[DIYMOM&DAD]

Hi There,
We have just installed (okay....we had someone come and install) a drop ceiling in our basement but now we do not know how to go about getting the light fixtures down from the studs they are currently attached to. I want to drop them and then add the fixtures but I'm afraid it will be too heavy. Do I have to get pot lights??? Any help would be GREATLY apprectiated!!!!!

 

[PaliBob]

I used Halo H5 cans in my dropped ceiling. The housing comes in several varieties. For your application the two main types are H5T for incandescent bulbs and H5131C for compact fluorescents. Both types have mounting arms that connect to the track. They require 7" of vertical space but they can be spaced between the joists for more clearance.

Here is the Data sheet for the H5T:
http://www.cooperlighting.com/specfiles/productinfopdf/H5T.pdf

Amazon.com has the H5T
http://www.amazon.com/Halo-H5T-5-Inch-Recessed-Housing/dp/B000JFJ8CW

Here is the Data sheet for the H5131C
http://www.cooperlighting.com/specfiles/productinfopdf/H513_IC.pdf

EDIT:
Attached pic is from Amazon.
Bulb and Trim is not included

 

[nap]

what kind of fixtures do you have now. I install 2X4 lay in fixtures all the time with no problems.


additional support wires can be added to the perimeter of the light "hole" if needed and many fixture even provide facilities to install support wires directly to the fixture.

On the job I am currently working, we have some 50 or 60 lb light fixtures (quite heavy for drop ceiling fixtures). We installed a support system where the light is not supported by the grid at all but by the support system which is attached to the hard deck.

 

[jimmy21]

If the tbar is anything like the ones I'm used to. The grid wires are so often tha can support a lot of wieght . But fixtures should also have wires to support the.

 

[J. V.]

I would use 2x4 "lay-in" florescent fixtures. They fit in just like the ceiling panels. (they take the place of one ceiling panel). You can then drop a length of NM or MC from the light box above to the new fixture. These type of fixtures are in many many office buildings, so look around. Make sure you put blank covers on the existing now hidden boxes. Get blank covers with a KO in them. This way you can install your cable and connector into the cover. Or, just use the KO on the box itself. Some jurisdictions require a means of support other than the ceiling grid. I am not sure if it's required by the NEC. Supporting the fixture would leave no room for error.
They also make special ceiling boxes just for drop ceilings. Do some shopping, and look at the different types available.