Can You Put Insulation Over Ceiling Lights

Can You Put Insulation Over Ceiling Lights?

Insulating your home is an effective way to improve its energy efficiency and reduce your energy bills. However, you may wonder whether it's safe to put insulation over ceiling lights.

The good news is that, in most cases, it is safe to put insulation over ceiling lights, provided that you take the following precautions:

Use the right type of insulation. Not all types of insulation are suitable for use around light fixtures. Avoid using loose-fill insulation, such as cellulose or fiberglass, as it can block airflow and cause the light fixture to overheat.
Leave space around the light fixture. When installing insulation, make sure that there is at least 3 inches of space between the insulation and the light fixture. This will ensure that the light fixture has enough airflow to stay cool.
Install a vapor barrier. A vapor barrier will prevent moisture from getting into the insulation and causing damage to the light fixture. Install the vapor barrier over the insulation, but before you install the drywall.
Use caution when installing insulation around recessed lights. Recessed lights are more prone to overheating than other types of light fixtures. Make sure that there is at least 6 inches of space between the insulation and the recessed light. You may also want to install a thermal barrier between the insulation and the light fixture.

By following these precautions, you can safely put insulation over ceiling lights and improve the energy efficiency of your home.