LED shop lights changed my workshop. Better visibility, lower bills. Here’s how to set it up.
Why LED
Fluorescent flickers give me headaches. LED doesn’t flicker. Also uses less power and lasts longer.
Better color rendering. See wood colors accurately. Important for finishing work.
How Much Light
50 lumens per square foot is the general target. 400 square foot shop needs 20,000 lumens total. More is better for detail work.
Sounds like a lot. A decent 4-foot LED fixture is 4000-5000 lumens. Four or five fixtures for medium shop.
Layout
Even distribution matters more than raw brightness. Dark spots cause shadows. Shadows cause mistakes.
Lights over work areas. Not directly over table saw – glare is bad. Slightly to the side or behind where you stand.
Task Lighting
Overhead for general. Swing arm lamps for bench work. Under-cabinet strips where needed.
Multiple light sources eliminate shadows better than one bright one.
Color Temperature
5000K is daylight equivalent. Good for seeing work accurately. Some prefer warmer 4000K. Avoid 6500K – too harsh.
Installation
Link fixtures together. Reduces wiring. Most have daisy-chain capability.
Pull chains on each fixture. Or one switch for all. Depends on preference.
Budget
LED fixtures are cheap now. $30-50 each for decent quality. Full shop lighting under $200 usually.
