Basis of LUX and Lumens

The measurement for the light level encountered in a room or for an exterior space is
LUX. The measurement of the light output from a lamp is lumens. Although 1 lumen will
theoretically produce 1 LUX of light over an area of 1 square meter this is only in the
perfect world as there are other factors to consider. For instance the decor and coloring
in the space will undoubtedly result in some loss of light unless the room was had
perfectly reflecting mirrored walls.

The Calculation of LUX level in a room

The LUX level in a room is calculated from the following formula

E (LUX) = F (lm) x UF x MF / A

Where

E is the LUX level achieved

F is the average lumens value form the light source

UF is the utilization factor for the space which takes into account the coloring of the
surfaces in the space together with the geometry

MF is the maintenance factor for the lamp which allows for a level of light depreciation
over time.

It is clear to see from this formula that the light level experienced is reduced by the 2
factors which are the maintenance factor of the lamp and the utilization factor of the
space.

Clearly these values are situation dependent but typical values for these would be 0.4
for the utilization factor and 0.9 for the maintenance factor. This means that in a real
situation you would achieve typically 35% of the light level that could theoretically be
achieved in an optically perfect space.
What LUX levels are needed in a Room?

The level of LUX needed in a space is obviously subjective but here are some examples
to provide some indication of what is needed.

Areas for relaxation for instance lounge or TV rooms would typically have 120 LUX. For
an area which where it is necessary to read in it would be advisable to increase this to
200LUX. A domestic office environment of office for occasional use could be illuminated
to a level of 250 LUX. It would be advisable to illuminate a commercial office area to a
level of 400-500 LUX but where the majority of work is computer based a lower level is
acceptable. For a retail environment where people are purchasing goods then a level of
around 500 LUX is typically used. In a work shop area or area where detail work is
undertaken then a LUX level of between 500 and 700 is desirable. Within an operating
theatre in a hospital a LUX level or around 1000 would typically be used.

Calculation of how many lights are needed in a room?

Simply by turning the formula around it is possible to work out how many lights are
needed for a room. This is particularly useful when working out how many spot lights or
ceiling lights are needed in a space.

N = E x A / (F x UF x MF)

So be example for a large space which is 10 x 10m with 700 lumens ceiling lights ,
taking a maintenance factor of 0.9 and a utilization factor of 0.7 then 45 lights would be
needed to provide a LUX level of 200.

For a Kitchen which is 5 x 3 meter and using down lighters which produce 430 lumens
output then for 180LUX you would need 10 down lighters taking the same factors as
before.