Understanding Light Measurements: Lumens and Kelvin
When shopping for lighting, you’ll often see two key measurements: lumens and Kelvin. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what they mean and how to choose the right lighting for your needs.
WHAT IS KELVIN?
Kelvin (K) measures the color temperature of a light source, which affects the mood and atmosphere of a space. The lower the Kelvin number, the warmer (more yellow/red) the light; the higher the Kelvin number, the cooler (more blue) the light.
- 2700K - 3000K: Warm white (cozy, inviting; ideal for living rooms and bedrooms).
- 3500K - 4100K: Cool white (bright, vibrant; good for kitchens and workspaces).
- 5000K - 6500K: Daylight (crisp, invigorating; perfect for reading and detail work).
WHAT ARE LUMENS?
Lumens (lm) measure the total amount of visible light emitted by a light source. In simple terms, lumens tell you how bright a light bulb will be. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light.
- 100 - 300 lumens: Soft, ambient lighting (e.g., table lamps, accent lights).
- 400 - 700 lumens: General lighting (e.g., kitchen lights, bathroom lights).
- 800 - 1200 lumens: Task lighting (e.g., reading lamps, work lights).
WATTS TO LUMENS CONVERSION CHART
Different types of bulbs convert energy (watts) to light (lumens) differently. Use the chart below to understand how bright your light bulb will be, based on its wattage and type.
NEED HELP?
If you have any questions or need help choosing the right lighting, feel free to contact us. We're here to help you find the perfect light for your space!