Residential & Commercial Electrical Services
Lighting Installation & Upgrades
Transform your home or business with expert lighting installation from licensed master electrician George Koletas (License #E422, City of Troy) . From recessed lighting and chandeliers to landscape lights and smart lighting systems, we deliver beautiful, energy-efficient lighting solutions throughout the Capital Region, NY.
Lighting is more than just illumination—it shapes how you experience every space in your home or business. Whether you’re upgrading outdated fixtures, adding recessed lighting for a modern look, or installing smart lighting systems for convenience and energy savings, professional installation makes all the difference. Licensed master electrician George Koletas (License #E422) brings expertise in lighting design and installation to help you create the perfect ambiance while ensuring safety and code compliance.
Professional recessed lighting installation creating perfect ambiance and functionality
Our Lighting Installation Services
Koletas Electric provides comprehensive lighting installation and upgrade services for residential and commercial properties throughout the Capital Region. From simple fixture replacements to complete lighting system design, we handle projects of any scope with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality.
1
Recessed Lighting Installation
Modern recessed lights (also called can lights or downlights) provide clean, unobtrusive illumination perfect for any room. We handle layout design, proper spacing, and installation of LED recessed lights with dimming capability for ultimate control.
2
Chandelier & Fixture Installation
From elegant chandeliers to modern pendant lights, we install all types of decorative lighting fixtures. We ensure proper electrical box support, safe installation, and perfect positioning to enhance your space.
3
Landscape & Outdoor Lighting
Extend your living space outdoors with professional landscape lighting. We install pathway lights, spotlights, deck lighting, and architectural accent lighting to enhance curb appeal, safety, and security while meeting outdoor electrical code requirements.
4
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Transform your kitchen with under-cabinet lighting that provides perfect task illumination for food prep while adding beautiful ambient lighting. We install LED strip lights or puck lights with seamless wiring and switching options.
5
LED Lighting Upgrades
Reduce energy costs and improve lighting quality by upgrading to LED technology. We replace outdated incandescent and fluorescent fixtures with energy-efficient LED alternatives that provide better light quality and last years longer.
6
Smart Lighting Systems
Control your lighting from anywhere with smart lighting installation. We install WiFi-enabled switches, dimmers, and fixtures compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit for voice control, scheduling, and automation.
- ⚡ 2023 NEC Lighting Requirements
All lighting installations by Koletas Electric comply with the 2023 National Electrical Code, which New York State adopted effective December 31, 2025. Key requirements include:
- NEC Article 410: Luminaires, lampholders, and lamps – governs all lighting fixture installation, mounting, and electrical connections
- NEC Article 210.70: Lighting outlets required in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, hallways, stairways, and outdoor entrances
- NEC 410.16: Recessed fixtures must have proper clearances and thermal protection to prevent fire hazards
- Outdoor lighting: Must use wet-location or damp-location rated fixtures and GFCI protection as required
George Koletas (Master Electrician License #E422) stays current with all NEC updates through continuous IBEW Local 236 training, ensuring your lighting installation is safe, legal, and inspectable.
Benefits of Professional Lighting Installation
While DIY lighting projects might seem simple, professional installation provides significant advantages:
Safety & Code Compliance
Licensed electricians understand proper wire sizing, circuit loading, junction box requirements, and fixture mounting to prevent electrical fires and ensure code compliance. George Koletas handles all permits and inspections, providing documentation for insurance and future home sales.
Landscape lighting enhances curb appeal, safety, and security
Expert Design & Layout
Proper lighting design requires understanding of spacing, fixture selection, color temperature, and dimming compatibility. We help you create layered lighting with ambient, task, and accent lighting for perfect illumination in every space.
Energy Efficiency
Modern LED lighting uses 75-80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and lasts 25 times longer. We help you select the most efficient fixtures and calculate energy savings to justify your investment.
Property Value
Quality lighting installation enhances your home’s appeal and functionality. Updated lighting is consistently cited as one of the highest-ROI home improvements, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces.
Commercial Panel Upgrades
We provide panel upgrades and service modifications for commercial properties, including three-phase power installations, tenant improvement electrical work, building code upgrades, and coordination with commercial property requirements.
