Are you looking for the best lighting for an unfinished basement? Follow this article to find the 7 best basement lighting fixtures.
Unfinished basements always protrude challenging tasks. Whether you have exposed floors, paint leftovers, or bare walls, you can find unfinished businesses throughout your basement.
One such task is setting up a light fixture in your basement, which might seem straightforward, but requires more precision and thought process than you can imagine.
Since basements offer additional space for storage, workshop, or other jobs, you need to have an efficient lighting system to light up a dark basement area. Furthermore, basements can vary in size, and you will have to employ the best lighting setup without compromising the working space.
Thankfully, we have researched a lot and have created a list of seven of the best light fixtures that will enhance your unfinished basement. This article also includes a buyer’s guide, which will help you determine what you need to consider when adding lighting to an unfinished basement.
Unfinished Basement Lighting
1. Leviton 9726-C light bulb socket
Leviton is one of the pioneers in electrical devices, producing high-quality products for over 110 years. The Leviton 9726-C is a state-of-the-art incandescent lamp holder with durable glazed porcelain material.
The 9726-C features a convenient pull-chain system that allows you to control the plug without breaking a sweat. Additionally, the top-wire design lets you mount electrical wires with minimal fuss. Furthermore, you can mount this outlet box on any surface, making it ideal for basements.
Pros
- Pull-chain system for convenient operations
- The top-wire design allows effortless wiring configurations
- High-quality and durable glazed porcelain material
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- Using electric screwdrivers can cause damage to the outlet box
- Ceramic can break with accidental falls
Overall, the Leviton 9726-C is an excellent outlet mount for basement lighting and is undoubtedly worth considering. However, it would be best to seek a professional or call an electrician for installation.
2. Cable Matters 400047 (Pendant Light cord with socket – 15ft)
If you are looking for a versatile lighting option that you can install anywhere you want, the Cable Matters light socket with a cord is worth considering. The 400047 features a sturdy construction and is compatible with various bulbs, including the E26, E27, and other incandescent bulbs.
The 15ft flexible cord jacket comes with a convenient on/off switch, compatible with up to 375W. You can set up this lighting fixture anywhere, making it perfect as a hanging lantern, decorative shades, or basement lighting.
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- It comes with a convenient toggle switch
- Compatible with E26 and E27 screw bases
- It comes with all the essential accessories like wrappers and hooks
- It supports up to 375W
Cons
- Only for indoor usage
Overall, the 400047 is an excellent plug-in adapter for a light bulb socket that will elevate the look of your unfinished basement.
3. Mgfsujv LED Garage Lights 14000LM
LED lights are excellent for basements, and the Mgfsujv 14000LM light will suffice all your needs. This LED light features multiple configurations, and you set it up according to your requirements.
The Mgfsujv comes with five aluminum plates with adjustable rollers for enhanced lighting. Despite offering a better lighting solution than traditional lights, this LED light consumes less energy and has a prolonged lifespan of 50,000 hours.
Pros
- 14000 lumens
- Energy-efficient
- Durable aluminum construction
- Adjustable rollers for 360-degree adjustment
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- No motion sensing
Overall, this LED light from Mgfsujv will elevate your basement’s lighting, and the adjustable aluminum plates offer more configuration than traditional LEDs.
4. AntLux 4FT LED Wraparound light
The AntLux LED wraparound light features an easy-to-install setup as you can attach this light to your ceiling or wall with minimal fuss. This LED light comes with ETL certification and offers better durability and efficiency than traditional LED lighting systems.
One of the significant advantages of this LED light is its linkable system, as you can join them together to get the best results. The 4000K neutral white light is perfect for basements and garages, and 4400 lumens are ideal for any dark setup.
Pros
- Energy efficient
- The linkable points allow you to join up to 20 units
- High-quality construction
- Easy to install and use
- 50,000 hours of lifespan
Cons
- Not ideal for DIY projects
Overall, AntLux wraparound LED light offers more than traditional fluorescent light and will save up to 70% of energy without compromising performance.
5. Airand utility LED light
If you are looking for surface-mounted LED light that also comes with the convenience of a toggle switch, look no further than the Airand utility LED light. This LED light is easy to install and features premium materials for high efficacy and superior eye protection.
The plug-and-play design makes this LED light convenient and effortless, while the IP66 rating ensures that it can survive accidental spills. The Airand LED light also comes with linkable connections, allowing you to link multiple LEDs to cover more space.
Pros
- IP66 rating
- It comes with a toggle switch
- Energy efficient with a long lifespan
- Easy to install and use
- 5000K white temperature with 3600 lumens
- Eye protection design
Cons
- A longer power cord could have been better
Overall, the Airand LED light is one of the best lighting fixtures for unfinished basements that allow you to link up to ten LEDs with connectors.
6. Globe Electric 64413 Pendant light
If you want to add some classic elements to your basement’s interior, the Globe Electric pendant light is worth considering. This easy-to-install pendant light comes with a 15-foot power cord to set it anywhere you like.
The timeless design will elevate your basement’s interior with contemporary charm without compromising performance and functionality. The socket supports E26 bulbs, which can fit most bulbs with minimal fuss.
