Hi everyone,

I'm getting ready to wire my basement and was wondering if someone can give me advice on the number of lights I need? The basement in question is rather small, 22'x13', with two glass block windows. I'm wondering how many recessed lights I should go with. My initial plan was to do four 6" cans (two on each end of the room), while also implementing a couple of track light fixtures (4 lights per) on the outside edge. FYI - I have an existing light fixture (not recessed) that will be going right above the door way.

Is this enough light for the size of the room? I also have plenty of outlets in case I need to add a floor/table lamp of some kind.

Thanks for your help!

 

It sounds like more then enough, In my rec room that I just wired I put in 4 pot lights and it gives more then enough light.
I think my room is about the same size.

With the track lighting for special lighting I think you will have a good set up.

I also put in 3 walls sones (2 on one side 1 on the other due to the wall layout) and have them on a dimmer. This will be used like movie lighting so that you can see but its still nice and dark for watching movies.

 

Sure looks like you have enough lights there. But that is why I like to stay with a T bar ceiling in the basement. So I can move lights and wires around up there when need be. ED

 

Finished my basement around 3 years ago, nearly the same size. I went with a ceiling fixture on the stair landing & just at the bottem of the stairs on one switch. Then 6 can lights spaced around the parimeter, which I focused against the walls on another switch. Finally I used two 4-light floresents in the middle on another switch.

Lots of light if you want it (the kids use the florescents) minimal and indirect light for movies and just a general better atmosphere (for me). I would not recommend putting everything on the same switch (in the larger picture of things switches & wire are cheap), however you can put them on the same circuit breaker depending upon what else is on it. Also be sure to have 3way switches for all lights with one being at the top of the stairs. It will save you a lot of trips down the stairs to turn off lights. I also wired lights for my shop area (which is seperated by a wall & door) and wired 1 wall sconce in the finished section to this switch. That way I could see from the top of the stairs if my shop lights were left on.

I just sold that house, the buyers wife thought the bright lights were wonderful for sewing & crafts. Husband thought it was too bright, but both liked the seperate switches & the ability to turn off from the top.

Hope this helps.