Having adequate lighting is essential for any kitchen. The right bulbs can make cooking and cleaning tasks easier while also creating a warm, inviting ambiance. Longer light bulbs are a great option for delivering maximum brightness to open, expansive kitchens. Read on for a complete guide to choosing and installing long bulbs that will illuminate your kitchen beautifully.
Choosing the Right Long Bulbs
When selecting long bulbs for your kitchen, there are a few key factors to consider: the bulb type, length, shape, brightness level, and color temperature. Taking the time to evaluate these variables will ensure you end up with the perfect long bulbs for your unique space and lighting needs.
Bulb Types
The two main options for long kitchen light bulbs are incandescent and LED:
- Incandescent bulbs are the traditional bulb type, producing light through a thin wire filament that heats up when electrical current passes through. They emit a warm, yellowish light. However, incandescent bulbs are not very energy efficient.
- LED bulbs are the newer technology, utilizing semiconductors that become illuminated when activated. LEDs last much longer than incandescents and use a fraction of the energy. LED bulbs also come in a wide range of color temperatures.
For kitchens, LED is generally the best option. The extreme longevity (up to 50,000 hours) and efficiency make them ideal. Their availability in different Kelvin temperatures gives you flexibility in the shade of light.
Bulb Length
Typical household light bulbs are only a few inches long, while long bulbs can range anywhere from 4 inches up to 4 feet! Consider the height of your kitchen ceiling and the type of light fixtures when determining appropriate bulb length.
For 8 foot ceilings, 6-8 inch bulbs work well in most flush and semi-flush mounts. Go with 10-12 inch bulbs for pendant lights. Vaulted or cathedral ceilings over 10 feet tall pair nicely with dramatic 20-24 inch long pendents.
Measure the existing fixtures in your kitchen to find a long bulb that will fit properly. Make sure to note the socket location – some fixtures may only accommodate rear-positioned bulbs. Check that any glass or housing has enough clearance for longer bulbs.
Bulb Shape
Standard long neck bulbs come in several common shapes that affect light spread:
- A-Shape: Most generic bulb style with all-around illumination
- Tubular: Directed task lighting
- B, BA, C, F, G: Bulbous globe styles that cast ambient lighting
Match the shape to your fixture. For example, tubular works best in linear pendants, while globe varieties suit chandeliers. Consult manufacturer guidelines for shape compatibility.
Lumens – Brightness
Lumens indicate how bright a light bulb is. For kitchens, here are some lumen recommendations:
- Ambient ceiling fixtures: 2500-4000 lumens
- Task lighting over counters: under/over cabinet at 2000-3500 lumens
- Island pendants: 6000+ lumens
Note that more lumens means more energy used. Focus brightness in key areas only. Layer lower lumen decorative bulbs for supplemental lighting.
Kelvin Color Temperature
The Kelvin scale measures light color from warm to cool:
- Warm White: 2700-3000K with yellow/orange tones, perfect for a cozy ambiance
- Soft White: 3000-3500K maintains warmth while increasing brightness
- Bright White: 3500-4100K gives off crisp, neutral white illumination
- Daylight: 5000K+ emits a cooler blue-hued light supportive for tasks
In the kitchen, pair warm white over any relaxed dining area and cool daylight near food prep surfaces. Mixing color temps is common – just be sure to use dimmers or smart bulbs to control separate fixture groups.
Recommended Fixtures for Long Bulbs
Once you select the perfect long bulbs, it’s time to determine the ideal fixtures for your kitchen layout and lighting goals:
Pendant Lights
Pendant lights suspended from the ceiling make excellent fixtures for long bulbs. Position single pendants over islands, sinks, or tables. Use linear or multi-pendant configurations over general areas:
- Island pendants should hang 30-34 inches above the counter
- Bar pendant height varies based on use – lower for seated areas
- Staggered multi-pendant levels create visual interest
Mini pendant lights with long bulbs also make great task or accent lighting. Where needed, adjust drop lengths to align illumination with key work zones.
Flush Mount Ceiling Lights
Long bulbs work nicely in standard flush mount and semi-flush ceiling lights. These fixtures sit nearly flush with the ceiling:
- Semi-flush mounts extend down just a few inches
- Look for long neck bulb compatibility or retrofit kits
- Perfect for bright overhead ambient lighting
Aim for central placement or consider a hallway application to cast light into the kitchen. Group multiple flush mounts together for expansive spaces.
Track Lighting
Track fixtures provide highly flexible placement of lights, perfect for targeting specific kitchen task areas:
- install tracks on the ceiling or high on walls
- adjustable spotlights with MR/PAR long bulbs
- alternate bulb colors and beam angles
Use track lighting to zero in on countertops, sinks, stoves, and more. Rotate and tilt spots to fine-tune direction.
Chandeliers
For dramatic style, install a statement chandelier with long cascade bulbs or exposed filament bulbs. Popular options include:
- Sputnik – sparse wire globes with exposed bulbs
- Orb chandeliers – round frosted glass globes
- Drum fixtures – cylindrical drum shades
Position the chandelier as a stunning focal point over an island or dining table. Allow at least 30 inches clearance from the bottom to the counter or tabletop.
Tips for Choosing and Installing
Here are some additional pointers to keep in mind when picking out and installing long kitchen light bulbs:
- Match bulb style to your existing kitchen decor – modern, traditional, etc.
- Evaluate electrical needs – hardwire or plug-in installation?
- Ensure dimmer switches and smart lighting works
- Test clearance carefully before permanently mounting fixtures
Long neck bulbs can bump into glass coverings if the proportions are off. Check that flowing bulb shapes like globes do not come in contact with any fontal shades or housing.
Hardwired lights will provide the most seamless professional installation. But plug-in pendant kits offer flexibility down the road. Just make sure the cord length reaches outlets without crazy looping.
Smart bulbs and LEDs work best on dimmers for full light level control. Test everything first before committing to a permanent fixture placement.
Transforming Your Kitchen with Long Bulbs
The impact of proper long bulb kitchen lighting is transformative. Here are some ideas and inspirations for your space:
Before and After
Take a look at these stunning kitchen lighting makeovers. The long pendant bulbs and new fixtures take these rooms from dull and dated to fresh and illuminated:
[Before and after photos showing impact of long kitchen light bulbs]
Create a Bright, Spacious Ambiance
Long bulbs help open up kitchen spaces and make them feel more expansive. Tips include:
- Use bright daylight bulbs over counters and tasks
- Add ambient warmth with soft white in surrounding areas
- Elevate ceilings with long dangling pendants
- Accentuate backsplashes and textures with directional lighting
Design Inspiration
Check out these stunning kitchen designs embracing long light bulbs:
[Photos depicting chic kitchen interiors with: sputnik chandeliers, linear LEDs, industrial pendants, modern flush mounts]
Get creative with shapes, styles, and placements tailored exactly for your kitchen’s needs and preferences.
Installing the right long light bulbs can make a huge difference in your kitchen’s lighting, look, and functionality. From LED tube lights to dramatic dangly pendants, the options are endless. Use this guide to pick the perfect shape, size, brightness, and color temperature bulbs. Pair them with fixtures strategically placed to illuminate both overall ambient light and specific task areas.
With improved visibility and a welcoming glow, you’re sure to enjoy meal prep, cooking, baking and conversation in your new lit-up kitchen. For customized recommendations, consult with knowledgeable electrical and lighting professionals.
