What does the designation IC mean when looking at a spotlight?

The designation IC stands for "insulation contact," which indicates that the spotlight is safe to use in insulated ceilings. This means that these fixtures can be installed in locations where they come into direct contact with insulation material, which helps prevent fire hazards that could arise from heat accumulation.

Using IC-rated fixtures is particularly important in areas where insulation might be placed too close to a standard non-IC light fixture, as those could overheat and pose a fire risk. Therefore, understanding this designation is crucial for ensuring that lighting installations are both safe and up to code. It is especially relevant for home inspectors, as they need to assess whether the right type of fixtures is used in appropriate spaces within a home.