When you shop for your lighting project, the different options can be overwhelming. Here we spotlight Kelvin to explain what it is and how to choose the best lighting.
What is Kelvin?
Kelvin is a measurement used to calculate the color temperature of white light. While the light itself always remains white, the appearance will look either more warm, or more cool. One thing to note is that "warmer" light does not mean the bulb itself gives off more heat, rather just the appearance is warmer.
When metal is heated, the metal begins to emit light, and the light changes as the metal gets hotter. When the metal starts to be heated, it is reddish in appearance, then turns orange, yellow, and white. As it gets hotter, it turns bluish and becomes different shades of blue.
In similar fashion, lighting with a lower Kelvin will be warmer in color, and a higher Kelvin will appear more blue.
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Kelvin Measurement Scale
Kelvin is measured on a scale from 1,000 to 10,000. A lightbulb with 2,000-3,000K gives off a reddish orange glow, and 5,000-6,500K emits a cooler blue light. Indoor residential lighting will use warmer lights at 2700-3600K, while commercial settings and offices use 5,000K or higher. The cooler the lighting, the higher the contrast, and "blue" light makes it easier to focus on tasks.
Sunlight changes throughout the day, and sunlight is also measured in Kelvins. The morning orange glow of sunrise is about 3000-4000 Kelvins, while during daylight hours when the sky is more blue the sun is around 5000-6500 Kelvins. Full daylight with clear blue skies is 10,000 Kelvins.
What does this mean for choosing lighting?
Choosing the right Kelvin for your lighting projects all depends on the location and the purpose of the light. Is the lighting being used indoors, for a living space? You'll want to use a warmer light at 2700-3600 Kelvins. If installing lighting in office settings, opt for a cooler Kelvin more conducive to working, at 3500-4100K. And for commercial settings like warehouses and parking garages where seeing small details is important, go for a higher Kelvin around 5000-5800K.
| Color Temperature (Kelvin) | 2700K | 3000K | 5000K |
| Light Appearance | Warm White | Neutral White | Cool White |
| Ambiance | Warm and Cozy | Standard Indoor Lighting | Cool and Energizing |
| Location | Living rooms, Homes | Offices | Warehouses, Parking Garages |
| Best For | Lamps | Overhead lighting | Bright Security Lighting |
Read more about GreenLeafLED lighting.
Conclusion
When you shop for lighting, check the Kelvins to determine how warm or cool a bulb will be. The higher the Kelvins, the cooler the light, the lower the Kelvins, the warmer the light. Warmer light is best used for mood lighting and when a relaxed atmosphere is desired, while cooler blue light is favored in working environments and offices to keep employees alert.
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