Ceiling lighting falls under the category of general lighting. Lights could be divided according to 3 broad classifications, the other two being task lighting and accent lighting. Particular kinds of ceiling lights can be made into task lighting if specifically created for such a job, but the main kind of illumination provided by light fixtures on the ceiling is that of downlighting, or the casting of light downward.

Illuminated ceilings may be considered a kind of ceiling light, particularly when found in otherwise dark nightclubs. Immensely popular more than 3 decades ago, they are very rarely employed nowadays, and almost never in a residential setting.

Ceiling lighting is really critical, and not just in the immediately obvious sense of providing illumination at home or at work. Light-sensitive individuals may be greatly disturbed by such things as the extremely subtle strobe-like effects associated with fluorescent lamps. In fact, there’s a whole field of inquiry that exists regarding the health effects of poorly developed lighting.

Particular types of photopollution that relate to ceiling lighting are light trespass, over-illumination, and glare. These are issues often present in densely populated residences and workplaces. Light trespass is one familiar to college dorm mates, where one is trying to sleep while the other has to study. Over-illumination is the excessive use of light. Several offices keep the lights on throughout the night for office cleaners, while during the day, even when there is bright sunshine, lights are left on anyway.

This causes a lot more oil to be used than necessary (in the generation of electricity), not to mention light trespass of nearby buildings. Recessed ceiling lights may perhaps also cause glare under specific conditions. But most ceiling lighting nowadays is made with ergonomic considerations in mind, particularly given the phenomenon of the “sick workplace” and “sick home.”