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8 Inch Can Light Shopping Guide: Compare Types, Tips & Uses

Posted on by William Zheng

Upgrade your home’s lighting with 8 inch can lights—an ideal choice for those seeking powerful, modern illumination. Perfect for larger spaces, these recessed fixtures provide uniform, unobtrusive light while enhancing ceilings with a sleek finish. Our shopping guide will help you compare top options, features, and installation tips, ensuring you find the best 8 inch can light to suit your needs and style.

8 Inch Can Light Shopping Guide

Comparison Table: Types, Variations, and Applications of 8 Inch Can Light

Type / Model Application Installation Style Light Source Dimmability Color Temperature Options Retrofit Capability Commercial Grade Adjustable Wattage
Standard Recessed Can Light Residential / Commercial Recessed Ceiling LED / CFL / Halogen Yes Depends on bulb/kit No Optional No
Retrofit Trimless LED Disk Upgrade Existing Fits Existing Can/J-Box Integrated LED Yes Selectable (e.g., 2700K-5000K) Yes Some Some
Canless Ultra-Thin Wafer Light New & Remodel Surface or Shallow Ceiling Integrated LED Yes Selectable (e.g., 5CCT) N/A (New holes) Available No
Commercial Power/Color Adjustable Offices, Retail Recessed Ceiling Integrated LED Yes (0-10V, Triac) Selectable (3CCT/5CCT) Yes (Retrofit & New) Yes Yes
Decorative Trim Ring/Goof Plate Residential Decorative/Accessory N/A (Accessory) N/A N/A N/A No No

Everyday Usage and Benefits of 8 Inch Can Lights

Where and How Are 8 Inch Can Lights Used?

8 inch can lights are a popular choice for providing broad, high-output illumination in both commercial and residential spaces. Their larger aperture delivers more light coverage compared to smaller downlights, making them ideal for:

  • Large living rooms, dining or family areas
  • Kitchens with high ceilings or open layouts
  • Office conference rooms, retail spaces, showrooms
  • Hotels, lobbies, and commercial corridors
  • Basements or garages requiring robust lighting

You’ll find 8 inch can lights used as both general (ambient) lighting and as accent/task lighting when spaced properly throughout a ceiling.

Benefits of 8 Inch Can Light Fixtures

  • Wide Light Coverage: The larger size disperses light evenly over broad areas, reducing the number of fixtures needed.
  • Modern LED Efficiency: Most new and retrofit models utilize LEDs, offering long life (often 35,000–50,000 hours) and major energy savings versus incandescent/halogen bulbs.
  • Customizable Appearance: Available with trim options (matte, baffle, regressed, goof rings) for a clean and stylish finish.
  • Selectable Color Temperature: Many models allow you to choose between warm and cool whites (e.g., 2700K, 3000K, 3500K, 4000K, 5000K) at installation.
  • Dimmable Performance: Smooth dimming is common—great for setting mood or saving even more energy.
  • Versatility: Retrofit kits can modernize existing outdated can fixtures, while canless and ultra-thin options enable installations in tight or shallow ceiling spaces.
  • Commercial Grade Options: Heavier-duty features like higher lumen outputs, 0-10V dimming, and field-adjustable wattage for offices, retail, or hospitality settings.

How to Choose the Right 8 Inch Can Light

Consider Your Project Needs


8-Inch Architectural LED New Construction Can Light - Alcon Lighting - 8 inch can light

  1. New Construction or Retrofit?
  2. New Construction: Use dedicated new-construction can housings, or opt for integrated canless wafer lights if ceiling access is easy.

  3. Retrofit: Select an LED retrofit kit or disk light designed to fit your existing 8″ can for a quick and clean update.

  4. Ceiling Type and Depth

  5. Standard Ceilings: Most 8″ cans or retrofit disks fit well.

  6. Shallow or Tight Spaces: Choose ultra-thin, canless LED wafer models—these often require just 2-3″ of clearance.

  7. Light Output (Lumens)

  8. For high ceilings or open-plan spaces, look for fixtures with 1400–2400+ lumens per light for optimal coverage.

  9. Color Temperature and Selectability

  10. Models with 3CCT or 5CCT (Correlated Color Temperature) selection offer flexibility—you can choose anything from cozy warm white (2700K) up to daylight (5000K/6000K) at the time of install.

