How to select and place shop Fluorescent lighting

[LCHIEN]

Another Shopnotes article:

http://www.shopnotes.com/files/issues/sample/sample-46-47.pdf

For me, I have Fluorescents hung from 8' rafters on short chains, so they're about 7' high.
Workbenches are about 3' high.
So By their suggestions, I have A=4' bench to fixture distance.
So B= 1/3 of A ~=1.3 feet or 16 inches from the wall.
and C=1.5 x A, or about 6' spacing or less to the next parallel lamp.
And they should be end to end down the length of the shop.

I only have 5 2x4' fixtures lighting my 2-car garage shop although they are over the main work areas.

I guess I don't have enough lamps...
Sounds like I should have at least four rows x 4 lamps long.
I do have individual task spot lighting over my router table, drill presses, and band saw. I guess that's something.

[woodturner]

For me, I have Fluorescents hung from 8' rafters on short chains, so they're about 7' high.

I've been thinking about using CFLs and those single lamp porcelain type fixtures. The fixtures could be mounted to a box on the side of the joists, getting them out of the way and somewhat protected. The joists and floor(ceiling of the basement) could be painted white to increase the reflected light.

Since CFLs are essentially free in manyareas as a result of utility subsidies, it seems like a more cost efficient approach than the shop lights. The shop light fixtures are inexpensive, but the tubes are kind of pricey.

Haven't tried it yet, and the concern would be light output and longevity, since the lamps would be on their sides.

[cabinetman]

A pretty good article. With a search, there are many threads that cover lighting in the shop. I will say that cool white lamps works best for me as to color. I prefer 8' fixtures, and their placement over the table saw slightly behind the blade. If directly above the blade, slight shadows can exist if working right at the saw front, or leaning over the table.

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[chopnhack]

Good, but rudimentary article. No discussions on lumens/ft, full spectrum daylight bulbs, etc. The full spec. are expensive, but considering how long fluorescents last, its a good investment. At the very least install them above your proposed finishing area.

[LCHIEN]

Good, but rudimentary article. No discussions on lumens/ft, full spectrum daylight bulbs, etc. The full spec. are expensive, but considering how long fluorescents last, its a good investment. At the very least install them above your proposed finishing area.

you're right, that would have been a good addition.

[cabinetman]

Good, but rudimentary article. No discussions on lumens/ft, full spectrum daylight bulbs, etc. The full spec. are expensive, but considering how long fluorescents last, its a good investment. At the very least install them above your proposed finishing area.

+1. Fluorescents do last a long time and IMO are very cost effective. I've tried CFL's and was very disappointed. They don't compare with fluorescent, and even if free, I wouldn't use them. Having the best light is more important to me than the cost.

As for the finishing area, I like fluorescents above the work, and on the surrounding walls. The more light the better.

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[chopnhack]

As for the finishing area, I like fluorescents above the work, and on the surrounding walls. The more light the better.

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Agreed, raking light is awesome!