Under cabinet lighting is a great addition to any kitchen as it enhances the aesthetic appeal and provides ample task lighting. However, one of the critical things to consider when choosing the right under cabinet lighting is the number of lumens required for the space.
A lumen is the unit of measurement for the amount of visible light emitted by a light source. The number of lumens required depends on numerous factors, such as the size of your kitchen, the color of the walls and cabinets, and how much ambient lighting your kitchen already has.
Typically, you’ll need to provide a minimum of 300 lumens of light per linear foot of under cabinet lighting. However, this can vary depending on the size of your kitchen and the type of lighting you choose.
Table of Contents |
1. Types of Under Cabinet Lighting 2. How Many Lumens About Cabinet Lighting Do You Need? 3. Factors to Consider about under cabinet lighting 4. Conclusion |
Types of Under Cabinet Lighting
Before we get into the specifics of how many lumens you need, let’s first discuss the types of under cabinet lighting available.
LED Lights: LED lights are the most energy-efficient and cost-effective option. They are available in various colors and designs and emit a cool, bright light.
Fluorescent Lights: Fluorescent lights often have a lower cost, but they do not provide as bright and natural a light compared to LEDs. They are available in various sizes and with different color temperatures.
Xenon Lights: Xenon lights offer a warm and natural light that compares well with incandescent lighting. However, they are not as energy-efficient or cost-effective as LED lights.
Choosing the right under cabinet lighting type is essential, as it impacts not only the number of lumens required but also the overall look and ambiance of your kitchen.
How Many Lumens About Cabinet Lighting Do You Need?
As mentioned earlier, the best rule of thumb is to provide a minimum of 300 lumens per linear foot of under cabinet lighting. This will provide ample lighting for task-oriented activities in the kitchen.
To determine the number of lumens required for your kitchen, first calculate the total length of your under cabinet lighting. For example, if your kitchen’s length is 10 feet and you want to light up the entire kitchen, you’ll need to install 10 feet of under cabinet lighting. You will then need a total of 3,000 lumens (300 lumens per linear foot x 10 linear feet).
However, if you want to use under cabinet lighting for ambiance and not just for functionality, you may want to consider increasing the number of lumens required. In this case, you can use 400 lumens per linear foot or even higher, depending on your specific needs.
Factors to Consider about under cabinet lighting
When planning your under cabinet lighting, there are a few essential factors to consider, including:
Color Temperature: The color temperature of your under cabinet lighting can affect the ambiance of the kitchen. A cooler light temperature (5000K-6000K) will provide crisp white light that is perfect for task lighting. Whereas, a warmer light temperature (2700K-3000K) provides a softer, more ambient light.
Lighting Controls: Consider how you want to control your under cabinet lighting. Many options are available, including an on/off switch, dimmer switch or motion sensor.
Light Distribution: Consider the placement of your under cabinet lighting to ensure they provide even illumination. For example, placing LED strip lighting in the front of the cabinet and recessed lighting in the rear will provide better light distribution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, providing adequate lighting in your kitchen is essential for functionality, ambiance, and safety. When it comes to under cabinet lighting, keep in mind that you need to provide a minimum of 300 lumens per linear foot. Other factors to consider include the type of lighting, color temperature, and light distribution. By taking these factors into consideration, you can create a beautiful, bright, and functional kitchen that will meet your needs without sacrificing your style.