  11. Dimming Compatibility

  12. If installing where dimming is needed, ensure your fixtures (and drivers) are compatible with your wall dimmers. Many commercial models also support 0-10V dimming systems.

  13. Finish and Trim Style

  14. Goof rings or decorative trims can cover oversize holes, gaps, or imperfect drywall cuts—adding an extra-polished look.

  15. Baffle, smooth, and regressed trims are popular for reducing glare and customizing the fixture’s appearance.

  16. Energy Efficiency/Certifications

  17. Look for ENERGY STAR, UL, ETL, and FCC certifications for safety and efficiency. Many top models are also RoHS compliant (free of hazardous substances).

Special Features to Look For

  • Selectable Wattage: Choose or adjust between low/medium/high wattage output for tailored brightness.
  • Integrated Night Light Modes: Some residential models add a soft amber night light ring for bedrooms or halls.
  • Wet/Damp Location Ratings: Essential for bathrooms, laundry, or covered outdoor applications.
  • Easy-Install Spring Clips or Retrofit Mounting: Simplifies DIY installation.

Practical Tips and Best Practices

  1. Spacing and Layout Planning
  2. Space fixtures 6–8 feet apart for even light. For very high ceilings, closer spacing may be needed.
  3. Coordinate Color Temperatures
  4. Use the same color temperature for all ceiling lights in a zone for a cohesive look.
  5. Test Before Full Installation
  6. If using selectable color/watt options, experiment before finalizing placement.
  7. Use Goof Rings for Mistakes
  8. If ceiling holes are accidentally cut too large, trim rings (goof plates) can save the day and maintain a seamless look.
  9. Check Dimming Performance
  10. Test with your dimmer switches before installing all fixtures—some combinations may require specific dimmers for flicker-free performance.
  11. Insulation Contact (IC) Rating
  12. If the fixture will touch insulation in the ceiling, confirm it’s IC rated for safety.
  13. Retrofit Cautions
  14. For retrofits, double-check the can light diameter (measure both the inner and outer edge) and bulb type for proper fit.
  15. Maintenance
  16. Periodically dust or clean trims and lenses to maintain brightness and appearance.
  17. Bulk/Bundled Options
  18. For large spaces, multi-pack kits offer savings and ensure matched lighting across rooms.
  19. Consult with an Electrician
    • When in doubt—especially for commercial, high ceiling, or complex wiring—seek professional help to ensure safe and optimal installation.

Feature and Specification Comparison Table: 8 Inch Can Light Models

Brand / Model Type Lumen Output Wattage Color Temp Options Dimmable Certs Install Depth Retrofit? Notable Features Finish/Trim
Commercial Electric 8″ Retrofit Trimless Disk LED Disk ~1700 20W 5CCT (2700-5000K) Yes ETL, UL, ES Ultra-slim Yes Trimless, Junction-Box Fit White/Trimless
Sunco 8″ Recessed LED Retrofit LED Retrofit 2400 Select: 12/20/30W 5CCT (2700-5000K) Yes (0-10V) UL, RoHS, ES Slim Yes Power/CCT Adjustable White/Ring
Westgate Builder Series Recess Light Commercial 2200-5200 10-22W or 34-52W 3CCT/5CCT Yes ETL Standard Yes Power+Color Adjustable White/Various
Amico 8” Canless Wafer Downlight Canless LED 1600 18W 5CCT (2700-5000K, w/ Night Light) Yes ETL, FCC Ultra-thin No Built-in night light ring White/Slim
LUXRITE 8” LED Disk Light LED Retrofit 2000 27W 5CCT (2700-5000K) Yes Energy Star / ETL Low Profile Yes Flush/J-box or Can Ready White/Smooth
Lighting Labs Trim Ring Goof Plate N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Covers oversized holes Matte White
Morris 72631 Retrofit Retrofit Kit ~2800-3500 35W 5000K Yes ETL Standard Yes Baffled Bezel White/Baffled

Abbreviations: ES = ENERGY STAR, CCT = Correlated Color Temperature, IC = Insulation Contact, UL = Underwriters Laboratories, ETL = Edison Testing Laboratories.

