Lighting

Tip 25: Hanging 2' x 4' lights

When installing 2' x 4' drop-in lights in a suspended ceiling, don't forget to install additional hanger wires in the corners of the light. Additional wires may be needed for reinforcement of other fixtures mounted in or on the ceiling. For example, some recessed lights may need additional hanger wires when the fixture is heavy. Place the additional wires near the support for the fixture or independently support the fixture.

Tip 26: Installing recessed lighting in a tile ceiling

When installing a recessed light in a tile ceiling, make sure the light is supplied with support bars. These support bars will fit between the joists and hold up the light fixture so it does not rest on the back of the tile. Mount the support bars so the face of the fixture is flush with the face of the tile.

Tip 27: Installing recessed lighting in a suspended ceiling

NOTE: Incandescent lights, even in reflective high hat or can fixtures, are too hot for plastic surfaced panels, such as fiberglass.

1. Because recessed lights are usually smaller than grid openings, these fixtures should be installed on a subframe. Use extra hanger wires to support the components at the subframe attachment points.

2. Use fixtures with support bars that will rest on the grid. (The alternative is to install an independently hung fixture.)

3. Cut an appropriate fixture opening in the panel.

4. Finish with a trim ring or grille.

NOTE: No matter what type of lighting fixture is used, all manufacturers¿ requirements must be met. Both lighting and ceiling components are designed with certain circumstances in mind; these conditions must be compatible. Never use incandescent lights in fire-rated applications.

Tip 28: Installing surface - mounted lighting in a suspended ceiling

Support surface-mounted light fixtures and lightweight items with a wood attachment beam mounted above.

1. Measure the distance between the webs of main beams or cross tees and cut a 2" x 4" piece of lumber to this exact length.

2. Lay the wood section on top of the panel, and secure by running two 2" screws through the web of the grid member and into the wood ends. This provides a solid material that is able to receive attachment fasteners for surface-mounted lights or track supports.

3. To help carry any extra load in the grid system, add extra hanger wires to the grid where it attaches to the wood section.

Tip 29: Installing Surface - mounted lighting in a tile ceiling

When you install a surface-mounted light under a tile ceiling, you must secure the light to the joists or furring strips using screws that will allow at least 1" of the threaded portion of the screw to penetrate the wood. With incandescent lighting, use the correct wattage lamps as indicated by the manufacturer.

If the light is fluorescent, you may have to leave a space between the back of the light and the face of the tile ceiling to allow air to circulate. When fixtures are installed against the face of the tile without the air space, the ballast may overheat and "burn out" more frequently.