LED Lights for Commercial Kitchens

What is LED Commercial Kitchen Lighting?

Commercial kitchen LED lighting uses specialized food-service fixtures designed for the demanding conditions of professional kitchens. With 15+ years in the industry, we have seen kitchens improve operations using robust fixtures that offer 120-277V universal input and reliable performance despite grease, temperature changes, and frequent cleaning. These sealed luminaires have IP65-rated housings to block moisture and contaminants, providing bright, shadow-free light essential for food safety compliance.

What are the Best LED Lighting Fixtures for a Commercial or Industrial kitchen?

Kitchen zones require different fixtures based on their function. We recommend LED NSF rated lighting for direct food contact areas. High-temperature zones near ovens and fryers need fixtures rated up to 392°F ambient operation (model dependent). Most kitchens use linear vapor-tight fixtures for general lighting and high-bay fixtures for ceilings above 12 feet. A detailed commercial kitchen light plan ensures proper coverage and avoids over-lighting. Our team often specifies high temperature LED lights for thermal challenges, including NSF-certified models for 131°F operation and industrial-grade fixtures for extreme conditions.

Are NSF Certified Fixtures Required for Commercial Kitchens?

Requirements vary by jurisdiction, but most health departments require NSF certification for fixtures above food prep surfaces, subject to local codes. Contact your local authority for specific rules. When NSF paperwork is needed for permits or inspections, we provide full certification with every qualifying fixture.

What are the Benefits of Using LED Lights in a Commercial Kitchen?

• Superior illumination quality - Professional LEDs remove shadows on cutting surfaces and deliver CRI ratings above 80 for accurate food color assessment.
• Dramatic energy reduction - Modern LEDs use 40-60 watts per fixture versus 100+ watts for similar fluorescent systems, reducing electricity costs by over half.
• Maintenance-free operation - Integrated LED arrays eliminate bulb changes and last 50,000+ hours in commercial use.
• Operational flexibility - Wattage-selectable drivers and CCT-tunable options allow field adjustment from 3000K-5000K without rewiring.

What are the Recommended Footcandles for a Commercial or Industrial Kitchen?

Safety and Performance Certifications

Our fixtures carry key certifications: DLC Premium for energy efficiency and rebate eligibility, UL Listed and ETL Listed for electrical safety, and NSF for sanitation and cleanability. Each certification covers its specific scope. DLC Premium ensures the highest efficiency standards and maximum rebate eligibility.

Warranty and Warranty Support

All our lights include at least a 5-year warranty, with USA-based support. Our experienced team will help resolve any warranty issues quickly to keep your lighting operational.

Need Help? Talk to an LED Lighting Expert.

With many fixture options available, choosing the right solution can be challenging. The sales engineers at LED Lighting Supply are experts in LED NSF and Vaporproof Lighting. Share your needs, and we will recommend the best LED High Bay lighting for your project. We can also provide a free lighting plan to ensure balanced, effective illumination.

LED Lights for Commercial Kitchens Frequently Asked Questions

What is LED Commercial Kitchen Lighting?

Commercial kitchen LED lighting consists of sealed fixtures with IP65-rated housings that prevent moisture and contaminants from penetrating critical components. These luminaires deliver 120-277V universal input and maintain consistent performance despite grease exposure, temperature fluctuations, and constant cleaning cycles.

What are the Best LED Lighting Fixtures for a Commercial or Industrial kitchen?

NSF rated lighting is used for direct food contact areas, while high-temperature zones near ovens and fryers require fixtures rated up to 392°F ambient operation (model dependent). Linear vapor-tight fixtures provide general illumination, and high-bay fixtures serve ceiling heights above 12 feet.

Are NSF Certified Fixtures Required for Commercial Kitchens?

Building codes vary significantly by jurisdiction, but most health departments require NSF certification for fixtures installed directly over food preparation surfaces, subject to local codes. Contact your local government authority for specific requirements in your area.

What are the Benefits of Using LED Lights in a Commercial Kitchen?

LED systems consume 40-60 watts per fixture compared to 100+ watts for equivalent fluorescent systems and last 50,000+ hours in continuous commercial use. Wattage-selectable drivers and CCT-tunable options allow field adjustment from 3000K-5000K without rewiring.

What are the Recommended Footcandles for a Commercial or Industrial Kitchen?

Food preparation areas require 50-70 fc, cooking and equipment areas require 50 fc, handwashing and cleaning areas require 30 fc, and storage areas require 10-30 fc.

What Safety and Performance Certifications Should Commercial Kitchen Fixtures Have?

Fixtures carry DLC Premium, UL Listed, and ETL Listed approvals for safety, performance, and energy efficiency. DLC Premium certification qualifies projects for utility rebates and tax incentives.

What Warranty Coverage is Available for Commercial Kitchen LED Fixtures?

All fixtures include at least a 5-year warranty with USA-based warranty support.