Would like to install recessed lights around the exterior vinyl soffits of our ranch home. Nothing really bright, just some accent lighting with maybe the option to change the color with the season/holidays.
My search on the net and BT has not come up with much info, so I like to asked this forum directly what you think is the best setup.
I have looked at the typical line voltage recessed cans, but I’m not sure which one would be the best choice or if the heat will cause a problem even with IC ratings and a vented roof.
Low voltage spots,similar to the 7 watt Malibu’s that you stick in the ground would be nice, but cannot find any thing that is made to mount in a soffit.
If I could to find a way to mount the basic Malibu low voltage spot in my soffits, would interior rated low voltage wire be required?
Replies
There are some deck lights that might work mounted upside-down.
http://www.cooperlighting.com/content/design/easy_selection_guide/easy_selection_guide1.cfm
Fixtures must be appropriately rated for wet (or damp) location.
Jeff
Thanks guys for your response, seems like there is not much call for the soffits lights, I guess most landscape lights shines up not down.
I can't stand LV stuff. It's garbage unless you spend big bucks and even then it's not so great long term.
For soffits install Lightolier or who ever floats your boat. Be sure to leave a few feet of extra near the panel and install the best dimmer you can afford.
Your bulbs will last forever and you can change the amount of lighting at will w/o changing the wattage of your bulbs. Care to ask me how I know?
OK RobWes I'll bite, how do you know?
We've done it in several soffits both in and outside. I even did it in my own home. The life of your bulbs is increased because you are no longer hitting them with a 120 volt shock. We have bulbs that 15 years old that have never been changed out and used on a regular basis.
When done outside you don't get the harsh bright light shining thru your windows at night. You end up with a soft glow that is adjustable to your taste and not dictated by the rating of the bulb or the spacing of the lamps.
I don't know if vinyl would melt with regular cans..perhaps the low voltage step lights would work , they come with a louver and / or
a diffused lens which seal up the fixture from below..but bugs do manage to find the heat.
Intermatic makes them
Hadco ?
and Kichler......who seems to be the most expensive
..http://www.LightingUniverse.com/products/view.aspx?sku=402997
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, wer ist jetzt der Idiot ?