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What Does LED Color Temperature Mean?
Ranging from warm yellow to blue-white tones, LED color temperature refers to the appearance of light given by an LED bulb. It’s measured in Kelvin, a scientific unit of measurement for thermodynamics (in physics and engineering). For example:- Lower Kelvin LED lights (2700K-3000K) produce warmer light that can reproduce the look of traditional incandescent light bulbs.
- Higher Kelvin LED lights (4500K-6500K) produce intense, cooler light that can reproduce the brightness of daylight.
How Does LED Color Temperature Affect a Space?
When choosing lighting options, it’s important to remember that your lighting solutions will have a massive impact on your mood and the functionality of the space.
While some spaces – like laboratories and certain types of warehouses – might require it, blazingly bright spaces can hurt your eyes and make you feel pretty uncomfortable.
Lower Kelvin levels are better for home areas and smaller spots (like staircases and hallways). If you want people to tackle projects yet feel comfortable for long periods of time, we recommend sticking between 2700K-3000K.
Cool light is better suited for a garage workshop, office space, or warehouse. It’s scientifically proven that 4600K and above can improve focus and productivity.
How Do I Choose the Right Color Temperature for My Space?
Before you choose any LED lighting, investigate what color works best with the space and its intended purpose. If you suffer from migraines, it’s better to choose something warmer. If you work on technical machinery, a bluer light is best. Chickens might grow better under cool light. Furthermore, dairy cows respond better to lights that mimic natural daylight (4000-4500K).
Whatever the case, you must consider the desired ambiance and ensure comfort in living and work spaces. Once you understand the effects of warm and cool lighting – and take existing décor into consideration – you’ll be able to make an informed decision that functions perfectly in your spaces.
|
Color |
Kelvin |
Appearance |
Uses |
|
Warm white |
2700-3000K |
Warm, yellow-orange |
Residential settings to create a cozy atmosphere |
|
Soft white |
3000-3500K |
Cooler, more neutral white |
Residential settings & spaces where warmer atmosphere is desired (without intense brightness) |
|
Bright white |
3500-4500K |
Bright, pure white |
Commercial & office settings. Dairy operations. |
|
Daylight |
4500-5500K |
Bright, blue-white |
Task-oriented spaces like kitchens, workshops, warehouses, barns, garages |
|
Cool white |
5500-6500K |
Cool, intense blue-white |
Industrial settings, sterile atmosphere |
What’s the Best Color Temperature?
However, we’ve found that 5000K is the “sweet spot” for LED lighting color. Not too harsh or yellow, 5000K is an excellent balance between warm and cool lighting. From offices to classrooms, we think this is the best choice for a wide range of applications and settings.
Need Assistance? We’re Here to Help
If you need any advice about selecting the right color temperature for your space, our experts are available to discuss your lighting needs. From foot candles to color temperatures to light fixtures, we’ve got decades of experience that we’re happy to share!