Installing New Trims for Recessed Can Light Fixtures

';	How to Replace Recessed Light Trims: Commonly there are a wide range of trims that are available which most homeowners are not aware of. © By: Dave Rongey

Options for Installing Recessed Trims or Converting Light Fixtures
Electrical Question: My wife wants to put new trims on some low voltage recessed cans in our kitchen.

The problem is that they are designed for PAR20 or PAR30 bulbs.
Is it possible (and safe) to convert the cans?
an I just replace the socket plate and take the transformer out of the circuit to essentially convert the housing to line voltage?

Thanks for any guidance you can provide.

This electrical wiring question came from: Dean, a Homeowner from Garland, Texas.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Dean.

How to Replace Recessed Light Trims

Options for Recessed Light Fixture Trims

Dean, the safest advice I can give you is to install trims that are within the specified list of those that are available for your light fixture.
Commonly there are a wide range of trims that are available which most homeowners are not aware of.
Just search for the make and model to see what is available and I think that you will be surprised.
As for converting your existing recessed light fixture, I would see if there is a conversion kit that is available for the make and model that you have.

Light Fixture Safety

Understandable the same can or housing may be used for several models for the light fixture, however please be aware that converting the light fixture using your own method will void the UL Listing for that light fixture and you will not have the proper specifications about what type of light bulbs would be safe for the converted fixture and the type of trim that would be installed.

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Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.