1. What is a Warehouse Lighting Design Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the number of light fixtures needed to achieve proper illumination in a warehouse space.

Purpose: It helps facility managers, engineers, and designers determine optimal lighting for safety, productivity, and energy efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( FC \) — Required illumination level in foot-candles (typically 20-30 fc for warehouses)
• \( \text{Area} \) — Total floor area in square feet
• \( \text{Lumens per Light} \) — Light output of each fixture in lumens

Explanation: The total required lumens (FC × Area) is divided by the output of each light fixture to determine how many fixtures are needed.

3. Importance of Proper Warehouse Lighting

Details: Adequate lighting improves safety, reduces errors, enhances productivity, and can significantly impact energy costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the desired foot-candle level (default 25 fc), warehouse area in square feet, and lumens per light fixture (default 10,000 lm). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical FC requirement for warehouses?
A: Most warehouses require 20-30 foot-candles, with higher values (50-75 fc) for detailed work areas.

Q2: How do I find lumens per light fixture?
A: Check the manufacturer's specifications. LED high bays typically range from 10,000 to 40,000 lumens.

Q3: Does this account for light loss factors?
A: No, consider multiplying the result by 1.2-1.5 to account for dirt depreciation and light loss over time.

Q4: How do I calculate for different light mounting heights?
A: Higher mounting may require more fixtures. Consult an IES lighting handbook for precise calculations.

Q5: Should I round up the result?
A: Yes, the calculator automatically rounds up since you can't install a fraction of a light fixture.