We want to replace our old 3' flourescent light in the kitchen? any suggestions.
-
3po3 on May 21, 2012Something like this should cover basically the same "footprint" on your ceiling, and takes CFL bulbs, so it shouldn't increase your electric bills (which would be a concern if you replace with incandescent bulbs or halogen): http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-100626354/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053Helpful Reply
-
-
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com on May 21, 2012As Steve said, fluorescent lights wash light throughout the room, in this case your kitchen. Installing anything else then that will require you to choose a fixture or fixtures that you like. Then knowing that the type of light fixture you choose should provide you with information on how the light will focus on a set area at a set height. Meaning a can light installed in an eight foot ceiling area may only provide a six foot circle of illumination on the floor with a particular type of bulb. Knowing this you can figure out how many lights you would want to illuminate your kitchen. With surface mounted lights they to will provide a pattern of illumination but on a wider area then recessed lamps would, but again depending upon the bulbs, wattage and fixture type this area of illumination will vary greatly from one fixture to another. My suggestion would be to go to a specialty lamp store. Provide them with the layout of the area in which you desire to light up. Give them ceiling height as well. They can help you choose not only a light style that you will be happy with, but one that is energy star rated as well. If anything you will learn a lot about lighting from these professionals and at least give you some options that you may not even thought about. Once you choose your fixtures and lay out. I would suggest that you have these professionally installed. Proper wiring is a must with light fixtures particularly with higher end fixtures. Special dimmers are required with some types of lamps and lots of other goodies you would not even know about until the lamp did not light correctly or burnt out to soon.Helpful Reply
-
-
HandyANDY - Handyman & All Repairs, LLC on May 21, 2012As always, Woodbridge pretty much hit it all. Most kitchens aren't lit very well. The lighting pattern comes down to the user so think about where and how you work in the kitchen and plan appropriate lighting with what you know about yourself. I would consider a multi-head track light...they are reasonable priced and homeowner friendly to install....cutting in can lights and wiring them should always be left to a professional. If there is a Progressive Lighting in your market...they'd be a good source to see alot of different options. Lowes & Depot will have some basic options and that's mostly what I use on my flips....Helpful Reply
-
-
Gennie A on May 21, 2012My hubby is going to install so we were looking at tracking lighting (4 or 5 bulbs @ 50 watts each). Using CFL bulbs - would that be at least almost as bright as my current fluorescent ?Helpful Reply
-
-
3po3 on May 21, 2012Yes, 4 or 5 CFL bulbs in track lighting should be comparable in terms of brightness.Helpful Reply
-
-
Gennie A on May 22, 2012thanks for all the posts. I appreciate your input.Helpful Reply
-
Related Discussions
Any suggestions on how to update this old box light in our kitchen?
Painted wood: yay or nay?
Let's dive into the age-old debate: painting wood. Some homeowners swear by the transformative power of a fresh coat of paint on wood surfaces and furniture, while ot... See more
How to paint grout?
How do I paint grout to change the color? The grout is in great shape, but the color - meh.
Stray Cats Overtaking My Yard, Garden and Areas Around My House.
My neighbor has a million cats. This draws other cats to the area. My yard is full of cat poop, my gardens and plants are disgusting with the cat spray. What can I do... See more
How can I paint an indoor futon to be suitable for outdoor use?
need to know step by step
How to whitewash a brick fireplace?
What is the best method to whitewash bricks surrounding a fireplace?