How to Prepare a Kitchen Lighting Plan
A successful kitchen lighting plan is one that includes a balance of general and task lighting. Planning kitchen lighting requires that you look at your needs, current electrical system and how you use the space. You can handle the planning work yourself, but if you're unsure, consult an electrician to see if your plan is feasible for the space. Electrical work presents many dangers both during the installation and after the fact if the wiring isn't correct. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Set your lighting budget for the kitchen. Determine how you will pay for the lighting updates and how much money you can afford to spend. Keep the budget in mind as you plan the lighting. Leave room in the budget for labor, if you plan to hire an electrician.
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Determine if the current kitchen lighting circuit can handle more light fixtures. Add the wattage for current lights and other electrical items on the circuit. Determine the capacity of the circuit by multiplying the amps by the volts (120 volts for most circuits). For a 20 amp circuit, you would multiply 20 times 120 for 2,400 total watts. Subtract the total current wattage from the maximum to determine how much space is left. Only load a circuit to about 80 percent of its full capacity for safety reasons; in this example, stick to 1,920 watts being used.
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Assess the age of the current wiring and light switches. If you have an older home and the electrical system hasn't been updated, it's a good idea to have the room rewired. This job is best left to an electrician, if you don't have electrical experience. Consult with an electrician to determine if the wiring should be replaced and to get a quote for the project.
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Assess your current kitchen lighting. Note what you like about it and what needs improvement. Consider the areas that are dark or shadowy. Focus on brightening those areas as you prepare your lighting plan for the kitchen.
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Consider the type of overhead kitchen light fixtures you want. One large fixture is a common option. Another popular choice for kitchens is recessed lighting. The type of light you choose dictates the placement of and the number of fixtures you need.
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Determine if you want a single light fixture to replace the current one or if you want to move it to a different location.
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Determine placement of recessed lighting, if it is needed. A general rule of thumb is to place recessed lights every 4 to 6 feet. The size of the recessed lighting fixtures is also a factor. Place smaller fixtures closer together for the best lighting.
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Identify areas in the kitchen that need task lighting. Islands usually have a lighting fixture placed directly above. Lights over the stove and sink are also popular. Decide on the type of lighting fixtures for each of these areas. Common task lighting fixtures include track lighting, pendant lights and under-cabinet lighting. These types of light fixtures direct light onto the working surfaces.
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Decide whether to place lighting under the top cabinets to provide additional task lighting for the countertop work areas.
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Assess the new lighting scheme once it is installed. Check it at night and during the day. Decide if the light plan works or if additional lighting is needed.
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Tips & Warnings
Never attempt electrical work if you don't know what you're doing. You run the risk of serious injury or incorrect wiring, which may lead to a fire.
