Replacing fluorescent light fixture how to get same amt of light

[BigDGeek]

Originally Posted by golfgal

I would look into LED lights. They throw off a lot of light without getting warm. We have 3 2 bulb box lights in our kitchen and I do love the amount of light they throw off but they are ugly. At least they tried to make ours look ok by adding some decorative trim. .

I already have some non-LED light fixtures in mind, thanks. I just need to know how many of them I need to put in to replace the fluorescent light.

[BigJon3475]

LightingFacts.com : The Lighting Facts Label

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Solid-State Lighting: Technical Information Network

[kitty61]

Originally Posted by BigDGeek

I have an ugly 4-tube fluorescent light box in my kitchen; I want to replace it but I also want the same amount of light with the new fixture(s). I want to replace it with one or more short pendant or flush mount fixtures and I will be using CFL bulbs in the new fixtures.

Is there any website that can convert the amount of light generated by different light fixtures or anyone who can give me some advice? It may sound stupid but I don't want my kitchen to be dark. I just want that ugly light fixture gone.

Google "Lumens"

[JonahWicky]

Originally Posted by BigDGeek

I already have some non-LED light fixtures in mind, thanks. I just need to know how many of them I need to put in to replace the fluorescent light.

You can use LED bulbs in most standard fixtures. They're initially more expensive, but the light output is very good, they come on instantly, there's very little heat, and they will save you money in the long run. Plus, you won't have to change bulbs for a LONG time.

[silibran]

Originally Posted by K'ledgeBldr

You're wanting a "lumens" comparison-

Try this:

LED light bulbs: Comparison charts - Eartheasy.com Solutions for Sustainable Living (there's a chart about halfway down the page)

Though I understand every one's conservatism, a kitchen is not the place to scrimp. Nor is it the place for "fancy-schamcy" hanging fixtures (of any kind). Lighting should be for function- and as practical as possible; i.e., keeping it clean- I hate any kind of dust bunny farm in a kitchen (thoses FL boxes are notorious for being bug/fly catchers).

I always recommend recessed fixtures for general lighting- and there's really no substitute for halogen. But you can use CFL's, LED's, and incandescents.

As jimbo mentioned- undercabinet lights are a definite, especially for prep areas. I recommend strip xenon lights (thoses lowvolt/line volt pucks are crap-don't even bother). Fluorescents are okay for the power saver, but if you want a "true natural light" go with the xenon.

All of this.