When it comes to parking lot lighting, there are several options available. One of the most popular choices in recent years has been LED lighting. LED, or Light Emitting Diode, technology has revolutionized the lighting industry with its numerous advantages. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of LED parking lot lighting and why it is a smart choice for both businesses and municipalities.
1. Energy Efficiency
LED parking lot lights are highly energy efficient, consuming significantly less electricity compared to traditional lighting options. On average, LED lights use 50-80% less energy, resulting in substantial cost savings over time. This energy efficiency not only reduces utility bills but also helps to lower carbon emissions, making LED parking lot lighting an environmentally friendly choice.
2. Long Lifespan
LED lights have an exceptionally long lifespan, lasting up to 100,000 hours or more. This is significantly longer than traditional lighting options such as metal halide or high-pressure sodium lights, which typically last around 15,000-20,000 hours. The extended lifespan of LED lights means fewer replacements and reduced maintenance costs for parking lot owners.
3. Durability
LED parking lot lights are built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. They are resistant to shock, vibrations, and extreme temperatures, making them highly durable and reliable. Unlike traditional lights, LED lights do not contain fragile filaments or glass components, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring consistent performance even in challenging environments.
4. Instant On/Off
LED lights provide instant illumination when switched on, eliminating the warm-up time required by traditional lighting options. This is particularly beneficial for parking lots where immediate visibility is crucial for safety and security. LED lights also do not experience frequent flickering or buzzing, providing a consistent and comfortable lighting experience for both pedestrians and drivers.
5. Directional Lighting
LED parking lot lights are designed to provide directional lighting, meaning they emit light in a specific direction without the need for reflectors or diffusers. This focused illumination reduces light pollution and ensures that the light is directed exactly where it is needed, improving visibility and reducing glare for drivers and pedestrians.
6. Flexibility and Control
LED parking lot lights offer flexibility and control over the lighting system. They can be easily dimmed or brightened according to specific needs, allowing for customized lighting levels at different times of the day or night. Additionally, LED lights can be integrated with smart lighting controls, enabling remote monitoring, scheduling, and energy management for enhanced efficiency and convenience.
7. Improved Safety and Security
LED parking lot lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing safety and security. The bright and uniform illumination provided by LED lights improves visibility, reducing the risk of accidents, slips, and falls. Additionally, well-lit parking lots deter criminal activities by eliminating dark areas and creating a sense of safety for both vehicle owners and pedestrians.
In conclusion, LED parking lot lighting offers numerous advantages over traditional lighting options. From energy efficiency and long lifespan to durability and improved safety, LED lights are a smart investment for any parking lot owner. By choosing LED lighting, businesses and municipalities can enjoy cost savings, environmental benefits, and enhanced visibility, making their parking lots safer and more inviting for everyone.
Effective outdoor security lighting in parking lots and other spaces can conserve electricity while improving safety. Motion sensor lighting, which activates upon detection of movement, can be more effective than continuous lighting. It saves energy, reduces light pollution and can draw attention to potential trespassers.
The most effective outdoor area lights can accomplish the following:
- Light walkways
- Reduce shadows
- Reveal tripping hazards
- Integrate motion sensor lighting
- Deter trespassers
- Limit light pollution
- Optimize energy use
Pro Tip: Position security lights out of reach to prevent tampering. Select light fixtures with protective screens or acrylic sheeting.
Most parking lots are lit for 13 or more hours a day on average. The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) of North America make these recommendations for the safest and most effective parking lot lights:
- For parking lots in typical conditions, the IES recommends minimum horizontal illuminance of 0.2 foot-candles, minimum vertical illuminance of 0.1 foot-candles and a uniformity ratio of 20:1 maximum to minimum.
- For enhanced security conditions, IES recommends minimum horizontal illuminance of 0.5 foot-candles, minimum vertical illuminance of 0.25 foot-candles and a uniformity ratio of 15:1 maximum to minimum.
One foot-candle is defined as enough light to saturate a one-foot square surface with one lumen of light. Horizontal illuminance falls on surfaces such as sidewalks, while vertical illuminance falls on surfaces such as the sides of buildings.
You can find lumens, power consumption and other specific product details when you shop on homedepot.com.