3 Tips for Using LED Light Panels in Small Retail Spaces
If you own a small retail store, you know that lighting is crucial. Inadequate lighting can make small spaces feel dark and gloomy, while overly bright lighting can make these areas bright and uncomfortable. Both situations can lead to customers spending less time in your store and unnecessary employee fatigue.
On the other hand, choosing the correct lighting can help customers find what they need while making your store appear warm and inviting. Even better, good lighting choices can save you money and make your business more environmentally friendly. If you're new to the world of LED light panels, these three tips will help you choose the best lights for your store.
1. LED Panels Are a No-Brainer for Drop Ceilings
If your store currently uses fluorescent lighting panels installed in a drop ceiling, then switching to LED light panels is a no-brainer decision. While other lighting choices may require more decision-making, this replacement is guaranteed to save you money. LED lights can be up to 75 percent more efficient than alternatives, with long lifespans offering even more cost savings.
However, one concern is the cost of retrofitting LEDs into existing spaces. Fortunately, LED panels are a drop-in replacement for the commercial fluorescent lighting common in drop ceilings. If your store uses these fixtures, installing a new LED panel light should be no more difficult than replacing an existing fluorescent fixture, making it an upgrade that can save you money immediately.
2. Color Temperature Matters
When working with fluorescent lighting, you often don't have much choice for color temperature or brightness. This limitation can mean that stores lit by fluorescent lights all have a similar appearance and may even feel clinical or sterile. With LED panel lighting, you're free to select lights with a wider range of temperatures, helping you to achieve the right feel for your store.
There's no "correct" option when selecting a color temperature, but it's important to remember that lower color temperatures typically feel warmer while higher temperatures produce cooler and brighter lighting. Consider using lower-temperature lighting if you run a store that relies on a cozier or homey feel or cooler, brighter lighting if you need to highlight specific areas or products.
3. Consider Ceiling Height
Ceiling height is a major factor when choosing panels for any space, and it's particularly important for small retail stores. If your store has relatively low ceilings, you will likely need different lighting solutions from a store with much higher ceilings. Failing to consider this factor can create lighting that's too dim or much too harsh.
If you aren't working with a designer to select lighting for your store, discuss your particular space and requirements with your lighting supplier. Many experienced LED lighting suppliers can help you choose the right panels for your space, ensuring you choose the appropriate lights for your ceiling height and the size of your store.
Reach out to an LED light panel service to learn more.