Are you searching for garage lighting ideas that are easy to install? Well, you're in luck, as here at Yours, we've enlisted the help of our shopping experts to help you choose the best lighting for your garage.
According to a study from RAC Home Insurance, "Nearly half (4.6m) of Britain’s 10.6m* garages are no longer being used for what they were intended for, with almost two in five (39 per cent) of drivers saying their garages are so full of household items they can no longer fit their vehicle in."
If you're guilty of swapping your engine for, well, anything else, then we've got a top tip to make the most of your space - garage lighting.
What difference can garage lighting make?
Lighting is one of the most practical functions of a garage because it makes sure that you can see whatever is in your space clearly. Without it, you'd be bumping into your lawnmower, garden shredder, and any other tools you keep in this space.
Want to spring clean? Illuminating your stuff is of a huge benefit when it comes to having a sort out; a solid garage light will help you spot anything that's broken, as well as see items that could easily be donated.
That said, this isn't the only gain from installing the best garage lighting. If you're big into your DIY, you can transform this space into your workshop. As there isn't much natural light in a garage, you'll find that workshop lighting will allow you to work on any woodwork or repair projects into the night. Similarly, you might want to transform your space into a garage gym.
Best garage lighting ideas
Best LED batten tube light
If you're looking for traditional garage lighting that is bright and energy-efficient, then you can't go wrong with this linkable LED batten light. It boasts incredible benefits such as a moisture-proof unit, no flicker, and more.
Specifications:
Dimensions: 148 x 6.8 x 3.6 cm
Wattage: 45 watts
Bulb included: Yes
Average life: 30000 hours
Shade colour: White
What's included:
1 x 150cm Airand Slim IP66 Batten Light, 1 x mounting material, 6 x screws, 2 x fasteners, 1 x power cable, 1 x one cable to connect the two lamps together, and 1 x user manual
Pros:
• Can install in as little as five minutes
• Bright enough for medium-sized garage spaces
• Ability to attach more lights if required
Cons:
• Light can be quite harsh for light sensitive users
Review: "Super easy to fit and lights up the garage perfectly allowing me to work away into the darker evenings."
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Best stylish garage light
www.dunelm.com
These spotlights could work in any room of the house, but we think they'll look great in the garage. The industrial vibe will coordinate well alongside your stripped-back shelving units and work area.
Specifications:
Dimensions: 16 x 50 x 8cm
Wattage: 5.5 watts
Bulb Included: No
Average life: Not specified
Dimmable: Yes
Shade colour: N/A
What's included:
1 x ceiling fitting
Pros:
• They’re super stylish
• Good value for money
• Dimmable
Cons:
• No bulbs included
Review: "Good quality product - very easy to install and at a very reasonable price. Very happy with my purchase!"
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Best workshop ceiling light
There's no electrical work required with this ceiling light - simply plug it straight into a bayonet socket. The best thing about this garage light is the price, we can't believe it comes in under £15.
Specifications:
Dimensions: 35 x 35 x 18 cm
Wattage: 60 watts
Bulb Included: No
Average life: 50,000
Dimmable: No
Shade colour: White
What's included:
1 x foldable garage light
Pros:
• Brighter than smart bulbs
• Low energy consumption
• Instantly switches on
Cons:
Plastic feels slightly flimsy
Review: "This lamp is incredible. It turned my garage from dark and glum to a shiny haven."
Best portable garage light
Instead of investing in a fixed garage light, have you thought about opting for a movable one? This LED work light can provide a fluorescent glow in the garage, shed, or wherever else you might need it.
Specifications:
Dimensions: 25.2 x 21.8 x 7.8 cm
Wattage: 25 watts
Bulb Included: Yes
Average life: 50,000
Dimmable: No
Shade colour: Cold White
What's included:
1 x MEIHUA Led Work Light, and 5M power cord with UK plug and switch
Pros:
• It’s portable and easy to move around
• Water resistance and can be used outdoors
• Includes a two-year warranty
Cons:
• Light itself can get quite hot
Review: "Light up your life (well garage at least). Light to every part of my workshop. The very flexible stand allows any angle. The in-line switch is a real bonus."
Best strip light
www.diy.com
If you struggle to see in your garage because the single bayonet doesn't quite brighten up everything, then swapping to a strip light will work wonders for your space. This will allow more light into the room than ever before.
Specifications:
Dimensions: 156.5 cm bulb
Wattage: 116 watts
Bulb Included: 2 x 58 w
Average life: 50,000
Dimmable: No
Shade colour: White
What's included:
2x 58W bulb and fixing pack
Pros:
• Ability to link to other lights
• Works well in humid or dusty rooms
• Two-year guarantee
Cons:
• Can be troublesome to install for some users
Review: "I ordered this light for my shed, the 36w light gives off more than enough light. Simple to install, I am now going to get another one for my second shed."
Best long lifespan garage light
The average lifespan of this garage light is a whopping 30,000 hours - imagine how much organising, tinkering with the car, and how many home projects you could do in this time thanks to this amazing light. The possibilities are endless.
Specifications:
Dimensions: 25 x 75 x 600cm
Wattage: 40 watts
Bulb Included: Yes
Average life: 30,000
Dimmable: No
Shade colour: White
What's included:
1 x V-Tac 40W 4Ft Led Batten Fitting
Pros:
• Can be fitted to the wall or ceiling
• Easy to install
• Lots of different sizes available
Cons:
• Some users had issues with the included fixing clips
Review: "Just moved house and had a poorly lit garage of a 4 watt single LED bulb. I didn't want the hassle or cost of fitting fluorescent lights so thought I would give these 1.2m LED batten. I have to say they are very impressive for the cost. Excellent light distribution. Easy to fit (2 clips/2 screws).
"I did add an additional screw to my beams at the end of where the light sits as the battens did have a slight bend in the middle even though I did try moving the holding clips nearer the centre. Two screws soon sorted this but an addition of a stick-on rubber pad that attaches to the ends would avoid this modification. Not sure what to expect on the life expectancy but so far very happy.
"I used a total of 4 x 1.2m battens to cover a double garage. Well lit everywhere now and I can find all my tools no problem."
What is the best garage lighting?
Taking the number one spot for the best garage lighting has to be the Airand Linkable Led Batten Light. Although this is one of the more expensive options on our list, it's absolutely worth it.
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We love that you can fit this light to the wall or ceiling.
The only downside to this light fitting is that the cord is a little on the short side, but an extension cable will ensure that if you buy more than one, you can space them out. Amazing!
We're ready to start sorting out the garage now, are you?
Are LED garage lights safe?
Absolutely! They're efficient, they last for thousands of hours, and they don't get as hot as traditional incandescent bulbs.
How do I know what bulbs to use?
You should aim for around 50 lumens per square foot, having bulbs that exceed this recommendation may make lighting very harsh, whereas not meeting this requirement can make your garage look dark and can be dangerous.
How many garage lights do I need?
For the typical garage, we'd recommend 1-3 garage lights, but this is dependent on how much space you have.