top of page

How to Decide the Right Amount of Light (Lumens) Needed for Your Space

Writer's picture: Daniel EhingerDaniel Ehinger

Updated: Feb 4

How to Decide the Right Amount of Light (Lumens) Needed for Your Space


When it comes to lighting your home, finding the right balance between functionality and ambiance is key. One of the most common questions I hear as an electrical contractor is, “How much light do I need for this space?” The answer lies in understanding lumens, the measurement of brightness, and how to apply them to your unique space. Here’s a guide to help you decide the right amount of light for your home.


First, it’s important to understand what lumens are and why they matter. Lumens measure the amount of visible light a bulb produces. Unlike watts, which only indicate energy consumption, lumens tell you how bright the light will be. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light. For example, a traditional 60-watt incandescent bulb produces about 800 lumens, while a 100-watt bulb emits around 1600 lumens. With LED lighting, these same brightness levels can be achieved with significantly lower wattage, making lumens the standard measure of light output in modern lighting design.


Lighting facts label showing light output, watts, efficacy, and color temperature (2900 Warm White). Includes brand and CRI information.
Lumens and Color of light can be found on the LED Fact table on most packaging.

Next, consider the purpose of the space and how it will be used. Different rooms require different levels of brightness, depending on their function. For general guidelines:

• Living rooms and bedrooms: These spaces benefit from softer, more relaxing light, so aim for 1,500 to 3,000 lumens total. Use layered lighting, like table lamps and wall sconces, to create a cozy atmosphere.

• Kitchens and bathrooms: These task-oriented areas need brighter lighting, so aim for 4,000 to 8,000 lumens total. Focus on overhead fixtures and under-cabinet lighting to ensure functionality.

• Home offices and workspaces: For areas where you need to focus, aim for 3,000 to 6,000 lumens to reduce eye strain and provide clear visibility. Adjustable desk lamps can be a helpful addition.

• Garages and utility rooms: Bright, even lighting is essential for safety and productivity in these spaces. Aim for 5,000 to 10,000 lumens, depending on the size of the area.


Room size also plays a critical role in determining the total lumens needed. A larger space requires more light to achieve the same level of brightness as a smaller room. Use this simple formula as a starting point: multiply the square footage of the room by the recommended lumens per square foot. For general lighting, aim for 20 lumens per square foot in living spaces, 30 lumens per square foot in kitchens and bathrooms, and 50 lumens per square foot in task areas like offices or workshops. For example, a 200-square-foot living room would require about 4,000 lumens (200 x 20), while a 100-square-foot kitchen would need about 3,000 lumens (100 x 30).


Modern bathroom with dual sinks, large mirror, marble walls, and neat folded towels. Bright lighting creates a clean, serene atmosphere.
This is a good example of layered lighting with the main LED wall sconce bar above the sink, under sink lighting and closet lighting shown, not shown may be recessed LED fixtures used for general lighting. Photo from Lumens.com a premier source for lighting fixtures and home decor.

Don’t forget to account for the type of lighting fixture and bulb you’re using. A recessed light might distribute brightness differently than a pendant or table lamp. Layered lighting—combining overhead, accent, and task lighting—ensures even light distribution and allows you to adjust brightness levels as needed. Dimmable LEDs can also help you fine-tune the amount of light for various activities or times of day.


Lastly, consider the color temperature of the light, measured in Kelvin (K), as it impacts how bright the light feels. A warm white light (2700K-3000K) may feel softer and less intense, while cool white or daylight (4000K-6500K) can enhance brightness and visibility, making it ideal for task-oriented spaces.


By understanding lumens and tailoring your lighting choices to the size, purpose, and layout of your space, you can create a comfortable and functional environment. If you’re still unsure, consult us at Elect Electric and we can provide expert advice and ensure your home is perfectly lit. Lighting is an essential part of your home’s design, so take the time to get it just right!








About the Authors:


This blog post was originally written by ChatGPT and Grok 2 prompted by Daniel Ehinger, an experienced electrician dedicated to promoting electrical safety and best practices. The content was edited and enhanced by Daniel Ehinger, who provided valuable insights and improvements to ensure accuracy, clarity and readability.

0 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page