1. Invest in Shatterproof Lamps

You can instantly improve your industrial kitchen lighting by choosing the right bulbs. A commercial kitchen should have shatterproof bulbs for several reasons. The high temperatures over areas such as stoves and ovens can cause lesser bulbs to shatter, which results in severe problems like glass in the food. Shattering bulbs can also cut your employees or get glass in their eyes.

The bottom line is that all these dangerous and painful experiences can be avoided by simply installing shatterproof bulbs. These bulbs are available in several specifications to fit the needs of most fixtures and locations and are often no more expensive than non-shatterproof bulbs.

commercial kitchen lighting

2. Use Warm Temperatures for Plating Areas

Another excellent tip for industrial kitchen lighting is to light areas by color temperature. You will want a cooler temperature where cutting and cooking tasks are performed because a cooler temperature can help aid your staff's concentration and focus. On the other hand, the plating area would benefit from a warmer temperature range, which is more pleasing to the eye and can help the employee plating the food arrange it in a visually appealing way.

With a 2700K-3000K range, you get a nice, warm tone that pleases the eye. Another tactic is to create consistency by matching the color temperature of the plating area to what the guest experiences when receiving the plated food.

3. Select Easy-to-Clean Solutions

In any kitchen, but especially a commercial one, cleanliness is imperative. Choosing options that are easy to maintain and clean is essential. The best choice here is to go with recessed lighting. Any lighting fixture placed directly into the ceiling will always be easier to clean than fixtures left out in the open to accumulate dust, residue, and food stains. With traditional 2 x 4 troffer-style lighting, you can simply wipe down the lens to make it look clean again. A surface-mounted or pendant-style fixture needs more cleaning since more of it is exposed.

4. Don't Ignore Task Lighting

While having general lighting in the form of recessed troffers is a smart move, task lighting is another vital consideration. Task lighting is lighting aimed at performing smaller tasks requiring more light or a light spread that is more focused in scope. For instance, the cutting board requires more focused lighting because it is a specific area requiring precision. For task lighting, you can incorporate a few focused spotlight-style light fixtures to adequately illuminate the table or workstation.

Industrial kitchen lighting

5. Choose Low Heat Emitting Options

There is no denying that any commercial kitchen gets pretty hot. The last thing you need is a lighting solution that emits high heat levels. Typically, a fixture produces some heat in the process of converting energy to illumination, but there are efficient solutions that produce mostly illumination and very little heat.

6. Opt for LED Lighting

LED lighting is often an excellent idea for commercial kitchens because it's cost-effective and hassle-free. With LEDs, you get:

  • A high-quality, bright light source that ensures optimal visibility for all tasks
  • Less heat generation, which keeps the area cooler
  • Significant energy savings
  • Reduced maintenance costs, as there are no bulbs or ballasts to replace

Commercial Kitchen Lighting Requirements

A well-lit kitchen ensures that chefs and staff can see clearly, decreasing the risk of accidents with sharp knives and hot surfaces. But it's not just about safety — good lighting also boosts productivity by making prepping, cooking, and cleaning easier. When choosing industrial kitchen lighting, consider these requirements:

Different Lighting for Different Areas

In a commercial kitchen, different areas have different lighting needs. For example, the primary cooking and prep areas need bright, focused lighting to make every detail visible. On the other hand, general or ambient lighting helps illuminate the entire kitchen, providing a balanced light that reduces shadows and glare.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is another vital requirement. Commercial kitchens often operate for long hours, so energy-efficient lighting can drastically reduce electricity costs. Timers that turn lights off at night can also help keep your energy costs in check.

Durability and Maintenance

Choosing durable, low-maintenance industrial kitchen lighting is also essential. Lighting options that require fewer bulb replacements and less cleaning will reduce your overall costs.

Commercial kitchen lighting must be bright, efficient, and strategically placed to ensure a safe and productive working environment. By focusing on these requirements, you can create a kitchen that meets health and safety standards and helps your staff deliver their best work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Industrial Kitchen Lighting

As a trusted supplier in the $15.9 billion global commercial lighting market, Warehouse Lighting has a wealth of knowledge to share about industrial kitchen lighting. Read the following questions for the answers you need.

What Type of Lighting Is Best for a Commercial Kitchen?

Recessed lighting and drop ceiling lights are some of the best options for commercial kitchens. These choices provide the necessary lighting level while still being easy to clean.

What Level of Lighting Is Needed for a Commercial Kitchen?

You need an average of 50 lumens per square foot to adequately light most commercial kitchen spaces.

Why Is Proper Lighting Essential in an Industrial Kitchen?

Proper lighting in an industrial kitchen is crucial for safety, efficiency, and productivity. It ensures that staff can see clearly while preparing and cooking food, reducing the risk of accidents with sharp tools and hot surfaces. Good lighting also helps maintain high cleanliness standards and enhances the overall working environment.

Light Up Your Industrial Kitchen With Options From Warehouse Lighting

Now that we've reviewed some commercial kitchen lighting ideas, you're ready for the next step. Warehouse Lighting offers an outstanding selection of industrial kitchen lighting. You can find all types of commercial lighting for restaurants in our extensive inventory. Our products provide the necessary level of illumination while offering exceptional advantages in terms of durability and ease of cleaning. Browse our collection now to find the right commercial lighting solution for your kitchen.

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