Help with color temperature

10 years ago

Hello - I need to order LED recessed lights for my entire house - they go from 2700K-5000K - any ideas as to what I should choose? What do you out in your kitchen, basement, etc? I have calculated number of fixtures on the more generous end because the house (especially kitchen and basement) was so dark before remodel. My kitchen will be white cabinets with Carrera marble and I don't want to ruin it with the wrong lighting . Thanks!!

Featured Answer

Jennifer K

10 years ago

2700K is the same colour as a warm white incandescent bulb. I have 2700K LED pot lights over my island and 3000K LED pucks under my cabinets. I find the 3000K a little cool for my tastes. I love the 2700Ks.

But my husband really wanted 4000K lights. He finds the 2700K too yellow.

So really, the only way to know what you like is to test them out. I'd buy one of each temp that you're considering and test them in different places. You may find that for reading you like warmer lights and for overheads you like cooler lights.

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Comments (10)

Suzanne Paylor
Original Author
10 years ago
Jennifer K - thank you! The bedrooms and living area I will keep warm - it's the kitchen - that fine line between lots of light but not so much you feel like you are in an operating room!
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kathleen MK
10 years ago
go play with the display at Lowe's or Home Depot to see what they look like.
Suzanne Paylor
Original Author
10 years ago
Thank you kathleen MK - I will have to go see what they have on display. I hadn't thought of that!
PRO
User
10 years ago
go with the 2700! you will love the light it gives
Suzanne Paylor
Original Author
10 years ago
Will do - 2700 must be a standard - definitely don't want a feel that is too bright. Thank you!!! So happy we are through the four way inspection and can think about finishing :)
PRO
Ellsworth Design Build
10 years ago
2700-3000 is standard for residential. Remember LEDs don't get warmer as they dim like incandescents do, so you want them on the warm side.
Suzanne Paylor
Original Author
10 years ago
Thank you for this information! I was surprised they sell them for up to 5000K! That must be for other uses.
groveraxle
10 years ago
They go even higher than 5000K. I use 5000K in my painting studio to approximate daylight.
Suzanne Paylor
Original Author
10 years ago
@groveraxle - wow! I should consider more light for my daughter who loves to paint. Thanks!