Usage Tips and Advice for 8 Inch Can Lights

Planning for Performance and Comfort

  • Ambient vs. Task Lighting: For ambient lighting, install evenly across the ceiling. For focused lighting, group a few above key areas (e.g., kitchen island).
  • Glare Minimization: Baffle or regressed trims help reduce direct glare, especially in commercial settings.
  • Dimming Range: Check the minimum dimmable level—some LED models may flicker or turn off below a certain dimming percentage.
  • Smart Controls: Some modern can lights can be controlled by smart switches, app, or voice for even more convenience.
  • Color Consistency: Pick fixtures from the same brand/model batch to avoid subtle differences in color output (color binning).
  • Safety First: Always shut off power at the breaker when installing or swapping hard-wired fixtures.

Maintenance and Longevity

  • LED retrofits require little maintenance. Their sealed designs help keep out dust and bugs, but the occasional wipe keeps light output optimal.
  • If a fixture flickers or does not turn on, double-check wiring connections, compatibility with dimmer switches, and that wattage selectors (where present) are set correctly.

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Conclusion

An 8 inch can light is an excellent investment for homeowners and commercial property managers alike who value broad, efficient, and modern lighting options. Whether you’re upgrading outdated cans or lighting a new space, these fixtures offer robust illumination, energy savings, and sleek, integrated design. With multiple installation options, adjustable color and power features, and easy retrofit kits available, it’s never been easier to craft the right mood, boost safety, or improve visibility wherever you need it. Choosing the right model involves considering your ceiling type, room use, brightness needs, trim style, and future flexibility. With the insights and comparisons provided in this guide, you’re equipped to confidently select and install the perfect 8 inch can lights for any project.

FAQ

  1. What is an 8 inch can light?
    An 8 inch can light is a recessed downlight fixture installed into the ceiling. The “8 inch” refers to the aperture (opening) size, offering wide, even illumination—ideal for larger rooms or spaces requiring strong ambient light.

  2. Can I retrofit my old 8 inch can lights with LED?
    Yes, there are many LED retrofit kits and disk lights designed to fit standard 8 inch cans. These upgrades are typically easy to install and dramatically improve energy efficiency and light quality.

  3. What does “canless” mean for recessed lights?
    Canless lights, also called wafer or ultra-thin downlights, do not require a traditional metal can housing. They mount directly into the ceiling using spring clips and are ultra-thin, making them suitable for tight plenums or new construction.

  4. How do I choose the right color temperature?
    Select warm white (2700-3000K) for living rooms and bedrooms, neutral white (3500-4000K) for kitchens and offices, and cool white/daylight (5000-6000K) for work areas or spaces requiring crisp, vibrant light. Fixtures with selectable color temperature give you flexibility.

  5. Are 8 inch can lights dimmable?
    Most modern LED models are dimmable. Check the fixture and driver spec for dimming methods—many support standard wall dimmers (Triac), and some commercial models also support 0-10V dimming for advanced systems.

  6. How many 8 inch can lights do I need for my room?
    Generally, space fixtures about 6-8 feet apart, depending on the room size and ceiling height. For best results, use a lighting calculator or consult an electrician for custom layouts in large or oddly shaped rooms.

  7. What is a goof ring or trim ring, and when should I use one?
    A goof ring (trim plate) is an accessory that surrounds the can light to cover oversized or uneven ceiling openings. It’s ideal for retrofits, remodels, or whenever ceiling holes were accidentally cut too large.

  8. Do I need an IC-rated can light?
    If your recessed light will be in contact with insulation in the ceiling, it must be IC (Insulation Contact) rated for safety and code compliance. Most new and retrofit LED fixtures are IC-rated, but always verify.

  9. Are 8 inch can lights suitable for bathrooms or wet areas?
    Yes, if you select models that are rated for damp or wet locations. Always check the manufacturer’s rating—look for “Wet Rated” or “Damp Rated” labels if installing above showers, baths, or laundry rooms.

  10. How long do LED 8 inch can lights last?
    Modern LED 8 inch can lights typically last 35,000 to 50,000 hours. That equals 10–20+ years of regular use—much longer than traditional bulbs—making them a long-term, low-maintenance lighting solution.

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