9 Ideas To Replace The Fluorescent Lights In Your Kitchen [With Pictures]

Although fluorescent lights do the job of lighting up a room, they're hardly an attractive option. They wash out your room and give off a clinical feeling that makes a space less cozy. Fluorescent lights also give some people a headache because of how bright and uncontrolled they can be. 

Fortunately, there are other alternatives to fluorescent lights that you can use. These lighting ideas make a space feel cozier, and more welcoming and give the room a natural glow that's not visually overwhelming.

Of course, you also need to consider how each type of lighting will complement the general aesthetic of your kitchen space. Industrial-looking kitchens can be softened with warm lighting, while rustic-themed spaces can effortlessly glow with ambient lighting.

Not only are these alternatives more aesthetically pleasing; but they also save energy and can let you work better without having to endure headaches.

You can light up all parts of the room, set up mood lighting, and adjust according to your preferred brightness level. 

We have gathered 9 ideas to replace fluorescent lights in the kitchen so you can cook and use your space more comfortably. Keep reading below to learn more.

1. LED Lights

LED lights are now a go-to option for many homeowners since they have a longer lifespan. They are also more energy-efficient compared to other types of lighting.

You can install LED lights anywhere in the kitchen, and they will give off a warm glow while making sure don't consume too much energy.

2. LED Tube Lighting

Instead of using Tube fluorescent lights, you can maximize the light using LED tubes. They are a safer alternative since they were not manufactured with chemicals. LED tube lights complement industrial-themed or modern kitchens, and they satisfy practicality and function over aesthetics. 

3. Track Lighting

Track lighting is an excellent option if you want to light up all corners of the kitchen while remaining energy-efficient. This is done by hanging the light fixture on the ceiling and other areas in the kitchen to help you see things better even under low light. 

Make sure you angle the lights correctly so you'll be illuminating spaces where you work most. 

4. Undercabinet Lighting

Undercabinet lighting is a highly preferred kitchen lighting option. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing and complement most modern kitchen spaces, but they also help save energy since you won't have to turn on all the lights if you're just going to get some water in the middle of the night. 

5. Halogen Lights

Halogen lights are a traditional lighting choice, and they are more inviting than fluorescent lights because of their warmer glow.

They can effortlessly make a space more charming, instead of stale and clinical as is often the case with fluorescent lights.

This is a good choice if you want lights that is easy to install and doesn't require you to do too much work in terms of decorating and arranging lights. 

6.  Recessed Lights

Recessed lighting is one of the best design solutions you can incorporate into your kitchen lighting. You get more opportunities to light up even the smallest corners in your kitchen, making it easier to clean. 

Recessed lights are hidden, so they are subtle fixtures. However, the way they light up the room speaks for itself. 

Make sure to get wall-wash lighting to maximize the light in your kitchen, and to have it installed by a professional for the best results. 

7. Incandescent Bulbs

If you intend to have a dimmer switch for your kitchen lights, get incandescent bulbs as they are more efficient. Compared to halogen and fluorescent, incandescent bulbs have a cozier and warmer glow. They are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and available in many designs. 

8. Flat LED Ceiling Light

If you want subtle lighting fixtures that complement minimalist kitchen spaces, go for flat LED ceiling lights. However, make sure you incorporate a warmer light or at least an adjustable one to avoid your kitchen looking too stale and flat. 

LED ceiling lights can be installed by themselves, or as part of a recessed lighting system. 

9. Ceramic Metal Halide

This light fixture is equipped with technology that gives it a more balanced color spectrum. The colors are also more stable, which is provided by its natural CRI or Color Rendering Index. 

The Color Rendering Index refers to how the eyes translate the subtle variations of colors that the light gives. A higher CRI makes objects look sharper. 

Kitchen Lighting Design Inspiration

Now that you're familiar with ideal alternatives to fluorescent lights, let's explore how you can make these lights work in your kitchen interior. There are many ways you can make your kitchen look elegant using lights, and we have gathered inspiration for you.

Use Stylish Light Fixtures

If you want your lights to be visible, the best thing you can do is to place them in stylish and eye-catching fixtures. Make sure you get ones that complement your style and match the interior.

 

Use A Dimmer Switch

Using a dimmer switch is not only energy-efficient, but it also gives you more control over how much light you want in the kitchen. This is ideal if you want options for mood lighting like for quiet and intimate dinners, as the kitchen is near your dining area. 

Incorporate Artificial Candles

Artificial candles are a great way to make your kitchen space look either charming or gothic--it depends on your preference!

You can put these artificial candles in intricate or minimalist candle holders that you can hang above your counter. This can be a great accent. if you're thinking of having a focal point.

Use Accent Lighting

If you don't want an accessory as an accent, but instead want an area of your kitchen to be accentuated, get accent lighting. Accent lighting works when you angle the lights on your focal point, typically downward. 

Get Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting gives your kitchen space an elegant look. This type of lighting complements all kitchen spaces because it replicates natural lighting, and is easily adjustable.

This is also ideal if you're thinking of having mood lighting as it evens out the distribution of light throughout the space.

You can create a mood or ambient lighting with a combination of ceiling lights, recessed lights, and wall mounts. 

Install Wall Sconces

Wall sconces are mounted on the wall, so you can use them to wash the walls with a warm glow. You can also use them as an extra source of light if you need them in the evenings.

Conversely, you can also use them as an alternative light source if you're only going to be in the kitchen for a short time and don't want to turn on the bright lights.

Decorate With Pendant Lights

Pendant lights make for a great accent, and they don't have to take up too much space or dangle too low. Pendant lights can instantly transform a space to make it look chic, and it complements almost all types of interiors. 

Most pendant lights have a sleek design, so they are easy to pair with other kitchen fixtures. They are hung from above, so make sure to have an experienced professional install them to avoid accidents.

Take Advantage of Natural Light

The safest and most effective option for the lighting is to simply open the kitchen up to let more light in. However, this is only possible if your kitchen has a big window. If you don't have a huge window, you will need to have other lighting options. 

You will also need to consider gloomy days when the sun isn't showing. Having at least recessed lighting is a great way to replicate natural light.

When Should You Use Fluorescent Lights?

You can use fluorescent lights if the only thing you're after is practicality. However, fluorescent lights contain mercury, which is a harmful chemical. They are also not dimmable, which doesn't give you a lot of lighting options.

Fluorescent lights can be energy-efficient. These lights are purely functional, however, and won't do anything to elevate your interior. 

Final Thoughts

Having a wider set of alternatives to fluorescent lights can give you the opportunity to be more creative when designing your kitchen interior. Lights do a lot more than illuminate a room; they also contribute to the atmosphere and mood of the space in which they're placed.

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