Linear lights have become a popular choice for lighting various spaces due to their beautiful design and versatile capabilities. These lights come in two main types: surface-mounted and recessed. Surface-mounted linear lights are simply installed on the surface. On the other hand, recessed linear lights are installed inside enclosures such as false ceilings or walls, and their appearance is generally cleaner and more integrated. In this article from EDC, we will teach you how to install recessed and surface-mounted linear lights and will also review the tools needed.
What is a linear light and what is its purpose?
A linear light or light line is a type of lighting fixture that is designed in a linear shape instead of having a round or square shape. These lights are usually made up of LED strips and are placed in a narrow housing. The light emitted from these lights is linear and uniform and can illuminate the environment in an attractive way.
Linear Light Applications
Linear lights have a wide variety of applications. These applications include the following:
Interior lighting of buildings: Linear lights are used to illuminate false ceilings, under cabinets, shelves, lighting corridors, and even as ambient lighting in large spaces such as halls and lobbies.
Commercial lighting: In stores, exhibitions, and shopping malls, linear lights are used to highlight products and create an attractive atmosphere.
Office lighting: These lights are used in offices to create a beautiful environment.
Hotel and restaurant lighting: Linear lights are very popular in the interior design of hotels and restaurants due to their modern design and high flexibility.
Facade Lighting: Linear lights can be used to illuminate facades.
Surface-mounted linear lights and recessed linear lights
Surface-mounted linear lights: This type of light is installed directly on the surface and is usually suitable for spaces that require high lighting and a simple design. Surface-mounted linear lights are much easier and faster to install. These lights are often used in environments such as offices, stores and commercial spaces.
Recessed linear lights: This type of light is installed inside structures such as false ceilings, plaster walls or special enclosures. The end result generally has a cleaner appearance and is suitable for spaces that seek a modern and minimalist design. Installing recessed linear lights requires more precision and takes more time.
Tools needed to install recessed and surface-mounted linear lights
To install linear lights, whether surface-mounted or recessed, you will need the following tools:
Driver or screwdriver: To loosen and tighten screws
Meter and ruler: For precise measurements
Awl and drill bit: To drill holes in the wall or ceiling
Electrical glue and wire stripper: To connect and clean the wires
Safety gloves: To protect your hands
What types of wires are suitable for installing recessed linear lights?
Single-color and multi-color wires: Usually, multi-color electrical wires (for phase, neutral and ground) are used. Phase wires are usually brown, black or red and neutral wires are blue. Ground wires are usually green and yellow. These wires must be selected with the appropriate cross-section and electrical standards.
Multi-core wires: For the installation of recessed linear lights that require flexibility, multi-core wires (such as 2 or 3 core wires) are suitable. These wires can be easily installed in complex routes and limited space and provide the necessary flexibility for installation in channels and plaster grooves.
The wires should be selected in terms of cross-section (diameter) appropriate to the electrical load of the linear lights. Using wires with sufficient cross-section helps prevent voltage drops and increase the useful life of the system.
Thermal and waterproof insulation: For installation in different spaces, it is very important to choose wires with appropriate insulation. Thermal and waterproof insulated wires help prevent damage caused by heat or moisture and increase the useful life of the lighting system.
How to Install a Surface Mounted Linear Light
To install a surface mounted linear light, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Installation Site
Before starting the installation, you must select and prepare the installation site for the linear light. To do this:
Measurement: Carefully measure the installation site. Make sure that the length of the light is proportional to the length of the installation space.
Marking: Using a pencil or marker, mark the mounting points of the mounting brackets on the wall or ceiling.
Cleaning: Clean the installation surface so that the brackets stick better.
2. Install the mounting brackets
The mounting brackets are the main parts to which the linear light is attached. The steps for installing the brackets include:
Drilling: Using a drill, make the marked holes in the wall or ceiling. Make sure that the depth and diameter of the holes are proportional to the screws used.
Place the brackets: Place the support brackets in the holes and secure them to the surface using screws.
Check for tightness: Make sure the brackets are fully tightened and firmly in place.
3. Connect the wires
Connecting the power wires to the linear light is very important and must be done carefully:
Turn off the power: Before starting work, turn off the power to the installation site to avoid possible hazards.
Connect the wires: Connect the power wires to the linear light terminals. The phase, neutral and ground wires must be properly connected to their respective points.
Use electrical tape: To ensure a secure connection, use electrical tape and firmly attach the wires to each other.
4. Adjust the surface-mounted linear light
After preparing the site and connecting the wires,
The installation of a surface-mounted linear light is as follows:
Place the light: Place the linear light on the mounting brackets. The light may be attached to the brackets using special locks or screws.
Secure: Secure the light to the brackets using the screws provided. Make sure the light is fully and correctly installed in its place.
5. Perform final testing and adjustment
After installing the light, the final steps include:
Turn on the light: Reconnect the power and turn on the light.
Final adjustments: If additional adjustments are needed for the light or angle of the light, make them.
Check the lighting: Make sure the light is evenly and correctly providing the required lighting.
Recessed light line installation tutorial
Before starting work, determine the exact location of the recessed light line and prepare a plan for it.
Determine the size and number of light lines required.
Make sure that the existing wiring is sufficient to power the recessed linear light.
Before starting any wiring work, be sure to turn off the power.
Using a cutting template, mark the exact location of the cut on the false ceiling.
Using a saw, make the cut carefully. The cut size should be slightly larger than the dimensions of the recessed linear light.
If your light line has a frame, place the frame in the cut and secure it using special screws.
Connect the light line wires to the existing wiring.
Use appropriate connectors to connect the wires.
Place the recessed linear light in the frame or cut and secure it using special clips or screws.
Before finishing the work, connect the power and test the operation of the light line.
Cover the edges of the cut using putty or other suitable material.
How is the installation of the light line transformer done?
Installing a linear light transformer involves several key steps that must be carefully followed:
First, the location for installing the transformer must be properly selected and prepared, so that there is sufficient space for installation and ventilation.
After turning off the power, place the transformer on the brackets or stands and connect the power input wires to the input terminals of the transformer.
Then connect the output wires to the linear lights and protect the connections with insulating tape.
After turning on the power and testing the operation, make sure that the transformer is working properly and the lighting system is well supplied.
Following safety precautions and consulting with specialists if necessary will help ensure a correct and safe installation.
Surface and recessed linear light installation cost
The cost of installing a linear light depends on several factors, including the type of light (surface or recessed), the complexity of the installation, and the installation location. Installing recessed lights usually costs more than surface-mounted lights because they require cutting and installation into internal structures.
Although you can install linear lights yourself, it is recommended to seek the help of professionals for installing recessed lights.
Buy Types of Linear Lights from EDC
As a reliable and professional source in this field, EDC offers a wide range of services for purchasing types of linear lights and receiving expert advice on choosing the right light. EDC consultants will help you identify the right linear lights for various projects, including installation in false ceilings, plaster walls and other spaces, and make an accurate choice that meets your needs.
