Ligh housings

[nate379]

I have 8 T8 bulbs in my garage and have been considering adding more lights.

I was thinking to keep it simple I could just remove the current housings and put 4 4bulb housings instead.

Lowe's has ones that recess into the ceiling. Are those ok to have insulation on top of, or it not, ok to fit into a "box"?

Are they about the same in light output as a open "shop" light?

The open lights I think won't clear my garage door, as is I have about 1/2" between the currect housings and the door.

I'm not sure what the ideal light calculation is but right now it is 38 lumens/per sq ft and it would go to 77. From 2.3 amps to 4.3 so I will be fine on the wiring.

 

[nate379]

Wow I am surprised no help on this!

 

[scott37300]

You can put insulation on top of them. The problem is going to be that the ones I have seen are called trough lights and are made to go in suspended ceilings in a 2x4 foot opening. Most trusses and joists in a garage are spaced 2' on center or closer and these won't fit.

As far as the light output it depends on what kind of "lens" you get, some of them restrict the light somewhat.

Without a layout of your garage or physically seeing it it is hard to make recommendations for lighting. Another option for low clearances above the garage door is recessed can lights. If you use can lights make sure you get the IC rated ones if they are going to be touching insulation.

 

[nate379]

I don't have any layout really. Just picture 24 wide x 26 deep with 9ft ceiling and door on the 24ft wall. I was just going to space the lights evenly.

Toolbox, benches, etc all move around depending on what I'm working on.

Rafters are 24" oc, didn't even think of the lights being 24" edge to edge. Hmmm.