The Koletas Electric Lighting Installation Process
Our systematic approach ensures beautiful, safe, and code-compliant lighting installation every time:
- Free Consultation & Design Assessment: George Koletas personally visits your home or business to discuss your lighting goals, assess your space, and understand your vision. We evaluate existing electrical capacity, suggest fixture options, discuss color temperature preferences, and provide honest recommendations for the best lighting design to achieve your objectives.
- Custom Lighting Design & Planning: We create a detailed lighting plan showing fixture placement, switching options, and dimming zones. You’ll receive a comprehensive proposal with fixture specifications, layout diagrams, and a clear timeline. We explain all options and answer questions so you understand exactly what you’re getting.
- Transparent Pricing & Approval: Receive upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Our detailed estimate breaks down materials, labor, permits, and any necessary electrical work. We explain the scope of work, timeline, and answer all your questions before starting any work. No surprises—just honest, competitive pricing.
- Permit Application & Coordination: For installations requiring permits, we handle all applications with local authorities. This ensures your lighting installation meets all code requirements and provides proper documentation for insurance and future home sales.
- Professional Installation: Our licensed electrician performs the lighting installation with precision and attention to detail. We protect your home with drop cloths and floor protection, maintain a clean work area throughout the project, and complete most residential lighting projects in 1-3 days depending on scope.
- Quality Control & Testing: Every installation is thoroughly tested for proper operation, safety, and functionality. We verify all switches and dimmers work correctly, ensure proper fixture mounting and stability, test all connections for safety, and demonstrate operation of smart lighting features if applicable.
- Cleanup & Final Walkthrough: We patch and paint any drywall openings (recessed lighting installations), remove all debris and packaging materials, vacuum and clean the work area, and perform a complete walkthrough with you to ensure your total satisfaction.
- Documentation & Support: You receive complete documentation including warranty information for all fixtures and installation work, operation instructions for smart lighting systems, updated circuit directory if new circuits were added, permit documentation and inspection certificates, and ongoing support for any questions or adjustments.
Why Choose Koletas Electric for Lighting?
George Koletas brings 15+ years of licensed electrical experience and specialized knowledge in lighting design and installation to every project:
- Licensed Master Electrician: License #E422 (City of Troy, NY) with expertise in residential and commercial lighting installation
- Design Consultation: We help you select the right fixtures, placement, and controls to achieve your vision while staying within budget
- Quality Products: We work with trusted lighting manufacturers and supply houses to source high-quality, warrantied fixtures
- Clean Installation: We protect your home, patch drywall when needed, and leave your space cleaner than we found it
- Smart Home Integration: Expertise in modern smart lighting systems compatible with home automation platforms
- Permits & Inspections: We handle all required permits and coordinate inspections for peace of mind
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does recessed lighting installation cost?
Recessed lighting installation typically costs $150-$300 per light fixture, including materials and labor. The total project cost depends on the number of fixtures, your home’s construction (accessibility of ceiling joists), whether new wiring is required, and fixture selection (standard vs. IC-rated vs. smart/dimmable LED fixtures). A typical living room with 6-8 recessed lights might cost $1,200-$2,000 installed. George Koletas provides free, detailed estimates with transparent pricing—call 518-406-6021 for your personalized quote.
Can you install a chandelier if there's only a ceiling fan box?
It depends on the weight of the chandelier and the existing electrical box. Standard ceiling fan boxes are rated for 50 pounds, which accommodates most residential chandeliers. However, if your chandelier is heavier or the existing box isn’t properly rated, we’ll install a new electrical box with proper bracing rated for the fixture’s weight. This ensures safe, code-compliant installation. George Koletas will assess your specific situation during the free consultation and recommend the safest installation method.
Do LED lights really save money on electricity?
Yes—LED lights use approximately 75-80% less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs and last 15-25 times longer. For example, a 60-watt incandescent bulb replaced with a 9-watt LED provides the same light output while saving about $80 in energy costs over the LED’s lifetime. For a typical home with 40+ light bulbs, upgrading to LED can save $200-$400 per year on electric bills. Additionally, LEDs produce less heat, reducing cooling costs in summer. The initial investment in quality LED fixtures or bulbs typically pays for itself within 1-2 years through energy savings.
What's the difference between warm white and cool white LED lights?
