When lighting up a large space like a warehouse, gymnasium, or industrial facility, high bay lighting is essential. But one of the most common questions is: How many lumens do I need? The answer depends on several factors, including ceiling height, type of work being done, and the desired brightness level. In this blog, we’ll break it all down and provide some helpful tips to ensure your space is well-lit and efficient.
Understanding Lumens in High Bay Lighting
Lumens measure the total amount of visible light a fixture emits. Unlike watts, which measure energy consumption, lumens tell you how bright a light source will be. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light.
For high bay lighting, here’s a general guideline based on ceiling height:
-
10-15 feet ceiling: 10,000 - 15,000 lumens
-
15-20 feet ceiling: 16,000 - 20,000 lumens
-
20-30 feet ceiling: 21,000 - 35,000 lumens
-
30+ feet ceiling: 36,000+ lumens
The type of space also plays a role. If you need lighting for an office within a warehouse, you may require a lower lumen count than an assembly line that demands precision work.
Tips for Choosing the Right High Bay Lights
-
Consider LED Over Other Options
LED high bay lights are energy-efficient, last longer, and provide better brightness than traditional HID or fluorescent options. -
Check the Beam Angle
A narrow beam (e.g., 60°) is better for higher ceilings, while a wider beam (e.g., 120°) works well for lower heights. -
Use Reflectors for Enhanced Lighting
Aluminum or prismatic reflectors help distribute light efficiently, especially in spaces with high ceilings. -
Install Motion Sensors
If your facility has low-traffic areas, using motion sensors can help save on energy costs by turning lights off when not in use. -
Consider Color Temperature
A color temperature of 4000K-5000K is ideal for workspaces, providing bright, natural daylight-like illumination. -
Calculate Spacing Properly
Avoid over-lighting or under-lighting by spacing fixtures evenly. As a rule of thumb:-
15-ft ceiling: Space lights 10-15 feet apart
-
20-ft ceiling: Space lights 15-20 feet apart
-
30-ft ceiling: Space lights 25-30 feet apart
-
FAQs About High Bay Lighting
Q: What is the best type of lighting for a warehouse?
A: LED high bay lights are the best choice due to their efficiency, durability, and brightness.
Q: How do I know if my space is too bright or too dim?
A: You can measure the brightness in lux (lumens per square meter). General warehouse lighting should be 200-300 lux, while detailed work areas need 500+ lux.
Q: Can I replace metal halide lights with LED high bay lights?
A: Yes! LED high bay lights provide better brightness with lower energy consumption and longer lifespan.
Q: How long do LED high bay lights last?
A: LED high bay lights typically last 50,000+ hours, much longer than traditional lighting options.
By choosing the right lumens and lighting setup, you can create a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective environment. If you need help selecting the best High Bay LED Lights for your space, feel free to reach out to a lighting expert!
