Lux to Watt Calculator
Convert lux to watts with step-by-step calculations. Perfect for energy calculations, lighting design, and power consumption analysis.
Illuminance to Power Converter
Common Lux to Watt Conversions
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Understanding Lux to Watt Conversion
Converting lux to watts requires understanding both the inverse square law and luminous efficacy. This conversion is essential for determining power consumption needed to achieve specific illuminance levels.
Conversion Formula
Step 1: lumens = lux × distance² (m²)
Step 2: watts = lumens ÷ efficacy (lm/W)
Where:
• watts = electrical power consumed
• lux = illuminance (light per unit area)
• distance = distance from source (meters)
• efficacy = luminous efficacy (lm/W)
Key Concepts
- Lux (lx): Illuminance - the amount of light falling on a surface per unit area
- Watts (W): Electrical power consumed by the light source
- Distance Factor: Light spreads over larger areas as distance increases
- Luminous Efficacy: How efficiently electricity is converted to visible light
Power Requirements for Common Illuminance Levels
| Illuminance | Application | LED Power (2m) | CFL Power (2m) | Incandescent (2m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 lux | Ambient lighting | 2W | 3.3W | 16.7W |
| 200 lux | General lighting | 8W | 13.3W | 66.7W |
| 300 lux | Office work | 12W | 20W | 100W |
| 500 lux | Task lighting | 20W | 33.3W | 166.7W |
| 750 lux | Detailed work | 30W | 50W | 250W |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert lux to watts?
First calculate lumens from lux and distance: lumens = lux × distance². Then divide by luminous efficacy: watts = lumens ÷ efficacy. Both steps are needed for accurate conversion.
Why do you need luminous efficacy for lux to watt conversion?
Luminous efficacy shows how efficiently a light source converts electricity to light. Different technologies (LED, CFL, incandescent) have different efficiencies, affecting power consumption.
What information is needed for lux to watt conversion?
You need illuminance (lux), distance from the light source (meters), and the luminous efficacy of the specific light source technology (lm/W).