Yes, electrical panel upgrades require permits and inspections in the Capital Region. This protects you by ensuring work meets the 2023 National Electrical Code standards (adopted by New York State on December 31, 2025) and provides documentation for insurance and future home sales. Koletas Electric handles all permit applications, coordinates inspections with local building departments, and provides you with all necessary documentation including permits, inspection certificates, and updated circuit directories. As a Licensed Master Electrician (#E422), George Koletas is authorized to pull permits in Capital Region municipalities. Never hire an electrician who suggests skipping permits—it’s illegal, voids insurance coverage, and creates liability for you as the homeowner.
What's the difference between a panel upgrade and a service upgrade?
The difference is color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). Warm white (2700K-3000K) produces a yellowish, cozy glow similar to traditional incandescent bulbs—ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. Cool white (3500K-4100K) provides neutral, brighter light suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces. Daylight (5000K-6500K) mimics natural daylight with a bluish-white tone, perfect for task lighting, garages, and commercial spaces. Most homes use warm white for ambient lighting and cool white or daylight for task areas. George Koletas can help you select the right color temperature for each space during your lighting consultation.
Can you add dimmer switches to existing lights?
Yes, adding dimmer switches is a straightforward upgrade for most lighting circuits. However, you must use dimmers compatible with your bulb type—LED bulbs require LED-compatible dimmers, while older incandescent bulbs work with standard dimmers. Not all LED fixtures are dimmable, so we verify compatibility before installation. We can install traditional rotary dimmers, modern slide dimmers, or smart dimmer switches that integrate with home automation systems. Dimming capability extends bulb life, saves energy, and provides perfect lighting control for any activity or mood. George Koletas will assess your existing circuits and recommend the best dimming solution for your needs.
How long does lighting installation take?
Installation time varies by project scope. Simple fixture replacements (replacing an existing light with a new one) typically take 30 minutes to 1 hour per fixture. Recessed lighting installation takes 2-4 hours per fixture when running new wiring and cutting ceiling openings. A complete room lighting upgrade (6-8 recessed lights) usually takes 1-2 days. Landscape lighting projects range from half a day for simple pathway lighting to 2-3 days for comprehensive outdoor lighting systems with multiple zones. George Koletas provides accurate time estimates during your free consultation and schedules work at your convenience to minimize disruption.
Do I need a permit for lighting installation?
It depends on the scope of work and local requirements. Simple fixture replacements (swapping one light for another on an existing electrical box) typically don’t require permits. However, installing new circuits, recessed lighting with new wiring, or extensive lighting systems usually requires an electrical permit and inspection. Outdoor landscape lighting often requires permits, especially when running new circuits or burying electrical lines. Koletas Electric handles all permit applications and coordinates inspections when required, ensuring your lighting installation is fully compliant with local codes and regulations. Never hire an electrician who suggests skipping permits when they’re required—it’s illegal and creates liability.
What is smart lighting and how does it work?
Smart lighting uses WiFi-enabled switches, dimmers, or bulbs that connect to your home network, allowing control via smartphone apps, voice assistants (Alexa, Google Home, Siri), or automation routines. You can turn lights on/off remotely, adjust brightness, change colors (with RGB smart bulbs), set schedules, and create scenes for different activities. Smart lighting integrates with other smart home devices for automation—for example, lights can automatically turn on when motion is detected or dim when you start watching a movie. George Koletas installs smart switches (which work with any bulb) or smart fixtures, configures the system with your preferred platform, and demonstrates operation to ensure you’re comfortable with the technology.
Serving the Capital Region, NY
Koletas Electric provides expert lighting installation and upgrade services throughout the Capital Region of New York. Whether you’re updating a single room or designing a comprehensive lighting system for your entire home or business, George Koletas delivers the expertise, quality, and customer service you deserve.
Transform your space with professional lighting installation. Contact us today for your free consultation and estimate.
Ready to Upgrade?
Get a free, no-obligation estimate from Licensed Master Electrician George Koletas (License #E422). IBEW Local 236 member with 15+ years of experience.
- Licensed Master Electrician #E422
- Same-Day Emergency Service
- Upfront Pricing, No Hidden Fees
- Family-Owned Local Business
- IBEW Local 236 Union Member
- All Permits & Inspections Included
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