Recessed can light help needed.

[Stonecove]

Our kitchen has about a dozen 6" recessed can lights that have started to fail. One set on a separate circuit failed; I replaced both lightbulbs and the switch, which didn't fix the problem. Now another fixture failed; replaced the bulb and didn't solve the problem. In this case other lights on this circuit are still ok. These light fixtures are on the first floor of a 2 story house, so there is no insulation around the fixtures. We have used 65 watt bulbs since we owned the house (10 years) and all of a sudden (over 6 months) the problems cropped up. Any idea why this occurs? Can the fixtures be replaced without tearing out the ceiling? Your help is really appreciated!
Stonecove

[chief38]

The big issue in replacing the can fixture is weather they are NEW construction type or OLD construction type. If they are new construction type and have the track that allows the can to slide, you will have to cut the ceiling. If they are old construction type and they are simply nailed to a beam, you might be ably to sneak them out and replace them with similar ones.

Before ripping out the ceiling check the wiring and see if it has melted from heat. Also check to make sure the wire is still properly attached to the bulb socket. Sometimes a repair can be made.

If they are very old and the wires are damaged from heat and age, as much as you don't want to, you are probably better off replacing them all; a mess I know, but you might have little choice.

Good luck,
Chief38

[Karnivore]

Recess lights have a thermal link that shuts off power if the can is overheating.

In a first floor of a two story house this is more prone to causing a problem since the heat cannot dissipate as readily.

I would check these links to see if they have gone bad, before you pronounce the cans dead.

Good luck with your cans

[Stonecove]

Thanks guys, obviously I hope I don't have to replace them. Karnivore, how do you check the thermal link? If that is bad how do you fix it?
Thanks,
Stonecove

[sideways]

Go to one of the cans that failed it should have thermal overload on side of can you will have to remove trim to see this. Turn off power clip two wires going to overload make joint and turn on power if lite comes on you have determined that OL was bad. You can purchase replacements you'll have to go to a lighting supplier. Now you will need to side can down out of mounting bracket to get to wiring compartment the new overload wiring will terminate there you will see where old ones are. Never use lamps larger than fixture is rated for this could be the reason behind failure but more than likely it's just worn out. Can lites never put out enough lite except for egress or accent and folks tend to leave them on more than regular overhead lighting.

[mudcat100]

Also,making sure the power is off,try bending the metal tab in the center of the bottom (or top,since you'll be looking up) of the light socket to make sure it is contacting the base of the bulb.Just bend it a small amount as it may be brittle.I do this using my voltage pen because it is non-conductive.You can use a screwdriver but MAKE SURE THE POWER IS OFF or you may cause a short. Tape the screwdriver shaft with electrical tape.

[olcop]

Try replacing the bulbs with flourescent bulbs, son-in-law was having the same problem and changing the bulbs fixed it
olcop

[enfield]

The bulb sockets can also fail. If so, and if you're handy with tools, you might be able to replace them. You can get replacement sockets at your local Lowe's.

[chief38]

To test the thermal protector you have to jump it from before where the wires go in to the protector, to the socket (or just a bulb). If the light works, than the thermal protector is shot and can be replaced. Just make sure you replace them with the properly rated one and use heat resistant materials for the repair. More than likely, that is your problem. If the cans are very old they might not even have a thermal protector.

Chief38

[bricker]

Just don't leave the thermal overload "jumped out." It is a safety device.