Why Upgrade?
Ready to kick the can?
The term “can lights” once referred to traditional ceiling fixtures housed in bulky metal enclosures. Today, it also includes a newer generation of “canless” LED downlights—streamlined fixtures that install directly into ceilings without a recessed can.
Though cans make sense for certain spaces, canless lights offer major advantages: they’re energy efficient, long-lasting, and available in a wide range of styles and outputs. Many models, like Keystone’s Advanta and Aviva lines, include selectable color temperatures and wattages for added flexibility. Thanks to slim profiles and integrated drivers, they can go where older recessed lights can’t—and disappear seamlessly into the ceiling.
Choosing the Right Downlights
When it comes to lighting design, one size doesn’t fit all. Here’s a breakdown of Keystone products that can serve your needs, as well as when and why to choose each type:
1) Integrated Driver Downlight with Conduit Whip
Ideal for fast and clean installations in new construction or major renovations, this all-in-one solution features a built-in driver and conduit whip for simplified wiring. Keystone also offers a version with integrated emergency battery backup and test button in the frame, making it a go-to choice for safety compliance without needing a separate backup unit.
Best for:
- Code-driven projects requiring emergency lighting
- Installers looking to save time on wiring
- Standard ceiling cutouts in commercial or residential spaces
2) Regressed Fixture with Remote Driver
This option offers the same clean, modern look as our integrated downlight, but with a remote driver for added flexibility — ideal for shallow plenum spaces or designers who want to isolate the driver from the ceiling cavity.
Best for:
- Low-clearance ceilings
- Projects requiring remote power access or serviceability
- Installations prioritizing visual comfort with a deeply regressed lens
3) Wafer Downlights
Ultra-slim and highly versatile, wafer lights are designed for tight spaces without traditional housings. Available in both slightly regressed versions for glare reduction and gimbal models for directional lighting.
Best for:
- Retrofit jobs or new builds with limited ceiling depth
- Accent lighting or directional illumination
- Budget-conscious projects needing fast installs
4) Surface Mount Fixtures (Round, Square, or Panel)
When recessed mounting isn’t feasible, surface mount options offer a clean and modern alternative. Available in round or square styles, as well as panels for general ambient lighting.
Best for:
- Concrete ceilings or areas without plenum access
- Offices, corridors, or public spaces
- Aesthetic variety in architectural settings
5) Retrofit Trim with Standard Screw Base
A simple, no-frills solution for upgrading existing metal cans. Just screw it into a standard E26 socket and lock it into place — no need to replace the housing.
Best for:
- Quick upgrades to LED without modifying the ceiling
- Budget-friendly retrofits in homes or apartments
- Code compliance in existing recessed housings
Keystone offers a wide range of downlight solutions to match varying installation conditions, performance needs, and aesthetic preferences. Our downlight lineup makes it easy to deliver great lighting — whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading an aging system.
Installation Considerations
Switching from legacy lighting to LED downlights can reduce energy use by more than 50% and significantly lower maintenance costs. LEDs typically last over 10 years with standard use, and advances in efficiency continue to drive performance gains.
Dimming adds even more efficiency. Keystone offers a wide selection of dimmable fixtures, including Advanta recessed downlights and select Ova surface mounts with combination dimming (0-10V, TRIAC, and reverse-phase) for compatibility across systems.
Keystone fixtures also include integrated drivers, selectable wattages, and IC-rated construction for safe installation in insulated ceilings. With both driver and fixture made by the same company, compatibility and reliability are built in.
Maintenance and Support
Modern LED fixtures require very little maintenance. Keystone backs its products with a 5-year warranty—10 years for Advanta—providing long-term peace of mind.
Need help planning? Keystone’s free lighting layout services use advanced design software to recommend fixture types, spacing, and control strategies tailored to your space and budget.
If you do encounter issues, Keystone offers live video field support, dedicated tech teams, and responsive customer service to help troubleshoot or guide installation.
Final Tips
Whether you’re working on a retrofit, a renovation, or new construction, Keystone’s downlights offer flexible solutions across commercial, educational, healthcare, hospitality, and many residential settings.
With multiple styles, wattages, and accessories to simplify installation, there’s a fixture to meet every need—helping you create well-lit, energy-efficient spaces with ease.
Keystone: Light Made Easy®.
