Recessed lighting---can-lights----is very common in homes. While there are many concerns with these lights that will be the subject of future blogs, today I just want to touch on the portion that the homeowner can take care of----the bulb. All can lights have specific requirements as to what types/sizes of bulbs can be installed in them. Printed on the inside of the can-light 
(behind the decorative trim) there should be a list of the types/sizes of bulbs that can be used in the fixture in conjunction with the type of trim it has. It is beyond the scope of a Standard Home Inspection to check every single can light to verify that there are proper size bulbs in them. On occasion I will check them if there is something that leads me to believe they might be oversized.
Too often I find where the homeowner has replaced the proper bulbs with regular incandescent type bulbs. This type of bulb is on the list---but usually only up to 60 watts. The wrong types of bulbs in these fixtures can lead to overheating and possibly fire. If you cannot find the label on the inside of the can light (sometimes they get painted over) the safest recourse is to use the newer type florescent bulbs (CFLs) in them. I should note here that we all need to start getting used to the idea of CFL and/or LED type bulbs because starting in 2010 with 100 watt bulbs and ending in 2014 with 40 watt bulbs----incandescent type bulbs will be banned from use. For some good additional information visit this site---Eartheasy.
This fixture, from a recent inspection has a 75 watt incandescent bulb installed in it. Note also the improper "tap" behind the cover to run power to another light fixture.
So go check your can-lights and make sure they have the proper bulbs in them. Also keep in mind that if any of these lights are controlled by dimmer switches most CFL bulbs are not rated to be used with dimmers. GE does make such a bulb---but they are not as readily available as the regular CFL bulbs.
For an "Off-beat" version of a "real" can light visit Steve Blog.
Charles Buell
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