Hi,
I have 4″ non-IC recessed lights using PAR20 (50W halogen) bulbs to install in a ceiling space. How close to any wood can the fixture come to ? The fixture might touch some of the 1×3 strapping or cross-bracing in some locations. I figure it should be fine since the drywall ceiling has a paper backing and it does not burst into flames.
I also have some 3″ recessed fixtures using 35W or 50W GU10 halogen bulbs. These are going into a cabinet with a plywood soffit. Is using plywood going to pose a fire-hazard ?
Thanks
Replies
I set puck lights into the plywood tops of cabinets and the wood gets warm if they're left on for a long time. I don't knwo if this is the same thing, but they're designed for the purpose.
Sorry for the bad photo, but it shows what I mean. The second photo is from the internet, just to show a dis-assembled one.
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Edited 4/6/2008 8:27 pm by Ted W.
Can you determine if the fixtures are certified by ASTM-E283 for air tight construction? Like this one - http://www.cooperlighting.com/specfiles/pdf/Halo/H36LVTATspecsheet.pdf That would probably answer your question about total enclosure.
I don't *think* you have a problem with the proximity to wood but you can always call the manufacturer's technical hot line - I would.
Jeff
thanks to you both. The manufacturer hasn't replied to my questions yet so I went and did a mockup in my basement using the same plywood bulkhead. The 50W GU10 bulb has been on for 6 hours now and I can still touch the outside of the can. It's warm but nothing worry about, i don't think. The plywood itself is even cooler. I will also be using 20W or 35W bulbs instead of the rated 50W (it's for accent lighting inside a cabinet), so that should make things even better.
As long as the cans are rated "IC" (for insulation contact), you are OK. IC-rated fixtures are rated for direct contact with combustible materials. They will also have a thermal breaker that will trip at 90 deg C., far less than the temperature at which wood or paper will combust.
But...I am not a professional electrical inspector, so check with your local compliance people. You municipality may have specific requirements.
[edit] I see you are using non-IC fixtures after re-reading. If it won't be a large expense, replace them with IC fixtures, and you won't ever have to worry about it. Otherwise, chek with the manufacturer for minimum clearance from combustible materials.
Edited 4/10/2008 3:36 pm ET by ampermc