Calculating the number of light fixtures needed for kitchen cabinets involves considering various factors, such as the size of the kitchen, the layout of the cabinets, the desired level of illumination, and the type of light fixtures you plan to use. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you with the calculation:
Determine the kitchen area: Measure the length and width of your kitchen to calculate the square footage. For example, if your kitchen is 10 feet long and 12 feet wide, the area would be 10 feet x 12 feet = 120 square feet.
Decide on the light intensity: The recommended level of illumination for a kitchen is usually around 70-100 foot-candles (fc) or lumens per square foot. Depending on your preference and the kitchen's use (e.g., task lighting, ambient lighting), you can choose the desired light intensity. Let's assume you want 80 fc of light.
Calculate the total lumens needed: To find the total lumens required for your kitchen, multiply the square footage by the desired foot-candle value. Using our example, 120 square feet x 80 fc = 9,600 lumens.
Select light fixture type: Different types of light fixtures have varying lumen outputs. LED lights are common and come in different wattages, producing different amounts of lumens. Choose a fixture with a lumen output that matches or exceeds the total lumens you calculated in step 3.
Consider the light spread: Depending on the type of light fixture and its beam angle, the light spread may differ. For kitchen cabinets, it's essential to ensure even illumination across the countertop and work areas. Adjustable fixtures or multiple smaller fixtures might be necessary to achieve this.
Calculate the number of fixtures: Divide the total lumens needed (step 3) by the lumens produced by a single light fixture. For example, if a single light fixture produces 1,200 lumens, you'd need 9,600 lumens / 1,200 lumens per fixture = 8 fixtures.
Account for placement: The placement of light fixtures should be evenly distributed to avoid shadows and provide consistent lighting. Consider placing fixtures strategically above or below the cabinets to illuminate the countertop and workspaces effectively.
Keep in mind that this is a general guideline, and you may need to adjust the number of light fixtures based on your specific kitchen layout, the fixture's characteristics, and personal preferences. Additionally, it's advisable to consult with a professional electrician or lighting designer to ensure you get the best lighting solution for your kitchen cabinets.