Can you replace a ceiling light with a recessed light?

Hi, I have some ceiling lights in my house positioned in landing and hallway that are so ugly that I want to replace them. I would like to replace them with a single recessed light. Is it easy to replace it by using the existing wires and place the new light through the whole or you have to have access to ceiling, cut a whole etc? I mean is it an easy job?? thanks

It is easy if your ceilings are plasterboard, less so if lath and plaster. Nearly all downlighters are fitted from below with the hole cut to suit. Make sure you have safe access – stairs in landings and hallways can be dangerous. You need to check you have adequate clearance from the floor boards or other flammable material above and remember that most pendant fitting positions are directly below joists- so your new position may need to be offset slightly.

6 Responses to “Can you replace a ceiling light with a recessed light?”

  1. Lucky Man 2, on November 18th, 2009 at 2:30 pm Said:

    It is fairly easy if you have some experience.
    References :

  2. GER C, on November 18th, 2009 at 2:50 pm Said:

    It is an easy job when it is carried out by a qualified electrician, which I recommend.
    References :

  3. MellowMan, on November 18th, 2009 at 3:33 pm Said:

    Yes it can be done, if you have access from above that would make it easier, plus make sure there is enough depth between ceiling and above floor due to the heat it will make. All recess lights will have the info on the packaging.
    References :

  4. letem haveit, on November 18th, 2009 at 4:08 pm Said:

    Hi, The fact you’re asking this question tells me it wouldn’t be easy for you. It would be easier for a professional and a lot safer too. You could end up making one hell of a mess and worse case injuring or even killing yourself.
    References :

  5. vlee1415, on November 18th, 2009 at 4:54 pm Said:

    try the tips from the website;
    http://www.doityourself.com/stry/installrecesslight
    References :

  6. Bilbo, on November 18th, 2009 at 5:44 pm Said:

    It is easy if your ceilings are plasterboard, less so if lath and plaster. Nearly all downlighters are fitted from below with the hole cut to suit. Make sure you have safe access – stairs in landings and hallways can be dangerous. You need to check you have adequate clearance from the floor boards or other flammable material above and remember that most pendant fitting positions are directly below joists- so your new position may need to be offset slightly.
    References :

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