Sealing Pot Lights

Manufactured airtight light fixture or receptacle

Illustration Source: CHBA Manual, Fig. 8.7, Pg.107

Frame and seal airtight plywood box
- Seal wiring penetrations
- Seal to air barrier with tape or gaskets as appropriate

Illustration Source: CHBA Manual, Fig. 8.3, Pg.106

Many pot light boxes that claim to be sealed, are not. It is therefore necessary to either seal the outer cabinet or install a poly pan box around the fixture. In either case it is important to maintain the required clearance from the insulation. Fixtures should be IC or non-IC (insulation cover meaning insulation can be in contact) rated. IC rated allows for insulation to be in contact with the fixture, whereas non-IC rated does not allow for insulation to be in contact with the fixture.