LED Retrofit Modules for Flat Ceilings
Why?
They’re low profile but still recessed to minimize glare. They also have a deeper lip around the trim then others. This allows them to cover the housing’s flange and still sit flush against the ceiling. This is important because you don’t want to see gaps around the lights if you can help it.
Why?
I like these for the same reasons I like the 4-inch, plus they are 1200 lumens which is great for rooms that need the brightness.
LED Retrofit Modules for Sloped Ceilings
Why?
They are small yet powerful enough for general lighting. They also make a 6-inch version but I prefer these because the brightness of the 6-inch is the same so there’s no real advantage to having the bigger lights. In my opinion the smaller the better, especially on a sloped ceiling where they are very visible.
LED Remodel Housings
4-inch Sunco LED Remodel Housings
Why?
They are basically the same as other brands that cost twice as much. They carry all of the required ratings – IC, AT, UL, T24.
6-inch Sunco LED Remodel Housings
Why?
Just like the 4-inch, they are basically the same as other brands that cost twice as much. They carry all of the required ratings – IC, AT, UL, T24.
Most 5/6 LED retrofit modules come preset to 6-inch, so when given the choice to use 5-inch or 6-inch I normally go with 6-inch so I don’t have to adjust the size of each module before installing it.
LED Light Bulbs
Why?
These are the ONLY LED bulbs I can recommend for one simple reason – they don’t buzz when you dim them. They’re silent.
Exhaust Fans
Panasonic Whisperceiling DC Fan
Why?
It’s quiet, low profile, designed for remodel installation, includes a duct adapter, has a speed switch to accomodate any size restroom, and the price is excellent.
Panasonic Whisperceiling DC Fan + LED Light
Why?
It’s quiet, low profile, designed for remodel installation, includes a duct adapter, has a speed switch to accomodate any size restroom, and the price is excellent. It also has an integrated LED light. Don’t buy a fan that uses fluorescent bulbs. They will be obsolete soon.
Standard Dimmers
Why?
Lutron dimmers are as reliable as you can get, and this dimmer is one of the most widely tested among LED brands for compatability. It also has a low-end trim adjustment wheel to get the maximum dimming range out of your LEDs.
Smart Dimmers
Lutron Caseta Dimmer + Pico Remote Dimmer
Why?
This instantly gives you the freedom to control your lights from more than one location. If you get an optional mounting bracket, you can install it with a plate exactly like a hardwired dimmmer but without needing to run new wiring. You can also pair it with a hub to control your lighting remotely or via other devices.
Why?
It connects to Amazon Eco and Google Home devices without a hub. It is very easy to setup and program via the Leviton app. You can set whether you want it to recall the last level it was set to or go directly to a preset level every time. You can also toggle the LED locator light to be on or off, light fade rates, dimming ranges, and a few other options. I also like that you can update your dimmer’s firmware via the app. You can use this in place of those little wall timers that are really hard to program. This is about the same price, and the app makes it easy to setup a recurring timer. One thing to note is that it does require a neutral wire in the switch box.
Video and Security
Why?
This is one of my absolute favorite products. The app and setup are simple, and you get complete control of everything. You can fine tune the range and sensitivity of the lights, you can setup notifications of activity if you want.