Thread: Recessed lights and insulation contact question

I came across recessed lights in the attic that have open slots on top and a label that read "If using trims designated as non-type IC only, Do not install insulation within 3 inches of fixture sides or wiring compartment nor above fixture in such a manner to trap heat". All were covered over with insulation. What does the label mean about "Trims" and how can I tell if they can be covered over with insulation (or not). Thanks

First question: How old is the house?

Second question: Do you get the manufacturer of those recessed housings?

Originally Posted by Jerry Peck

First question: How old is the house?

Second question: Do you get the manufacturer of those recessed housings?

Jerry, thanks
The home is a 1998 and no; I did not get the manufacturer's name.

Inside the fixture should have a list of trim and bulb combinations that are allowed. Certain combinations cannot be used in contact with insulation. Change the bulb or trim and you are fine.

The trim is the finished ring against the ceiling.

Originally Posted by Jim Port

Inside the fixture should have a list of trim and bulb combinations that are allowed. Certain combinations cannot be used in contact with insulation. Change the bulb or trim and you are fine.

The trim is the finished ring against the ceiling.

Got it, thanks again

In 1998 that recessed light should have been an air tight type as a was in the energy code before that ... albeit disguised in its wording back to maybe 1984 or so.

I think the wording was cleared up in the 1997 energy code to read "air- tight" ... of course, though, took another few years to wake all the AHJ across the state to its existence.

Jerry, you might be able to clear this up but I thought I had seen a map that had areas that required IC or IC-AT that seemed to be on a state by state basis.

Originally Posted by Jim Port

Jerry, you might showing thate to clear this up but I thought I had seen a map that had areas that required IC or IC-AT that seemed to be on a state by state basis.

Jim, I don't recall having seen a map showing - would be a nice intense map showing the different years.

I forgot to add: IC is an electrical code issue and air tight is an energy code issue.

At times a non-IC is an energy code issue because of the required "hole" through the insulation (a hole the size of the can + 6 inches ... if the can is 6", then the "hole" through the insulation is a 12" diameter "hole" for each non-IC recessed light.