The dimmable option ensures that you will have the best light setting according to your needs. Additionally, the adjustable cord allows you to hang this LED from a vaulted or sloped ceiling.
Pros
- High-quality construction with a contemporary design
- Adjustable power cord
- Easy to install and use
- It supports E26 bulbs
- It comes with a dimmer switch
Cons
- The cord quality could have been better
7. Ascher 4-light LED
If you want to give your basement a modern design and appeal, the Ascher 4-light LED will suffice all your needs. The high-quality construction featuring corrosion-resistant material offers sufficient illumination for your basement.
You can adjust the lights according to your preference and illuminate specific areas with minimal effort. The 400LM output is adequate, and the durable mounting hardware makes it effortless while mounting on vaulted or sloped ceilings.
Furthermore, the GU10 bulbs included in the pack are energy efficient and reduce electricity bills without compromising performance and functionality.
Pros
- Adjustable lamp arm
- Energy efficient
- Easy to install and use
- Corrosion-resistant material
- You can mount the hardware on vaulted or sloped ceilings
Cons
- More lumens could have been better
Considerations when adding lighting to an unfinished basement
Existing electrical connections
An existing electrical connection is one of the most significant factors to consider when setting up a lighting system in your basement. You need to ensure that your basement has electrical connections at strategic places to get adequate lighting.
You will also have to determine whether you want a single unit or multiple small lights to cover your basement. In short, planning is vital and will help you get the best results.
Plug-in vs. hardwired lights
You may always be confused about going with plug-ins or hardwiring your basement.
For instance, plug-ins are easier to install, and you can set them up whenever and wherever you want. On the other hand, hardwired installation takes time and effort but will provide a clean look to your basement.
Since both techniques have their strengths and weaknesses, it would be best to chart a plan before installing them.
Height of ceilings
Ceiling height is crucial for lighting installation as it determines which type of light will suit your basement. For instance, people with low ceilings should avoid hanging lights. Their best bet would be surface-mounted lights like the AntLux 4FT LED Wraparound light, which is more convenient for low ceilings.
Watts or Lumens of light needed.
The amount of lumens and watts required depends on your basement’s size and light requirements. If you have a small space, using a corded light like the Globe Electric 64413 Pendant light will suffice your needs.
However, if you have a more extensive basement, the Mgfsujv LED Garage Lights 14000LM is undoubtedly worth considering.
Basement usage
Basements have different purposes as people use them as their work station, living space, or entertainment area. For instance, a basement with a bigger space can accommodate more people, so it would be no surprise if the owner employs it as an entertainment area.
Likewise, a larger space would require more lumens, so purchasing the Mgfsujv LED Garage Lights 14000LM is undoubtedly worth considering. However, you can also try a combination of surface-mounted and pendant lights to make your basement more artistic.
Location of existing windows
Windows play a crucial part in determining which areas in your basement require lighting. In short, it would be best to prioritize dark regions and select a suitable lighting system to get the best results.
Types of lights for unfinished basement
Light fixture with bulb
Light fixtures with bulbs can provide adequate lighting and help you eliminate dark areas. However, these systems prioritize providing excellent lighting instead of aesthetics, which may turn down some buyers.
In short, if your purpose is to get sufficient lighting in your basement, light fixtures with bulbs are worth considering.
Hanging light
Hanging or pendant lights offer lighting and aesthetics and are the best if you use your basement as a living space or entertainment area. These lights elevate your basement’s look and are suitable for decorations.
Spotlight
Spotlight or directed lights allow you to focus light on a specific area. These lights enable you to prioritize dark areas or help you highlight a particular location.
For instance, you can adjust the Mgfsujv LED Garage Lights 14000LM and turn each LED plate in a specific direction.
Track lighting
Track lighting fixtures like the Ascher 4-light LED come with multiple light heads, allowing you to focus the light to different angles. You can rotate the light heads horizontally and vertically according to your preferences.
Light fixtures to avoid in a basement
Long hanging lights
Basements often feature low ceilings, meaning you will have to ensure that you install the right lighting system to get the best results. Long hanging lights look artistic but will hinder functionality, especially with low ceilings.
Fluorescent tube lights
Fluorescent tube lights have become obsolete as LEDs are more efficient than fluorescent bulbs in the modern lighting era. Additionally, fluorescent bulbs can emit harmful gasses, which can be dangerous.
FAQ
Can I add an electrical connection for a new light fixture?
Although unfinished basements often require new electrical connections, you can add new ones if you have an existing electrical connection. However, it would be best to call an electrician to get the best results.
Can additional switches be added for new lights?
Yes, you can add additional switches for new lights. However, it would be best to seek professional help to avoid electrocution or injuries.
What about changing the switch that turns on/off a socket?
Although changing a socket’s switch can be tricky, you can rectify this problem by following the guidelines or employing a professional. Additionally, changing a switch is more straightforward in an unfinished basement as you can access all the cables.
Closing thoughts
Choosing the best lighting solution for an unfinished basement can be tricky. However, if you understand your requirements and consider the points mentioned above, you can pick the right lighting fixture.
Our list contains seven of the best lighting system for an unfinished basement. However, the Leviton 9726-C light bulb socket is our personal favorite as it offers more convenience and functionality.