Commercial kitchen lighting plays a crucial role in creating a bright and practical workspace. When it comes to running a successful restaurant or food establishment, having the right lighting is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. In this blog post, we will explore the secrets of commercial kitchen lighting and how it can enhance productivity, safety, and efficiency in a culinary environment.
Proper lighting in a commercial kitchen is not just about illuminating the space; it also involves carefully considering factors such as color temperature, light intensity, and fixture placement. A well-designed lighting plan can improve visibility, reduce eye strain, and create a more inviting atmosphere for both staff and customers.
Whether you're a restaurant owner, chef, or kitchen designer, understanding the principles of effective commercial kitchen lighting is key to creating a space that is not only visually appealing but also conducive to the smooth operation of a professional kitchen. So, let's dive in and discover the bright and practical secrets and ideas of commercial kitchen lighting!
Tips for Restaurant Kitchen Lighting
Add More Natural Lighting
When it comes to installing new restaurant kitchen LED lighting, there are several factors to keep in mind. One of the most important considerations is the relationship between artificial light and natural lighting. While artificial lights will serve as the primary source of illumination in the kitchen, the presence of natural lighting can also have a significant impact on the overall ambiance and functionality of the space.
A kitchen window should comprise at least 10% of the total wall area to maximize the benefits of natural lighting. This will not only allow ample natural light to enter the kitchen but also provide a pleasant view of an open space or the sky, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
However, it is important to note that the positioning of skylights and windows should be carefully thought out to avoid any potential issues. Improperly positioned windows can lead to glare, which may cause discomfort and hinder the productivity of the kitchen staff. Therefore, it is crucial for the lighting designer to thoroughly consider the placement of windows and how the artificial and natural light will interact and impact the staff during their work. By doing so, the ideal balance between artificial and natural lighting can be achieved, creating a well-lit and comfortable environment for all.
Choose Shatterproof Fixtures
In commercial kitchens, the possibility of a light breaking and glass shards contaminating the food is quite high. This can result in the kitchen being temporarily shut down until all the broken pieces are completely removed. It is crucial to use shatterproof bulbs in order to prevent such incidents. The elevated temperatures near ovens and stoves in commercial kitchens can cause regular bulbs to break, posing a threat to both customers and employees. Shatterproof bulbs not only eliminate this hazard but also mitigate the risk of injuries from glass cuts or eye damage. Moreover, there is a wide range of shatterproof bulbs available, specifically designed to meet different requirements and fit various fixtures. Interestingly, these shatterproof bulbs are often priced similarly to standard bulbs, providing a cost-effective solution for kitchen lighting needs.
Use Warm Temperature Lighting
Another excellent tip for industrial kitchen lighting is to adjust the lighting in different areas based on color temperature. By implementing this strategy, you can optimize the lighting conditions for various tasks and enhance the overall ambiance of your kitchen.
For tasks that require focus and concentration, such as cooking or cutting, cooler temperature lights are highly beneficial. These lights provide a bright and crisp illumination that allows chefs and kitchen staff to work with precision and accuracy.
On the other hand, in the plating area, it is recommended to use warm temperature lights. The warm glow of these lights not only creates a visually pleasing environment but also assists employees in arranging the food in an aesthetically pleasing way for the customer. This attention to detail can greatly enhance the dining experience and leave a lasting impression on your patrons.
By carefully considering the color temperature of your lighting in different areas of the commercial kitchen, you can create a harmonious and functional space that enhances both the efficiency of your staff and the satisfaction of your customers.
Invest in Easy-to-Clean Lighting
In any kitchen, whether it's a home kitchen or a commercial kitchen, maintaining cleanliness is absolutely crucial. This is especially true in a commercial setting where hygiene standards need to be strictly adhered to. When it comes to choosing the right lighting options for a kitchen, it's important to consider not only the brightness and functionality of the lights but also their ease of cleaning and maintenance.
One of the best choices for kitchen lighting in terms of cleanliness and maintenance is recessed lighting. Recessed lighting fixtures are installed directly into the ceiling, which makes them much easier to clean compared to other types of fixtures. Unlike exposed fixtures that can gather dust, residue, and food stains, recessed lights are designed to be flush with the ceiling, minimizing the risk of accumulation.
With traditional 4 x 4 troffer-style recessed lighting, maintaining cleanliness is a breeze. All you need to do is simply wipe down the lens to restore its pristine condition. On the other hand, if you opt for surface-mounted or pendant-style fixtures, you'll have to put in more effort to keep them clean due to their exposed parts.
Don't Forget About Task Lighting
While general lighting is important in a commercial kitchen, task lighting is equally crucial. In fact, task lighting plays a vital role in enhancing the efficiency and safety of workers. Task lighting focuses on specific tasks performed by workers and requires either more light or light that is concentrated on a particular spot. For instance, when a staff member is chopping on a cutting board, it is essential to have a single focused light to ensure precision and safety. Additionally, task lighting can also help in reducing eye strain and fatigue, allowing employees to work comfortably for longer periods of time. Moreover, it is important to note that each station in the kitchen may require different lighting designs to illuminate the tasks performed by employees correctly. By carefully considering and implementing appropriate task lighting, a commercial kitchen can create an optimal working environment for its staff, promoting productivity and ensuring a safe working environment.
Don't Ignore Low Heat Emitting Lights
In a kitchen, which is already a hot and bustling working environment, it is crucial to take measures to minimize any additional heat production and unnecessary energy waste. By using traditional lighting fixtures, there is a risk of generating a considerable amount of heat as electricity gets converted into light. On the contrary, opting for modern technologies such as LED lights can greatly enhance efficiency in terms of heat generation. Besides consuming less energy, lights for commercial kitchens emit significantly less heat, which creates a more comfortable and energy-efficient working environment without compromising the quality of illumination they provide.
Commercial Kitchen LED Lighting Fixtures
Minimizing the ongoing expense of operating lights in a commercial kitchen is crucial for reducing overall operating costs. By using energy-efficient LED light fixtures and bulbs, businesses can save energy, protect the environment, and improve their bottom line.
Compared to traditional light bulbs, modern lighting is more efficient and consumes 75% less energy. Additionally, they waste less energy than radiant heat. Installing or upgrading to more efficient light bulbs and fixtures with controls to reduce energy usage is a sensible choice. Fortunately, there is a wide range of LED-based lighting products available, including downlights, accent lights, and recessed lights, offering businesses the opportunity to choose the right light for their specific needs.
Linear LED Lighting
Linear LED lighting is a great choice for creating an illuminating effect in a room. At LED Lighting, we offer high-quality linear LED lights that provide versatility and are designed to match your preferred style and design. Our priority is to deliver long-lasting and high-quality lighting solutions. You can explore our collection of linear LED lights here.
Round LED Lighting
Round LED panels are circular lighting fixtures that enhance the atmosphere of any room. With their distinct transparent appearance and stylish design, they are suitable for indoor illumination. LED Lights Direct offers round LED lights that are energy-saving, durable, and eco-friendly. These fixtures come in various sizes and are available in black-and-white designs, making them perfect for offices, restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, and more.