Suspended ceiling lighting options include fluorescent tube lights.
Suspended ceilings are semi-permanent coverings often used in places like basements where access to building mechanical systems may be necessary. Off-the-shelf lighting options for suspended ceilings differ somewhat from those for standard drywall ceilings. The wiring is usually less direct, and frequently, connections are made through 4- to 6-foot metal-clad sheathed cable.
Fluorescent Tube
Fluorescent light fixtures set directly into the suspended ceiling grid. The grid must be reinforced with heavy suspension wires at the four corners of the light. Two-foot and 4-foot models are available, each with either two or four fluorescent tube sockets. Fluorescent fixtures provide plenty of light, but lack the appeal of other lighting options such as can lights or track lighting. Fluorescent lights cannot be operated with dimmer switches and are better suited to situations where a constant amount of bright light is desired.
Can Lights
So called because they are shaped like an inverted can, these lights offer versatility through the use of various bulbs and different styles of trim. Can lights are recessed into the ceiling through holes made in the ceiling panels and attach to the grid on either side of the panel for support. Can lights come in sizes ranging from 2 inches to 6 inches in diameter. Light can be directed at specific features such as the wall or implements as task lighting. With incandescent bulbs, can lights can be operated from dimmer switches.
Track Lighting
Track lighting may be the most versatile of the lighting systems available, and it comes in both standard house current and low-voltage models. The wide variety of fixture types includes hanging lights, spotlights and stylish lamps hung on rods that can be bent into shapes. With the correct type of bulbs and fixtures, track lighting can be operated from dimmer switches. Track lighting fastens directly to the ceiling grid pieces. For some heavy fixtures, additional grid support wires may be required.
Luminous Ceiling
A luminous ceiling uses fluorescent fixtures that run the width and length of the room. The fixtures, usually twin tube fluorescent light fixtures, are attached to the floor joists above the suspended ceiling grid. The grid is filled in with translucent panels or a combination of translucent panels and standard suspended ceiling tiles.
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