The Installation of recessed lighting will add a dramatic element to your boringly familiar dining room, highlight those items you want to show off and brighten those corners you always thought dark.

The job of installation isn't a very difficult one. Dropped ceilings or access from above makes it easier still. Proximity to power is another important factor. If a ceiling box already exists where you want your light, you just disconnect the wires from the box and reattach them to the cut-in can. To do that, you cut a circular hole in the ceiling and attach the lead wires to the junction box. Then you slide the fixture up into the ceiling until the fixture's mounting clips catch. In the absence of a handy electrical outlet, you need to hire an electrician to run wire to the new fixture. But you can save a lot of money if you can manage it yourself.

For safety, always buy an insulation-contact (IC) rated fixture. Insulation coming in contact with an improperly rated recessed light can spark a fire.

Here is a step-by-step approach you can follow.

First, cut an opening and wire the light. Switch off the power. Locate the ceiling joists and trace the outline of the fixture onto the ceiling. Cut the opening for the recessed light between the joists. Insert the cable into the junction box and fasten it with a cable clamp. Strip the wires and splice them to the fixture wires. Connect the matching wires, stuff the wires into the box and fasten its cover.

Now install the fixture housing. Rotate the housing into place in the ceiling until the mounting tabs engage the ceiling and the fixture is secure. You dont need to secure the junction box to a joist.

Finally, install inner baffle and trim. After the housing clips are snug, attach the inner baffle and any other trim to the fixture housing. Install the bulb, restore power and youre through.