Lumens to Foot Candles Calculator

PHOTOMETRY, BEAM, COLOR & UNITS

Enter the light output and the area to find how many foot-candles (and lux) land on the surface. One foot-candle is one lumen per square foot.

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Foot-candles (fc)
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Lux
Foot-candles = lumens divided by area in square feet. Lux = foot-candles times 10.764.

How it works

Illuminance is light per unit area. Divide the total lumens reaching a surface by that surface area to get the average light level. Working in square feet gives foot-candles; square meters gives lux. The two units convert at 1 fc = 10.764 lux.

Delivered vs rated. Use the lumens that actually reach the surface. Fixture optics, mounting height, and light loss mean the delivered figure is lower than the lamp's rated output.

See the Foot Candle Formula and the Recommended Foot Candle Levels.

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The calculators and tools on Formula Factory are provided for general guidance and informational purposes only. Results are estimates based on standard formulas and the values you enter — they do not constitute professional engineering, electrical, or architectural advice. Always verify calculations with a qualified professional before making decisions for any safety-critical, code-compliance, or commercial application. Formula Factory makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of any result, and accepts no liability for errors, omissions, or any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.