The Best Lights To Put On A Suspended Ceiling

There are a variety of options to light a room with a suspended ceiling. Whether you’re looking for something modern and sleek or more traditional and classic, there’s a suspended ceiling light out there to suit your needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best ceiling lights to put in a suspended ceiling, including suspended ceiling lights as an option.

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Suspended Ceiling Lights

Suspended ceiling lights are designed specifically for use with suspended ceilings. These lights fit into the ceiling grid and provide even, diffuse lighting throughout the room. Suspended ceiling lights are highly energy-efficient and come in a variety of styles, from basic fluorescent fixtures to high-end LED designs.

Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting is a popular choice for suspended ceilings. A recessed light fixture, sometimes known as a can light, is a style in which most of the fixture is behind the ceiling surface—not mounted on the surface or hanging down from the ceiling. By fitting flush with the ceiling, recessed lighting lends a clean, streamlined look to a room. It can increase the amount of light in a room, highlight artwork or other special features, or open up spaces so they look and feel bigger.

Pendant Lighting

Pendant lighting is another popular option for suspended ceilings. Pendant lights are lamps that mount to the ceiling. Unlike flush-mounted lights that stay close the ceiling, these hanging light fixtures dangle a downward-pointing light from a cord or chain. The light is usually diffused by a shade or, in instances of post-modern styles, like bare Edison bulbs, glows outward horizontally.

Chandeliers

Chandeliers are a classic option for suspended ceilings. These lights feature multiple arms with bulbs attached, creating a luxurious and elegant look. Chandeliers come in a range of styles, from traditional crystal designs to modern and industrial.

Track Lighting

Track lighting is a versatile option for suspended ceilings. These lights feature multiple adjustable heads that can be aimed in different directions, allowing you to customize the lighting in the room. Track lighting is a great choice for highlighting artwork or other features in the room.

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Choosing The Best Ceiling Light For You

When selecting a ceiling light for a suspended ceiling, it’s important to consider the height of the ceiling as well. If the ceiling is lower, a flush mount or semi-flush mount ceiling light may be a better option, as it won’t take up as much vertical space; if the ceiling is higher, a pendant light or chandelier can add visual interest and draw the eye upward.

Another consideration is the color temperature of the light. Warmer color temperatures (usually around K-K) create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Cooler temperatures (around K-K) create a more energizing, modern look. Additionally, some LED lights are dimmable, allowing you to adjust the brightness as needed for different activities or moods.

For suspended ceiling lights, there are a several different types to choose from. Traditional fluorescent fixtures are still widely used, but they can be harsh and unflattering. LED panel lights are a newer option that provide even, diffused lighting while being highly energy-efficient. LED troffer lights are another option, designed to fit into the standard 2×4 grid of a suspended ceiling.

Finally, it’s important to consider the installation process when selecting a suspended ceiling light. Recessed lighting and suspended ceiling lights typically require cutting a hole in the ceiling tiles, which may require a professional installer. Pendant lights and chandeliers may require additional hardware and reinforcement to support their weight. Track lighting can be a more DIY-friendly option, as it simply clips onto the ceiling grid.

Overall, the best suspended ceiling light will depend on a variety of factors, including personal style, budget, room size, ceiling height, and function. Carefully considering these factors, you can choose a ceiling light that not only provides functional lighting but also enhances the overall look and feel of your space.

Are you interested in learning more about Suspended Pendant Lights? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

I believe it was the same as it is now. IF the fixture was supported by the ceiling grid it had to be securely fastened to the grid, HOWEVER (at least in this area) the fire code required that fixtures in suspended ceilings MUST be supported separately from the ceiling. My understanding is that the fire department wants to be able to pull the ceiling grid down in order to reach a fire above the ceiling, but the lights need to remain in place. Another example of multiple codes affecting our installations.

haskindm said: I believe it was the same as it is now. IF the fixture was supported by the ceiling grid it had to be securely fastened to the grid, HOWEVER (at least in this area) the fire code required that fixtures in suspended ceilings MUST be supported separately from the ceiling. My understanding is that the fire department wants to be able to pull the ceiling grid down in order to reach a fire above the ceiling, but the lights need to remain in place. Another example of multiple codes affecting our installations.

In addition to what you have already stated, areas in a high seismic zones have additional requirements for securing light fixtures within the ceiling grid system. These requirements come from the building codes.

Chris Lights supports - continued

Lights supports - continued

Okay let me explain the reason for asking;
These lights are only being re-lamped and the owner doesn't want to go back and tie a considerable amount of them, if he doesn't have to.
The building was finished in so, it was probably the Code that applied at the time, would that make a difference?

egurdian2 said: Okay let me explain the reason for asking;
These lights are only being re-lamped and the owner doesn't want to go back and tie a considerable amount of them, if he doesn't have to.
The building was finished in so, it was probably the Code that applied at the time, would that make a difference?

If it is preexisting nonconforming why not just relamp them?

egurdian2 said: These lights are only being re-lamped and the owner doesn't want to go back and tie a considerable amount of them, if he doesn't have to.

Who, in their right mind, would even suggest retro fitting tie wires on fixtures that are only being relamped? To me, that puts that man who made that suggestion in safety nut territory.

From the old NEC:

NEC, , 410-16(c) Suspended Ceilings. Framing members of suspended ceiling systems used to support fixtures shall be securely fastened to each other and shall be securely attached to the building structure at appropriate intervals. Fixtures so supported shall be securely fastened to the ceiling framing member by mechanical means, such as bolts, screws, or rivets. Clips identified for use with the type of ceiling framing member(s) and fixture(s) shall also be permitted.

If you wanted to do something, get a bunch of the Caddy clips and call it good.

egurdian2 said: Alright, thank you guys.
Somebody got away with it back 20 years ago.

Got away with what? You have not told us what you think is in violation.
If the fixtures are supported seperately from the grid as required in some fire and seismic codes, they do not have to be fastened to the grid. If they are supprted by the grid (an not from the building structure) then they must be fastened to the grid. What is the problem someone is trying to correct?

If the fixtures are supported seperately from the grid as required in some fire and seismic codes, they do not have to be fastened to the grid.

Not neccessarily. The seismic requirments in my area require you positively attach the fixture to the grid system and also provide 2 seismic support wires from oppisite corners of the fixture to the structure above.

Chris