Norman Lamps, Inc.

NLI offers several options for LED can light fixtures. The Pro-Start brand Recessed Retrofit "RR" dimmable series allow for a universal fit into any standard 4 inch, 5 inch, or 6 inch recessed can. With four color temperatures to choose from, we guarantee the perfect light for your particular requirements. Virtually limitless applications ranging from at-home residential use in kitchens and bathrooms, to commercial and industrial areas needing quality recessed illumination. These retrofit kits provide exceptional value by allowing you to convert existing recessed fixtures to LED technology without replacing the entire housing.

Retrofit LED downlights represent one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to modernize your lighting. Rather than removing and replacing entire recessed can fixtures—which requires electrical work, drywall repair, and repainting—retrofit kits install in minutes by simply removing the old bulb and trim, connecting the retrofit adapter to the existing socket, and securing the new LED trim ring. This straightforward installation means you can upgrade dozens of fixtures in a single afternoon with no special tools beyond a stepladder. The universal design accommodates most recessed can sizes and types, including IC-rated (insulation contact) housings.

The energy savings with LED retrofit kits are immediate and substantial. A typical 15-watt LED retrofit produces light equivalent to a 65-75 watt incandescent or halogen bulb while using 75-80% less electricity. For a home with 20 recessed lights used an average of 4 hours daily, switching to LED retrofits saves approximately $200-250 annually in electricity costs. The 50,000+ hour lifespan means these retrofits will likely outlast your time in the home—that's over 17 years of continuous 24/7 operation, or 30+ years of typical daily use. You'll essentially never change these bulbs again.

Color temperature selection allows precise control over the ambiance and functionality of each space. The 2700K option delivers warm white light similar to traditional incandescent bulbs, perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas where you want cozy, inviting illumination. The 3000K soft white works well in kitchens and bathrooms, providing slightly crisper light while maintaining warmth. Moving to 4000K natural white gives you brighter, more energizing light suitable for task-oriented spaces like workshops and laundries. The 5000K daylight option produces very white, vibrant illumination preferred by some for reading nooks, home offices, and garages where clarity and alertness matter most.

Modern LED retrofit kits excel at beam angle control and light quality. Unlike older LED bulbs that concentrated light in narrow beams, quality retrofit downlights use advanced optics to deliver wide, even illumination that matches or exceeds the light distribution of traditional recessed bulbs. High CRI (Color Rendering Index) ratings of 90+ ensure colors appear natural and true under the light, important for applications like closets (seeing clothing colors accurately), kitchens (food preparation), and anywhere color perception matters. The smooth, flicker-free light output provides comfortable illumination without the buzzing or flickering sometimes associated with older LED technology.

Dimming compatibility has improved dramatically with current LED retrofit technology, though success depends on both the retrofit kit and your dimmer switch. Look for retrofits specifically labeled as dimmable if you need dimming functionality, and verify compatibility with your existing dimmer or be prepared to upgrade to an LED-compatible dimmer switch. Modern LED dimmers provide smooth dimming from 100% down to 10% or lower without flickering, humming, or dropping out. The ability to dim LED retrofits enhances their versatility—bright task lighting when needed, subtle ambient lighting for evenings, and everything in between.

Installation considerations include ensuring adequate clearance in the recessed can housing for the retrofit kit's driver and heat sink, verifying that your existing cans are compatible (most are), and confirming proper electrical connections. The junction box adapter connects to your existing socket, eliminating any need to work with household wiring directly. Most retrofit kits include spring clips or torsion springs that lock into grooves inside the can housing, holding the unit securely in place. The integrated design combines LED light source, driver, trim ring, and diffuser lens in one assembly, streamlining installation and improving reliability by eliminating multiple connection points.

Air sealing benefits of quality LED retrofit kits shouldn't be overlooked, particularly in climate-controlled spaces. Many retrofit downlights feature gaskets that seal against the ceiling, preventing conditioned air from escaping into the attic or unconditioned space above. This air sealing can improve HVAC efficiency and comfort while qualifying for energy efficiency rebates in some jurisdictions. The cool operation of LED technology means less heat transfer through the fixture into attic spaces during summer months, further contributing to cooling efficiency.

Common Applications: Residential recessed lighting (living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, hallways), commercial downlighting (offices, retail stores, restaurants, hotels), hospitality settings, display lighting, new construction and retrofit projects, energy efficiency upgrades

Key Advantages: Simple installation with no fixture replacement required, 75-80% energy savings, 50,000+ hour lifespan, multiple color temperatures available, smooth dimming capabilities, universal compatibility, improved light quality with high CRI, air sealing benefits, cool operation

Available Sizes: 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch retrofit kits to fit standard recessed can housings. Choose based on your existing can size.