top of page

BEST EXTERIOR RECESSED STEP LIGHT: Homeowner Favorite | 2024 Update

Writer: Steve Duncan, AIASteve Duncan, AIA

Updated: Oct 2, 2024


Snapshot:

BEST EXTERIOR RECESSED STEP LIGHT
How To Buy: Lumens.com Light Fixture: WAC LEDme Step Light WL-LED100 Dimmer Recommended By Manufacturer: Lutron DVELV-300P Color Rendering: 90+ (never buy LEDs that have a score less than 90). Many LED's have a score of 80, which is actually worse than fluorescent lighting. Color Temperature/Colored Light: 2700K, 3000K, Amber, Red, Blue Housing/Mounting: I love that this light fits into a standard 2"x4" j box. Refer to manufacturer cutsheet to confirm the best mounting approach for your project. In general, I try to mount these lights in a wall next to the stair, rather than recessing the light into the riser of the stair itself. This is because the light can be accidentally kicked by a person if it is recessed into the stair riser. Lumens: 68 Wattage: 3.9 Power Supply/Driver: This is a line voltage (120V) fixture, so a separate low voltage transformer is not required. Indoor/Outdoor: Approved for indoor locations, and outdoor locations where the light won't be submerged in water. Saving Cost: There are other step lights that are more cost effective, but the finish options are more limited.

Tips for Using This Light on Your Project | BEST EXTERIOR RECESSED STEP LIGHT:


Dimming:

All dimmers are not created equal. Flickering and buzzing can often be traced back to using a dimmer that isn’t compatible with the LED, or to connecting too many LEDs to a single dimmer. Quality lighting manufacturers often publish literature on which dimmer lines can be used with their LED light fixture. This particular light manufacturer has published a list of recommended dimmers on their cutsheet. From this list, I like to use Lutron dimmers on my projects. It is always worthwhile budgeting for quality dimmers that are compatible with the LED you have chosen.


Value Engineering & Alternates:

There are other step lights that are more cost effective, but the finish options are more limited. This particular step light is already a fairly cost effective lighting strategy for stairs. If on the other hand you'd like a step light that emits more light, consider the Ikon step light from Tech/Visual Comfort Co.


Lighting Layout

One of the most common questions I get, is "how should I lay out the lighting"? If you need help laying out your lighting, check out our free partner site LightingJUMP.com. We provide simple lighting diagrams so that you can be confident in your design.





Another common question I get, is "how many lights will I need"? If you need help figuring out how many lights are needed, try out our free partner site LightingJUMP.com. We provide simple lighting estimators so you can be confident that you will have enough light for your designs.






















I hope this helps! Reach out if you have questions, and good luck with your project!

Comments


© 2024 by HowToLight.com

If you are unfamiliar with the codes and regulations applicable to your own project, consult a local licensed professional before making a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases if you choose to follow the links provided on this website. This doesn't result in any additional cost to you as a customer.  By using this site you are agreeing to the terms, conditions, and privacy policy of HowToLight.com (view policy here).

  • Instagram
  • Youtube
bottom of page