You’ve probably noticed that many Warehouse Lighting fixtures feature 3-way switches that let you choose between “3500K,” “4000K,” and “5000K.” Many people know that those numbers refer to the “color temperature” of the light fixture and that most interior lighting will fall in this color temperature range. But what is color temperature, and which temperature setting is appropriate for a warehouse application?

To get started, here’s a quick list of important things to understand:
• Color temperature refers to the color of the light source
• Color temperature is measured in Kelvins (K)
• When referring to color temperature, people often use the abbreviation CCT, which stands for “correlated color temperature.”
• “Warm” colors have a yellowish hue
• “Cool” colors have a bluish hue
• “Warm” colors have a lower CCT number
• “Cool” colors have a higher CCT number

So, thinking back to the 3-way switch in the first paragraph, it gives you the ability to choose between a warmer color (3500K), a cooler color (5000K), and a neutral one that occupies a middle ground between the two (4000K). Considering that the Kelvin scale goes from 1000K (a dark amber light) all the way up to 10000K (a darkish blue light), all three of these selections sit toward the middle of the color temperature spectrum. So, a good way to think about it is that 4000K is a neutral white color while 3500K and 5000K lean slightly toward the warm/yellow and cool/blue ends of the color spectrum.

3500K  

is typically suitable for residential applications, restaurants, and hotels. This is because the soothing, golden color of the light is very pleasing to the eye. In filmmaking and photography, this color temperature is associated with the “golden hour” when the sun meets the horizon and the lighting is optimal for taking pictures. It has a relaxing quality and can even make people feel sleepy. For this reason, 3500K is generally a poor choice for a work environment.

4000K

is generally an optimum choice for offices and retail environments. The neutral, “bright white” color doesn’t favor warm or cool, instead occupying a middle ground. It enhances alertness and productivity without being harsh and uninviting.

5000K

is typically the right choice for warehouse lights, manufacturing spaces, and other industrial applications. Occupying a spot on the Kelvin scale that’s still in the “bright white” territory but beginning to enter the blue zone, it offers crisp illumination and clear visibility. That makes it suitable for precision tasks and spaces where safety is paramount.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. The best LED lights for warehouses are in the 5000K color temperature range. That’s why many of our high bay lights come preset to 5000K. If you’re shopping for commercial light fixtures, the lighting pros at Warehouse Lighting have the knowledge and experience to walk you through the process and help you select the perfect lighting solution for your unique needs. Give us a call at 888-454-4480 or visit our Contact Us page.