I’m reading mixed stories on whether or not it is safe to use non-ic recessed cans in the attic if there is insulation.
I have blown insulation in my attic space but could easily push that aside to use the non-ic type housings. I have a 3″ non-ic housing and light (50W GU10 lamp) as an assembly (Utilitech brand) and would like to use two for accent lights for the fireplace wall (would be put about 18″ from the wall/fireplace); couldn’t find 3″ ic lights at the local home centers. I can easily get access to the attic and have space to put in the lights. Is this ok or should I drive into the city to get 3″ ic cans and trim?
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3" IC rated cans here
http://www.westsidewholesale.com/lighting/recessed-lighting?sub_type=253&size=197
I always put in IC rated when possible, since you never know what's going to get covered by insulation down the road.
In your case, for about $40 why would you risk it?
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Thanks - I called Lowe's where I bought the 3" lights and the guy in the department said they were only good if we had fire-retardant insulation in the attic. This is different than the guy who told me the night I bought them to push the insulation away from the lights and there would be no problem.
So who uses these lights if they are not safe?
There are places where on e might install a can light say between floors where there is no insulation.
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always use ic rated cans in any space where there is going to be insulation contact - hence the rating name: insulation contact.
I hope you don't make it a habit to listen to anyone who works at lowes or hd. "Just push the insulation back and you'll be fine." You gotta be kiddin' me!
Actually pushing the insulation away from them would be fine. I'm not sure why anyone would do that if you need insulation though.... And as long as the thermal protection was working if they do overheat they make really cool blinking lights.
A customer of mine called last week complaining of her blinking kitchen lights, seems she relamped them with exterior 150 watt bulbs.... DUH.
I agree - we didn't get the blown insulation for free so it makes no sense to buy the non-ic lights to save money. I also opted for the low voltage 4" can lights at a lighting store in the city so I'm happy with the choice.
Yeah but only at Christmas time.
Oops. Am I allowed to say Christmas or is it Holiday time?