Lighting Basics: Useful Calculations
Remember those word problems in math? Well, we have another one for you.
A bedroom measures 12 feet by 14 feet. How many light bulbs and in what wattage do you need to illuminate the room properly?
If you don’t know the answer, don’t worry. We’ll share with you an easy formula for calculating how much lighting you need so you’re never in the dark.
General use lighting
Calculate the square footage of your room by multiplying the length times the width.
So, let’s say your room measures 12 feet by 14 feet.
12 x 14=168 square feet.
Next, multiply the square footage by 1.5, and that will tell you the proper footage wattage to light the room for general use.
165 x 1.5=252 watts.
To ensure the room is properly lit, you’ll need to make sure the wattage output by your chandeliers, sconces, lamps and any other lighting in the room equal at least 252 watts.
When choosing fixtures and bulbs, you’ll want to make sure the combined wattage is 252 watts or greater.
In our example, an 8-light chandelier using 40-watt bulbs would provide more than ample lighting for your space.
Task lighting
For task lighting, such as in a kitchen or a home office, multiply the square footage by 2.5 to determine your wattage needs.
165 x 2.5= 420 watts.
Now, just make sure the wattage of your bulbs equals 420 or greater, and your room and workspaces will be properly lit.