Incompatible bulb can get too hot

: A while ago you wrote about how to install a recessed can light. I already have this type of light, but I am having a problem with it. After it has been on for a while, it will sometimes just automatically turn off. Is this a problem with the electricity, the fixture or what?

A: You’re probably thinking that blinking lights don’t belong in the house, and that they belong outside during the holiday season.

It sounds like it’s the light fixture. Not that it’s broken, but it is getting too warm and shutting down.

The can light you describe is likely an IC-rated light fixture. IC stands for insulation compatible, which means that insulation can be installed directly in contact with the light fixture. This fixture has a temperature cut-off switch in case it gets too hot.

There are several reasons why the fixture may be getting too hot. The easiest fix is to check the manufacturer’s label inside the light to determine if the correct light bulb and trim kit are being used.

The label will be inside the fixture, so you will have to unscrew the bulb to read it. It will tell you the different light bulbs that are compatible, as well as the maximum wattages. Your problem may be fixed by simply replacing the bulb.

These fixtures usually have a height adjustment feature for the bulb. If your fixture has such an adjustment, lower the bulb downward. This will allow less heat to build up inside the can.

Also, check the label to make sure the trim is compatible with the housing. There are trim numbers corresponding to each bulb type. Look for a part number on the trim or housing that you can use to determine if the parts are compatible. The wrong trim can trap too much heat inside the fixture, which will trip the shut-off switch.

Add to that the insulation covering the fixture and you can get a fixture that overheats and shuts off shortly after it is turned on.

It also may be that the shut-off switch is bad. You are probably better off replacing the entire can if this is the case.

You can clear away the insulation above the can fixture, but then you will have to contain the conditioned interior air from escaping into the attic. You can do this by building an insulated box around the light fixture to ventilate the surrounding air space.

You can build the box out of rigid foam insulation. It comes in 4-foot-by-8-foot sheets and costs around $10 for a 2-inch thick sheet. The size of the box should span from one joist to the next, and there should be at least 3 inches or 4 inches between the top of the fixture to the top of the box. You also will have to notch the foam insulation to fit over the ceiling joists for a snug fit.

Glue the box together and use coarse drywall screws to hold the box together until the glue dries. Caulk the inside seams to make the box airtight. You can use construction adhesive to hold the box in place.

Michael D. Klimek is a licensed contractor and president of Pro Handyman Corp. Questions may be sent by e-mail to: questions@pro-handyman.com. Or, mail to: 2301 E. Sunset Road, Box 8053, Las Vegas, NV 89119. His Web address is: www.pro-handyman.com.