.  [U.S. Department of Energy: Weatherization Assistance Program Glossary](https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2016/06/f32/glossary.pdf)

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## Need an electrician in Southlake?

Call and tell us what is going on. A photo of the panel label or the problem helps us come prepared. Quotes on new installations are free.

[Call (817) 481-8606](tel:+1-817-481-8606)[Get a quote](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact)

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