Choose the Best Can Lights to Brighten Your Kitchen

Is your kitchen looking a bit dim and dreary? Installing can lights is an easy and affordable way to brighten up the space. With focused beams that illuminate counters and work areas, can lights provide both ambient lighting and essential task lighting for food prep and cooking.

But not all can lights are created equal. With the array of options out there, it can be tricky to determine which type of recessed lighting is best for your unique kitchen setup and needs.

What Are Can Lights?

Can lights, also known as downlights or recessed lighting, are cylindrical fixtures that are set into an opening in the ceiling. The trim and edges of the can are hidden from view, creating a clean, integrated lighting look. The body of the can light housing mounts between ceiling joists or rafters. The bottom of the can openings are visible, emitting directed light downward wherever they are placed.

Benefits of Recessed Can Lighting in Kitchens

There are several reasons can lights are a popular kitchen lighting choice:

• Direct focused beams illuminate task areas
• Ambient lighting without glare
• Multiple can lights can be installed as needed
• Various styles fit any kitchen aesthetic
• Newer LED and smart options maximize efficiency

Key Considerations for Choosing Kitchen Can Lights

Assess Your Lighting Needs

First, examine your kitchen to determine what areas need better light coverage. Are there certain counters or work stations that need brighter task lighting? Is the room generally dark and in need of overall ambient lighting? This will help guide optimal placement.

Also consider your style preferences. Do you want an ultra modern look with LED cans or something more classic? Any finish like white, brass, or bronze that fits your kitchen decor? Budget is also a factor since prices can range from $10 to $100+ per fixture.

Recommended Placement Tips

The kitchen lighting experts recommend installing recessed lighting in these key areas:

• Above sinks, stoves, ovens, and main work counters
• Overhead general/ambient lighting 2-4 feet apart
• Below eye level to reduce shadows
• 50 lumens per square foot for adequate light

Installation Considerations

Factor in the size of your kitchen, existing electrical wiring, and ceiling material when deciding on can lights. Accessing wiring through attics or crawlspaces makes installation far easier. Drywall ceilings are simpler to cut than plaster or concrete. An experienced electrician can assess your unique situation.

Types of Can Lights

Standard vs. Slope Ceiling Cans

Standard recessed lights fit flat ceilings. For angled or vaulted ceilings, slope ceiling cans tilt at an angle to direct light properly. Cans should be parallel to ceiling pitch.

Finishes

Can light finishes include:

• White - Bright and neutral
• Black - For a bold, dramatic effect
• Bronze, brass, nickel - Warmer metallic tones
• Custom colors - To match your exact decor

Adjustable Cans

Adjustable recessed lights have a rotating bracket inside to aim the beam in different directions. This adds flexibility but costs more.

Light Source: LED vs. Halogen

LED can lights are the clear winner in terms of efficiency and longevity. LEDs use up to 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than halogens. They also remain cooler. But halogens do provide a slightly warmer, more natural light.

Smart Options

Smart can lights offer features like:

• Dimmability - Change ambiance with a dimmer
• Color tuning - Shift from warm to cool light
• Connected controls - Adjust via phone/smart speaker

Best Brands for Kitchen Can Lights

Top manufacturers known for quality and performance include:

• Cree - Durable LED cans with excellent color
• Philips - Leading smart/connected can lights
• Progress Lighting - Affordable options with great warranties
• WAC Lighting - High end designer recessed lighting

Cost of Can Lighting Your Kitchen

The total cost for recessed kitchen lighting depends on:

• Number of can lights needed
• Cost per fixture - $10 to $100+
• Electrician installation fees if required

Higher upfront costs are offset by huge long term energy savings, especially with efficient LED can lights. Proper lighting also makes the kitchen far more functional and enjoyable to use for years to come.

Hiring an Electrician

Installing can lights involves electrical work like cutting holes in the ceiling and wiring the fixtures. Safety should be top priority. While a DIY project is possible, consider hiring a professional electrician if:

• You lack electrical expertise
• The wiring is complex or hard to access
• Local regulations require a licensed electrician

The electrician should apply for any permits needed and follow local building codes.

Installation Tips

Proper planning is key prior to installing recessed lighting in the kitchen:

• Map out optimal can light placement based on lighting needs.
• Ensure cans are easily accessible for maintenance.
• Match cans to ceiling type - sloped or standard.
• Calculate required cutout size in ceiling.
• Turn off power at the breaker before starting.
• Follow all electrical safety protocols.

Pair with Other Kitchen Lighting

While can lights provide excellent task and ambient lighting, also consider:

• Under cabinet LED strips - For illuminating countertops
• Pendant lights - Stylish focal points over tables/islands
• Dimmers and lighting controls - For even more customization

The right recessed lighting layout fills your kitchen with natural, glare-free light. Can lights specifically illuminate the most important work areas. And sleek, integrated cans complement any decor. Use this guide to pick the perfect can lights to revamp your kitchen!