Closet Lights
Closet lights can be an easy-to-do weekend DIY project. There are a few things you need to consider first though, and little did I think about it until I really started to research, was the amount of safety issues in choosing your lighting.
Look at your closet and the layout. Take measurements from the ceiling to the top of your highest shelf, and the distance from the center of where you want the light fixture to hang to the shelf area. Keep in mind you do not want the light behind you, rather you want it between you and the clothing or items in the closet. This reduces the shadow effects.
Fire safety is very important when considering the types of lights you are going to install and the light’s distances from your clothing or possessions. Some basic rules are as follows:
12 in. from surface-mounted LED fixtures and incandescent with entirely enclosed light origins;
6 in. from surface-mounted fluorescent fixtures installed on the wall above the door or on the ceiling;
6 in. from recessed LED fixtures or incandescent with a completely enclosed bulb/lamp installed in the ceiling or wall;
6 in. from recessed fluorescent fixtures installed in the ceiling or wall.
Just as important, choosing how to power the light. You can wire it (or have an electrician install for you), or it can be battery-powered. One option is a low-voltage cabinet light, another is a motion-activated cabinet fixture. The motion-activated light is hassle-free and an easy solution that will enable you to save some energy. It will turn off moments after you have closed your door; forgetting a light on unattended will hardly happen. LED closet lights, run on electric, run cool and are a preferred option for closets. If you forget to turn it off, it isn’t as likely to start fires.
If you have a light fixture installed in your closet, but is run on an incandescent bulb, consider switching it out with a fluorescent light which also burns cooler. This is a good idea for small closets versus larger ones as it doesn’t burn quite as bright.
For cubbies or built-in shelving that simply needs a little light, think about the under cabinet lighting used with the touch of a hand or a small switch on a magnetic wand light. These are very easy to install, reasonably priced, and handy for the smaller spaces you need to look into.
Remember, safe distances, cooler burning bulbs, and safe wiring practices if you decide to go that route. Check out your local home improvement stores for lighting solutions, and talk with a professional if you are unfamiliar with electrical wiring.
