How To Insulate Around Ceiling Can Lights

How to Insulate Around Ceiling Can Lights

Insulating around ceiling can lights is one of the most important energy efficiency projects a home can undertake. It’s estimated that every unsealed can light can allow 50-100 cfm of air leakage into a home. This leakage can lead to higher energy bills, discomfort in the home, and even ice dams on the roof in cold climates. However, insulating these areas can be challenging due to the limited space available and the need to maintain proper airflow.

There are a few key aspects to consider when insulating around ceiling can lights:

1. Safety: It’s important to ensure that the insulation does not come into contact with the light bulb or fixture. This can be a fire hazard.

2. Airflow: The insulation should not block the airflow around the light fixture. This can cause the fixture to overheat and fail.

3. Accessibility: The insulation should be easy to remove if necessary. This is to access the light fixture for maintenance or replacement.

The following steps will help you insulate around ceiling can lights safely and effectively:

1. Turn off the power to the light fixture at the breaker panel.

2. Remove the light bulb from the fixture.

3. Use a can light insulation kit or cut a piece of insulation to fit around the light fixture.

4. Make sure that the insulation does not come into contact with the light bulb or fixture.

5. Replace the light bulb and turn the power back on at the breaker panel.