Lighting Load Calculator
Calculate optimal lighting requirements for any space. Enter room dimensions, fixture specifications, and desired illumination levels (lux/foot-candles) for professional lighting design and electrical load planning.
Why Proper Lighting Design Matters
Visual Comfort
Proper illumination levels reduce eye strain, improve productivity, and enhance safety in all environments
Energy Efficiency
Calculate exact lighting needs to avoid over-lighting and reduce energy consumption and costs
Code Compliance
Meet IES and building code requirements for illumination levels in different space types
Lighting Measurement & Standards
Key Measurements
Typical Requirements
Lighting Load Calculator
Enter space details and lighting requirements to calculate optimal fixture layout
Efficiency: High (100 lumens/watt)
Residential Examples
Commercial Examples
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Common Lighting Requirements by Space
Industry-standard illumination levels for different applications. Use these guidelines for initial planning and compliance.
Residential Spaces
Commercial/Industrial
*Based on IES (Illuminating Engineering Society) recommendations. Actual requirements may vary by local codes and specific applications.
LED vs Traditional Lighting Efficiency
LED
Fluorescent (T8)
Halogen
Incandescent
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Understanding Lighting Design
Lumens vs Watts
Lumens measure the total amount of visible light emitted by a source, while watts measure electrical power consumption. Modern LED technology produces more lumens per watt, making it much more efficient than traditional incandescent or fluorescent lighting. When planning lighting, focus on lumens for brightness and watts for electrical load calculations.
Lux and Foot-Candles
Lux and foot-candles measure illuminance - the amount of light falling on a surface. While lumens tell you total light output, lux/foot-candles tell you how bright a surface will appear. This is crucial for task lighting, safety requirements, and creating comfortable visual environments. One foot-candle equals approximately 10.76 lux.
Lighting Layout Factors
Effective lighting design considers room reflectance, fixture height, light distribution patterns, and maintenance factors. Dark surfaces absorb more light, requiring higher wattage. Higher mounting heights spread light over larger areas but reduce intensity. Professional lighting design software accounts for these variables, but basic calculations provide good starting points.
Energy Codes and Efficiency
Modern energy codes limit lighting power density (LPD) measured in watts per square foot. ASHRAE 90.1 and IECC set maximum allowable values for different space types. LED technology makes it easier to meet these requirements while achieving proper illumination levels. Consider daylight harvesting and occupancy sensors for additional energy savings.
Professional Design Notice
This calculator provides basic lighting calculations for planning purposes. Actual lighting design should consider room reflectance, fixture photometrics, mounting height, and local codes. For critical applications, detailed photometric analysis and professional lighting design are recommended. Always follow electrical codes and safety practices.
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