Can Light Kitchen

A well-lit kitchen is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. One popular lighting option for kitchens is recessed lighting, also known as can lights. These lights are installed into the ceiling, providing a clean and streamlined look. But can you use recessed lights in the kitchen? And if so, what type is best? Let’s explore these questions further.

What type of recessed lighting is best for kitchen?

When it comes to choosing recessed lighting for your kitchen, there are a few factors to consider. The type of recessed lighting that is best for your kitchen will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some options to consider:

1. LED recessed lights: LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a popular choice for kitchens. They provide bright and focused lighting, making it easier to see while cooking or working in the kitchen. LED lights are available in various color temperatures, allowing you to customize the ambiance of your kitchen.

2. Adjustable recessed lights: If you want the flexibility to change the direction of the light, adjustable recessed lights are a great option. These lights can be tilted or rotated to focus the light on specific areas, such as countertops or kitchen islands.

3. Dimmable recessed lights: Dimmable lights allow you to adjust the brightness of the lighting to suit your needs. This is particularly useful in the kitchen, where different tasks require different levels of lighting. Dimmable recessed lights give you the ability to create the perfect ambiance for cooking, dining, or entertaining.

4. Trim options: Recessed lights come with a variety of trim options, allowing you to customize the look of your kitchen. From sleek and modern to traditional and decorative, there are trim options to suit every style.

Ultimately, the best type of recessed lighting for your kitchen will depend on your personal preferences, the size and layout of your kitchen, and the specific lighting needs of the space.

Can you put recessed lights in the kitchen?

Yes, you can definitely put recessed lights in the kitchen. In fact, recessed lighting is a popular choice for kitchens due to its clean and unobtrusive design. Recessed lights can be installed in various areas of the kitchen, such as over the countertops, above the sink, or in the ceiling above the kitchen island. They provide focused and even lighting, making it easier to perform tasks in the kitchen.

Before installing recessed lights in your kitchen, it’s important to consider the electrical requirements and any potential obstacles, such as plumbing or HVAC systems. It’s always recommended to consult a professional electrician for proper installation and to ensure compliance with local building codes.

What is the difference between a can light and a recessed light?

The terms “can light” and “recessed light” are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference between the two.

A can light refers to the housing or fixture that holds the light bulb. It is a cylindrical or can-shaped housing that is installed into the ceiling. The can light is typically hidden from view, with only the trim and light bulb visible.

On the other hand, a recessed light refers to the overall concept of a light fixture that is installed into the ceiling, creating a flush and seamless look. This can include both can lights and other types of recessed lighting fixtures, such as square or rectangular-shaped fixtures.

In summary, can lights are a type of recessed lighting, but not all recessed lights are can lights. Can lights are a popular choice for kitchens due to their sleek and minimalist design. When choosing recessed lighting for your kitchen, consider factors such as LED lights, adjustable options, dimmable features, and trim styles to create the perfect lighting ambiance for your space.

How many canned lights in a kitchen?

The number of canned lights in a kitchen depends on several factors, including the size of the kitchen, the desired level of lighting, and the layout of the space. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have one recessed light for every 4 to 6 square feet of kitchen space. This means that for a typical kitchen measuring around 150 square feet, you would need approximately 25 to 37 canned lights.

How many recessed lights for 12×12 kitchen?

A 12×12 kitchen has an area of 144 square feet. Following the guideline of one recessed light for every 4 to 6 square feet, you would need approximately 24 to 36 recessed lights for a 12×12 kitchen.

Can you replace can lights with LED?

Yes, you can replace can lights with LED lights. LED lights are a popular choice for recessed lighting due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and versatility. LED retrofit kits are available that allow you to easily convert existing can lights to LED. These kits typically include an LED light bulb and a trim that fits into the existing can housing.

When should you not use recessed lighting?

While recessed lighting is a popular choice for many spaces, there are some situations where it may not be the best option. Here are a few scenarios where recessed lighting may not be suitable:

In rooms with low ceilings: Recessed lights require a certain amount of space above the ceiling for installation. If the ceiling height is too low, recessed lighting may not be feasible.
In rooms with insulation: If the ceiling is insulated, it can be more challenging to install recessed lights due to the need to maintain proper insulation and fire safety standards.
In rooms with decorative ceilings: If you have a ceiling with intricate designs or decorative elements, recessed lighting may not be the best choice as it can detract from the overall aesthetic.

How much does it cost to install can lights in a kitchen?

