I've been trying to make sense of all the different recessed lighting options. Here's the setup I'd like. Is this possible?
* 6 recessed lights connected to single dimmer, Insulated Ceiling, New construction
Fine, should be simple enough to do, this is a standard circuit.
* Have the option to use
either dimmable CFLs OR incandescents
Any incandescent recess fixture will accept any screw in CFL. Need to be sure the trim will fit the lamp you chose, either Inc of CFL.
* bulbs of either type should not extend beneath the can/ceiling level
This will depend on the trim and lamp match.
- What kind of dimmer switch would I need? Is there an Insteon (home automation) version available?
Insteon
These are standard dimmers for incandescent lamps. Any CFL must be dimmable, which will be usable in an incandescent dimmer.
- Are dimming components contained in the switch, the recessed lighting can, or both? Why do some can setups say they are dimmable but others dont?
Usually the dimmer action is done at the switch level. Some cans may be CFL only using plug in CFL lamps, and the ballast is not dimmable.
If we knew what make and model number(s) of recess fixtures your considering, we could comment better.
- Is there a way to have the light coverage dispersed and wide as opposed to narrow and cylindrical? Is there a way to achieve this without the bulb hanging below the ceiling level?
Beam spread or light distribution is done by a reflector, which can be done with a trim of a recess fixture, or a lamp. A standard A lamp, your plain vanilla everyday light bulb, or a spiral CFL lamp, is a point source and would need a reflector trim. or you can use a Reflector lamp, either Inc or CFL, in a recess can without a reflector trim.