The Ultimate Guide to the Kelvin Light Scale
The Kelvin light scale is used to gauge the temperature or colour of different bulbs. This guide includes all the information you need to know about the scale, and we’ve even included which bulb types are best for different areas of your home to ensure you choose the correct temperature for each area of your living space.
Table of Contents
- What are Kevlins in light bulbs?
- Why is light colour measured in Kevlins?
- How does the Kelvin scale work?
- What bulbs should I use in each room?
What are Kelvins in light bulbs?
Kelvins are used to measure the output of light, which can be gauged by the colour of the light emitted from a bulb. Although the term ‘light temperature’ is often used, Kelvins do not apply to the actual heat of bulbs, but simply their tone. The Kelvin scale comes from the British physicist William Thompson, who was elevated to the House of Lords in 1892, granting him the title Lord Kelvin.
Why is light colour measured in Kevlins?
As Kelvins are used to establish the colour of bulbs, it is most logical to use this scale to avoid confusion with heat. Whereas Celcius focuses on temperature and can fluctuate between negative and positive figures, the Kelvin scale begins at zero, unable to fall into minus numbers, and specifically explores volume and kinetic energy.
How does the Kelvin scale work?
Measuring a light bulb’s colour temperature is simple when you understand how the Kelvin scale works. A bulb containing more Kevlins will emit an extremely white colour, almost reflective of daylight. Lower Kelvin will give off a ‘warmer’ colour, such as yellow or orange.
Here is a breakdown of the Kelvin scale compared to the colour of light it will emit:
| Kelvins | Light Bulb Colour |
| 1500k | Candlelight |
| 2500k | Extra Warm White (Orange colour) |
| 2700k | Warm White (Yellow) |
| 3000k | Warm White (Light Yellow) |
| 3500k | White |
| 4000k | Cool White (Blue tint) |
| 6500k | Daylight (Blue) |
What bulbs should I use in each room?
As displayed in the image and table above, each room in your home should have bulbs with an appropriate temperature. If your living room had bulbs with 6500k, the overexposure would limit your comfort levels and cause squinting and potential headaches.
Kitchens that are dimly lit with 2500k would be dangerous when completing hazardous tasks such as chopping food or pouring boiling water.
You should aim to find the perfect balance between practical lighting while maintaining a warm and inviting ambience. Although your safety and visibility when completing tasks is a priority, there are lighting effects that can ensure this while still achieving an enticing, homely feel.
The best ways to light your home
| Room/Area | Kelvins | Effect |
| Living Room | 2000K – 3000K | A soft, white glow with a yellow tint commonly found in pendant lights and table lamps. |
| Bedroom | 2000K – 3000K | Table lamps, floor lamps and decorative lighting will help you achieve a warm, cosy atmosphere in your bedroom. |
| 3000K – 4000K | If your bedroom contains a dressing table or vanity, built-in lighting with 3000K – 4000K will make perfect task lights when you get ready. | |
| Kitchen | 3000K – 4000K | Bright, white lighting effects are best for completing tasks using recessed or under-cabinet lights. |
| 2000K – 3000K | Ambient lighting with lower Kelvins may be used when the kitchen is not in use. | |
| Bathroom | 2700K – 330K | 2700K to approximately 3300K provides warm white lighting to promote relaxation. |
| 3500K – 4000K | Best for completing tasks such as shaving or grooming, as more visibility is required. | |
| Garden | 4000K – 6000K | Cool white and daylight tones are used for illuminating your garden during the night or maximising the security of your home. |
| 2000K – 3000K | Lower Kevlins can be used for decorative purposes and to avoid over-exposure; however, the security of your home should remain a priority. |
When choosing your light bulbs, consider the size of your rooms. Larger rooms may require several lighting types to ensure appropriate visibility and illumination. It is important not to overwhelm smaller rooms with too much light or bulbs with a lower Kelvin content, as this can cause the area’s ambience to feel uncomfortable and negatively affect your vision. You should always prioritise energy-saving light bulbs to make your home sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Did you know?:
For those affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), lamps containing 5000K-6000K can be used during seasonal changes. Research shows that embedding cool daylight tones into your home during the darker months can help to raise your mood and support your mental health.
Select your favourite Light Bulbs from Dusk Lighting!
Dusk Lighting has a range of stunning light bulbs to illuminate every area of your home. Whether you prefer standard bulbs or want to incorporate a modern twist with our smart bulbs, you will find everything you need here.
Purchase your favourite light bulbs from Dusk Lighting today! We ship to EU & International countries, while UK Mainland orders are free when you spend over £59.
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