1. What is a Lighting per Square Foot Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the luminous flux density by dividing total lumens by the area in square feet.

Purpose: It helps lighting designers, architects, and homeowners achieve proper illumination levels for spaces.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• Lumens per sq ft — Illuminance (lm/ft²)
• Total Lumens — Total luminous flux (lm)
• Area — Space area in square feet (ft²)

Explanation: The formula calculates how light intensity is distributed across a given area.

3. Importance of Lighting Calculation

Details: Proper lighting calculations ensure adequate illumination for tasks, energy efficiency, and visual comfort.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total lumens from all light sources and the area to be illuminated. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a good lumens per sq ft value?
A: Typical recommendations: 10-20 lm/ft² for ambient lighting, 30-50 lm/ft² for task areas, 70+ lm/ft² for detailed work.

Q2: How do I find total lumens?
A: Multiply the number of fixtures by each fixture's lumen output (found on packaging or specifications).

Q3: Does this account for light loss?
A: No, consider multiplying by 1.2-1.5 for factors like fixture efficiency and light loss over time.

Q4: Can I use this for outdoor lighting?
A: Yes, but outdoor spaces often require lower values (5-15 lm/ft²) depending on purpose.

Q5: How does this relate to foot-candles?
A: 1 lm/ft² ≈ 0.0929 lux; for foot-candles, divide lumens by area in square feet (1 lm/ft² = 1 foot-candle).