Shop lights

In my 40 X 54 I originally used two rows of 3 double bulb fixtures each. Later added two fixtures crossways and will eventually add two more. Have two of those fixtures over the bench, one in the office, a four foot over the welding bench and another over the lathe. Also some task lighting.

I got the T8 fixtures at Home Depot for about $43 each (about four years ago). Don't confuse these fixtures with the slightly more expensive commercial T12 fixtures also carried by HD. The T8 fixtures are supposed to be more efficient than the T12 units.

Although the T8 fixtures work well in cold temperatures, I haved them backed up by four 150 watt halogen lights. When it gets cold, I use the halogens until the the flourescents have a chance to warm up.

I went with the T8 bulbs in a 4 bulb surface mount fixture using 5000 kelvin bulbs. I think I have 24 fixtures in my 40 x 50 shop with a 12 foot ceiling and it is really bright. If you have a local lighting company, they have software that will give you all the specs and layout.

I was lucky and found my fixtures used, got them for less than half of new, just had to pay more for bulbs, but they are rated for 10,000 hours.

My walls and ceiling are white and a light gray floor so that helps also.

Randy

• My Shop

Randy