How to choose the right garage lighting – 5 things to consider

Garage lighting is often an underestimated part of home functionality and safety. Whether you use your garage as a workshop, storage space, or parking space, the right lighting is crucial for both comfort and functionality. Here are five important factors to consider when planning your garage lighting:

1. Consider the purpose of the garage

The first step is to think about how you actually use your garage:

• Storage and parking: Here, general lighting in the form of ceiling-mounted LED fixtures is often sufficient.

• Workshop or hobby room: This requires both good general lighting and supplementary task lighting with higher brightness and focus.

• Exhibition garage: Here, accent lighting or LED strips can be used to create atmosphere and highlight details.

2. Choose LED for energy efficiency and longevity

LED lighting has basically taken over the garage and industrial lighting market – and for good reason. The benefits include:

• Low energy consumption

• Long lifespan (up to 50,000 hours)

• Low heat generation

• Good color rendering and brightness

Avoid old fluorescent fixtures if you are building new or renovating – LED is better in every way.

3. The right brightness and color temperature

Brightness is measured in lumens, and in a garage you should aim for at least 300 lumens per square meter for general lighting. For work areas you may need up to 800 lumens per square meter.

Regarding color temperature:

• 5000K–6000K (neutral to cool white light) is ideal for work environments – it provides a clear, crisp light without being dazzling.

• Avoid warm white light (2700K–3000K), as it can cause details to disappear into shadows.

4. Location and distribution

Lighting should be placed evenly across the ceiling to minimize shadows. It is also a good idea to supplement with wall-mounted fixtures, especially near workbenches and storage areas.

Tip: Use lighting with a wide beam angle (over 100°) on the ceiling, and spot lighting (30–60°) for work surfaces.

5. Consider durability and IP rating

A garage can be exposed to dust, moisture, cold and heat. Choose fixtures with the right protection class (IP class):

• IP44 or higher is recommended for surfaces that may be exposed to moisture or dust.

• If you have an unheated garage, check that the lighting works in low temperatures.

Summary
Well-thought-out garage lighting makes your space both safer and more useful. Go for LED, adjust the brightness according to the area of use and choose durable fixtures that can handle the garage environment. Then you have a functional and stylish solution that will last for many years.

If you have any questions regarding garage lighting, please feel free to contact us at IVON. We will help you create your dream garage in no time. Email us at info@ivon.se and we will help you.

Good luck with the lighting!