Our guide to installing recessed spotlights: steps, tips and mistakes to avoid

Why choose recessed spotlights for your interior?

Recessed spotlights have become a staple of interior lighting, both for their aesthetics and practicality. They provide elegant, well-distributed light without any visual clutter, ideal for contemporary interiors. Installed on the ceiling or in a false ceiling, they blend perfectly into the room's architecture.

Beyond their discretion, recessed LED spotlights stand out for their energy efficiency. Unlike halogen spotlights , they consume much less electricity while providing a high-performance light output . Their versatility allows them to be used in any room: living room, kitchen, hallway, bathroom or even bedroom, for general or targeted lighting. Finally, thanks to their strategic positioning, ceiling spotlights help to highlight certain spaces, accentuate decorative elements or create a warm atmosphere. An ideal choice for an interior that is both functional and refined.

5 Steps to Installing Recessed Spotlights

Properly installing recessed spotlights requires following a clear and structured process. Whether you're an experienced DIYer or a knowledgeable amateur, these five steps will guide you toward a successful, safe, and aesthetically pleasing installation. From planning to powering up, each phase is important.

1. Define the optimal location and spacing of the spotlights

The distribution of recessed LED spotlights directly influences the quality of the lighting. It is recommended to maintain a distance of 1 to 1.5 meters between each spotlight, depending on their power and the desired luminous flux . This arrangement avoids shadows and ensures uniform lighting. Remember to clearly identify traffic areas or surfaces to be highlighted (worktop, table, reading corner).

2. Check the ceiling compatibility and draw the lines

Recessed spotlights require a suitable support, such as a false ceiling made of plasterboard, wood, or removable tiles. Once the locations are determined, use a template and a pencil to precisely mark the holes to be drilled. Ensure the structure allows for concealment of cables and boxes.

3. Drill and install the flush-mounted boxes

Get a drill with a hole saw that fits the diameter of your spotlights (often 68 mm to 75 mm). Drill slowly and cleanly to avoid damaging the ceiling. Then install the recessed boxes that will hold the LED spotlights .

4. Do the electrical wiring and connect the spotlights together

Before performing any electrical work, turn off the power at the switchboard. Wiring can be done in series or parallel depending on the configuration. Use terminal blocks or quick connectors to connect the wires. It is essential to comply with the NF C 15-100 standard, which requires the use of suitable cables and differential protection devices for lighting circuits.

5. Fix and test the recessed spotlights

Once the wiring is complete, insert the spotlights into their sockets. Most have spring-loaded tabs that hold the assembly in place. Restore power and test operation. Make sure all extra-low-voltage or LED spotlights light up properly and that the assembly is securely attached.

Where and how to properly place recessed spotlights?

Properly positioning ceiling spotlights is essential to ensure both effective and harmonious lighting. In addition to regular spacing, you must also consider the room's function, the areas to be illuminated, and the desired type of light. To choose the right spotlights , it is recommended to calculate the number needed based on the surface area and the expected light intensity.

On average, a living room requires about 300 lux per square meter. To determine how many spotlights to install, use this simple formula:

Room area (m²) × 300 lux ÷ luminous flux of a spotlight (in lumens)

Example: For a 20 m² living room with 600 lumen spotlights, you'll need about 10 recessed LED spotlights for even lighting. Be sure to check the bulb specifications (power, flux, beam) before installation.

Mistakes to avoid when positioning spotlights

• Irregular spacing: too close together, the spotlights create an unpleasant “spotlight” effect; too far apart, they leave shadowy areas.
• Poorly oriented orientation: A poorly directed angle can make the lighting uncomfortable or ineffective.
• Non-compliance with wet areas: in the bathroom, certain locations require waterproof spotlights with an IP44 or IP65 protection rating.

Room-by-room layout examples

Living room: Install recessed spotlights above relaxation areas (sofa, bookcase) for ambient lighting, and combine them with decorative lighting such as wall sconces.

Kitchen: Choose functional lighting, especially under wall units and above countertops. Cool-light LED bulbs are ideal for better visibility.

Bathroom: Strictly respect safety distances from water points. Opt for IP65 halogen or LED spotlights in the shower and IP44 above the sink to combine safety and aesthetics.

Adding a recessed spotlight after installation: how to do it?

Sometimes you might want to add a light after the initial installation, especially to correct a lack of lighting or enhance certain areas. Fortunately, it's possible to add a recessed spotlight without having to redo everything, provided you proceed methodically.

First, check that there is enough space in the ceiling to accommodate a new spotlight without damaging the existing cables. Use a metal detector or inspection camera if necessary. Also, make sure the ceiling can support a new cutout in the right location.

For the connection, two main options are available to you:

• Bypass : you connect to an existing spotlight to power the new one, while respecting electrical standards.
• In parallel : each spotlight is powered separately from the main circuit, which provides better voltage stability.

Remember to check the maximum power rating of the circuit breaker for the circuit in question. Adding too many LED recessed spotlights to a single circuit can cause an overload. If in doubt, consult a professional electrician for a safe and compliant installation.

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Recessed Spotlights

Installing ceiling spotlights may seem simple, but some common mistakes can compromise the aesthetics, safety, or performance of your lighting. Here are three pitfalls to avoid.

• The first mistake is neglecting ventilation . Although recessed LED spotlights generate less heat than halogen spotlights, they require sufficient space behind them to prevent overheating. Poor ventilation can shorten the lifespan of the fixtures and create an electrical hazard.
• Second common mistake: installing an incompatible dimmer . Not all LED bulbs are dimmable. Using a conventional dimmer with unsuitable spotlights can cause flickering, unwanted noise, and even damage the system. It is therefore essential to check the compatibility of the equipment before installation.
• Finally, the last mistake is also the most dangerous : forgetting to turn off the power. Before working on the network, it is essential to turn off the power at the electrical panel. A simple check with a voltage tester allows you to work safely.