Types of Task Lighting

• The best task lights are adjustable, offering flexibility to accommodate the task at hand. Aside from the traditional table lamp, other types of task lighting include recessed lights, track lighting systems, pendants and puck lights. Each of these types provides focused lighting, which varies in quality depending on the type of bulb used. Incandescents are the most common, but they waste a lot of energy and create heat, which can be an issue if you are sitting near your task light. Other options include CFLs and LEDs, which have a much longer life but cost more up front. Be sure the type of bulb you choose isn't too high wattage, which can result in high contrast between your work area and the rest of the room.
  
  

Office Task Lighting

• By using a task light in your home office or at your professional workplace, you can reduce overall lighting needs and prevent straining your eyes. A task light with an adjustable arm is ideal for this application, so you can swing it to one side when you are typing at the computer, and then swing it the other way when you need to consult a book or document. Portable task lights are a good choice in offices where employees shift around often. For your home office, you may affix your lamp to the side of your desk or the wall.
  
  

Kitchen Task Lighting

• With all the precise tasks you complete in the kitchen---many of which involve great amounts of heat and sharp objects---it's very important to properly illuminate your work surfaces. Pendant fixtures provide task lighting for your kitchen island, and under-cabinet puck lights illuminate your stove and counter tops. Also consider track or recessed lighting with flexible heads so you can refocus your light source as necessary.
  
  

Bathroom Task Lighting

• When you get ready in the morning, you rely on lighting to ensure that you leave the house looking pulled together. Task lights should illuminate your mirror and sink area to aid you in fixing your hair or doing your makeup. When you are in the shower, a dedicated recessed fixture prevents you from cutting yourself while shaving. Obviously, one overhead bathroom light is not enough. Be sure to select fixtures that can stand up to the moisture generated in the bathroom.
  
  

Considerations

• Consult a lighting designer to help you with your lighting scheme. He or she will determine the best type of task light that suits your needs and is the most energy-efficient. If you choose to select your fixtures on your own, visit your local home improvement store or shop online at sites such as ylighting.com or lightinguniverse.com. Depending on your decor, there are a wide variety of finishes and styles of task lighting. Choose from modern metal swing-arm lamps, colorful glass pendants, or antique piano desk lamps, among many other styles.