The cost to install can lights in a kitchen can vary depending on several factors, including the number of lights, the type of lights, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per light for installation. This cost includes the labor and materials needed for the installation, such as wiring, switches, and trim. Therefore, for a kitchen with 25 to 37 canned lights, the total cost could range from $2,500 to $7,400.

Where not to use recessed lighting?

While recessed lighting can be a great choice for many areas of the home, there are a few places where it may not be the best option. One such area is in bathrooms with low ceilings. Recessed lighting requires a certain amount of space above the ceiling to accommodate the fixture and allow for proper installation. In bathrooms with low ceilings, this space may not be available, making recessed lighting impractical.

Another area where recessed lighting may not be suitable is in rooms with decorative ceilings or intricate molding. Recessed lighting can detract from the architectural features of the room and may not provide the desired aesthetic effect. In these cases, alternative lighting options such as pendant lights or track lighting may be a better choice.

Which lighting is best for kitchen warm or cool?

The choice between warm or cool lighting for the kitchen depends on personal preference and the desired atmosphere. Warm lighting, typically in the range of 2700-3000 Kelvin, creates a cozy and inviting ambiance. It can make the kitchen feel more comfortable and welcoming, especially in the evening or when entertaining guests.

On the other hand, cool lighting, typically in the range of 4000-5000 Kelvin, provides a brighter and more energizing atmosphere. It can make the kitchen feel more vibrant and can be beneficial for tasks that require focused attention, such as cooking or food preparation.

Ultimately, the best lighting for the kitchen is a combination of both warm and cool lighting. This can be achieved by using different types of fixtures and bulbs strategically placed throughout the space. For example, warm lighting can be used for general ambient lighting, while cool lighting can be used for task lighting in specific areas such as above the countertops or stove.

What LED lights are best for kitchens?

LED lights are an excellent choice for kitchens due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and versatility. When selecting LED lights for the kitchen, there are a few factors to consider:

Color temperature: Choose LED lights with a color temperature that suits the desired ambiance of the kitchen. Warm white (2700-3000 Kelvin) or cool white (4000-5000 Kelvin) are popular choices.
Lumens: Consider the brightness level required for the kitchen. Higher lumens are ideal for task lighting, while lower lumens can create a softer, more ambient lighting effect.
Dimmability: If dimming capabilities are desired, ensure that the LED lights are compatible with dimmer switches.
Light distribution: Choose LED lights with a wide beam angle to ensure even lighting throughout the kitchen.

Overall, it is recommended to choose high-quality LED lights from reputable brands to ensure optimal performance and longevity in the kitchen.

What level of lighting is needed for a kitchen?

The level of lighting needed for a kitchen depends on the specific tasks performed in the space. The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) provides recommended lighting levels for different areas of the kitchen:

General lighting: 30-40 foot-candles (fc)
Countertop/task lighting: 50-70 fc
Stove/cooktop lighting: 70-80 fc
Sink lighting: 30-40 fc
Dining area lighting: 10-20 fc

These recommended lighting levels ensure sufficient illumination for various kitchen activities, such as food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and dining. It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual preferences may vary. Additionally, it is recommended to layer different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, to create a well-lit and visually appealing kitchen.

Should I use canless recessed lighting?

Canless recessed lighting, also known as wafer-thin or slim LED recessed lighting, is a popular alternative to traditional recessed lighting fixtures. It offers several advantages:

Easier installation: Canless recessed lighting does not require a recessed can or housing, making it easier and quicker to install. It can be directly mounted onto the ceiling surface.
Space-saving: The slim profile of canless recessed lighting allows for installation in spaces with limited ceiling depth, such as low ceilings or areas with obstructions.
Energy-efficient: Canless recessed lighting utilizes LED technology, which is highly energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Cost-effective: While the upfront cost of canless recessed lighting may be slightly higher than traditional recessed lighting, the savings in installation time and potential ceiling modifications can make it a cost-effective choice in certain situations.

However, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the space and consult with a lighting professional to determine if canless recessed lighting is the best option. Factors such as ceiling type, insulation, and desired lighting effect should be taken into account.

Summary

When it comes to lighting choices for the kitchen, there are several factors to consider. Recessed lighting may not be suitable for bathrooms with low ceilings or rooms with decorative ceilings. The choice between warm or cool lighting depends on personal preference and the desired atmosphere. LED lights are a popular choice for kitchens due to their energy efficiency and versatility. The recommended lighting levels for a kitchen vary depending on the specific tasks performed in different areas. Canless recessed lighting offers easier installation, space-saving benefits, and energy efficiency, making it a viable option for certain situations. Ultimately, it is important to consider the specific requirements and consult with a lighting professional to determine the best lighting solution for your kitchen.