Recessed Lighting Calculator
Calculate the optimal number, spacing, and layout of recessed lights for any room. Our calculator considers room size, ceiling height, and lighting requirements to create the perfect lighting design for your space.
Last updated: December 15, 2024
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Affects optimal spacing calculation
Lighting Layout
Total Lights: 3
Grid Layout: 4 × 3
Spacing: 4.0 ft
Total Wattage: 54W
Light Requirements
Required Lumens: 3,840
Per Light: 1400 lumens
Light Size: 6 inch
Per Light: 18W
Quick Example Result
For a typical 16' × 12' living room with 9-foot ceilings:
3
Recessed Lights
4 × 3
Grid Layout
4.0 ft
Spacing
54W
Total Power
How This Calculator Works
Our recessed lighting calculator uses industry-standard lighting design principles to determine the optimal number and placement of recessed lights. The calculation considers room dimensions, ceiling height, room type, and light specifications to create a balanced lighting layout.
The Calculation Method
Required Lumens = Room Area × Lumens per Sq FtNumber of Lights = Required Lumens ÷ Light OutputSpacing = Ceiling Height ÷ 2 (minimum 4 feet)This method ensures adequate illumination while maintaining proper spacing for even light distribution across the room.
Shows optimal grid spacing and wall distances
Room-Specific Lighting Requirements
Different rooms require different lighting levels based on their function and activities:
- Kitchen: 50 lumens/sq ft (task lighting)
- Bathroom: 40 lumens/sq ft (grooming tasks)
- Office: 30 lumens/sq ft (reading/work)
- Dining Room: 25 lumens/sq ft (ambient)
- Living Room: 20 lumens/sq ft (general)
- Garage: 20 lumens/sq ft (utility)
- Bedroom: 15 lumens/sq ft (relaxation)
- Hallway: 10 lumens/sq ft (navigation)
Recessed Light Sizing Guide
- 4-inch (800 lumens): Small spaces, accent lighting
- 5-inch (1100 lumens): Medium rooms, general lighting
- 6-inch (1400 lumens): Most popular, versatile for most rooms
- 8-inch (2000 lumens): Large rooms, high ceilings
Sources & References
- Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) - Lighting Design Standards and GuidelinesProfessional lighting design recommendations
- National Electrical Code (NEC) - Electrical Installation StandardsSafety and installation requirements for recessed lighting
- ENERGY STAR - LED Lighting Efficiency GuidelinesEnergy-efficient lighting standards and recommendations
Planning other room improvements? Check out our TV wall mount calculator and wainscoting calculator.
Get Custom Calculator for Your BusinessExample Calculation
Room Specifications:
- Room Size: 16' × 12' living room
- Ceiling Height: 9 feet
- Light Type: 6-inch LED (1400 lumens)
- Required: 20 lumens/sq ft
Calculation Steps:
- Room area: 16 × 12 = 192 sq ft
- Required lumens: 192 × 20 = 3,840 lumens
- Number of lights: 3,840 ÷ 1,400 = 3 lights (rounded up)
- Optimal spacing: 9 ÷ 2 = 4.5 feet
6
Total Lights
3 × 2
Grid Layout
5.3 ft
Spacing
108W
Total Wattage
Result: Install 6 recessed lights in a 3×2 grid with 5.3-foot spacing
This provides even illumination with 8,400 total lumens (44 lumens/sq ft).
Frequently Asked Questions
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