How to Choose the Right LED Warehouse Lights

Choosing the right LED Warehouse lights is crucial for establishing an optimal work environment, guaranteeing worker safety and improving productivity. The ideal lighting system not only provides illumination for the workspace but also effectively reduces energy expenses.

In this article, we will explore aspects that one should take into account when making an educated choice about LED warehouse lighting.

Requirements for LED Warehouse Lights

Determining the level of LED warehouse lights is crucial to creating a conducive working environment. Light intensity is measured in foot candles (FC), where one-foot candle equals one lumen per foot.

The specific foot candle requirements vary depending on the areas within a warehouse and the tasks performed.

In general warehouse spaces, the recommended range for foot candle requirements is between 20 to 30 fc. However, areas where intricate tasks are carried out may need levels of up to 200 fc to ensure visibility and precision. It’s important to note that these recommendations serve as guidelines, and actual lighting needs may differ based on circumstances and local regulations.

Here are some specific foot-candle recommendations for various industrial and commercial settings as per a Foot Candle Chart from LED Lighting Supply:

• General Work/Storage in Airplane Hangars: 30 FC
• Aircraft Maintenance with some detailed tasks: 30-50 FC
• Aircraft Maintenance with fine detailed tasks: 70-100 FC
• Work with limited detailed tasks in Garages/Workshops: 30-50 FC
• Work with fine-detailed tasks in Garages/Workshops: 70 FC
• Machine Shops with fine bench work: 200-500 fc​.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established foot candle standards for settings. 

• In warehouse areas, corridors and exit ways, the requirement is 5 foot candles. 
• For warehouses that handle large items, it is recommended to have around 10 lumens per foot for optimal lighting. 

The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) also offers guidelines on foot candle requirements to help determine the placement of lighting fixtures in order to achieve the levels of illumination for the space. 

Lighting plays a role in warehouse operations as it affects visibility, safety and efficiency. It is recommended to seek advice from lighting professionals when determining the foot candle requirements for your warehouse.

Factors such as the nature of tasks performed, the size of the space and local building and safety regulations should be taken into account.

Color Temperature

The temperature of light measured in Kelvin (K) plays a role in LED warehouse lighting as it directly impacts visibility, mood and productivity in the workspace. Here’s how different color temperatures affect lighting in warehouses:

1. Visibility and Productivity: To optimize visibility and productivity, it is recommended to use light with a color temperature ranging from 4000K to 5000K. This range reduces eye strain. Enhances productivity by producing a white light.
2. Efficiency: For areas where tasks are performed, cool white lighting within the 4000K – 5000K range is ideal. It promotes worker alertness and enhances efficiency.
3. Energy Efficiency: LEDs are more energy efficient than HIDs (High-Intensity Discharge) lights and offer a range of color temperatures ranging from 2700K to 6500K.
4. Ambient Lighting: To create a relaxed atmosphere, it is recommended to use warmer lighting within the range of 2700K to 3000K.
5. Safety: Maintaining proper visibility is crucial for safety in warehouses. Therefore, using light within the range of 4000K – 5000K is essential, as lower temperatures can impair visibility.
6. Circadian Rhythm: Choosing the color temperature helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. This promotes a healthy work environment for employees.

Key Takeaway: Consider the foot candle requirements, as they can differ based on the tasks performed in areas. Also, you should go for a color temperature range between 4000K and 5000K, as this will help improve visibility and productivity.

Mounting Height and Type of Mounting

When it comes to lighting up a warehouse with LED lights, the height of the ceiling is a factor to consider. If your ceiling is higher than 20 feet, bay lights are recommended, as they are designed to illuminate areas effectively.

On the other hand, if your ceiling is more than 20 feet, low bay lights would be more suitable for smaller spaces.

Learn more about How Commercial LED Lighting Transforms Retail Spaces

Type of Mounting:

• Surface Mounted Lights: These lights are directly attached to the ceiling. They are relatively easier to install and maintain. They work well in warehouses with ceilings or limited space.
• Suspended High Bay Lights: These lights hang from the ceiling and offer adjustability in terms of angle and coverage. They are perfect for warehouses that have ceilings and larger areas requiring lighting.

Choose the lighting solution based on your warehouse needs and ceiling height for optimal illumination efficiency.

Energy Efficiency 

Energy efficiency plays a role in ensuring the long-term cost-effectiveness of your lighting system. It is advisable to opt for LED high bay lights that have efficacy ratings measured in lumens per watt. A higher efficacy rating signifies that the light emits more brightness while consuming less energy, ultimately leading to reduced energy expenses.

Tips for Energy Efficiency:

• Look for LED lights with an efficacy rating of at least 130 lumens per watt.
• Consider installing motion sensors or timers to further reduce energy consumption.

Durability 

Durability is a factor to consider, especially when it comes to the potentially dangerous conditions of a warehouse. Having a fixture that is built to last will result in a long lifespan, meaning fewer replacements and less maintenance required.

Key Features for Durability:

• Robust Construction: The material used for the fixture should be robust enough to withstand physical impacts.
• Materials Resistant to Corrosion: Opt for fixtures made from materials like aluminum or stainless steel that can resist corrosion.
• High IP Rating: A high Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates that the light is resistant to dust and water, which enhances its durability.

Wattage and Lumens

To achieve the balance between the amount of light emitted and energy consumed, it’s important to understand the relationship between wattage and lumens. Wattage refers to the energy consumption of light, while lumens indicate the brightness it produces.

Balancing Wattage and Lumens:

When it comes to energy lighting, it’s ideal to have a high-lumen output with low wattage. For example, a 150-watt LED light emitting 20,000 lumens is more efficient than a 200-watt LED light that produces the same brightness.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to make a decision when selecting LED warehouse lights. This way, you can ensure they meet your needs while being cost-effective and energy-efficient.

LED Warehouse Lighting Layout Design 

To achieve consistent and even lighting, it is essential to plan the layout of your warehouse’s lighting. It is recommended to seek guidance from experts in the field of lighting design who can help you create a layout that fulfills the requirements of your warehouse. 

When selecting LED warehouse lights, there are factors to consider, such as lighting needs, color temperature, mounting height and mounting type. It is advisable to consult with lighting specialists to ensure that the chosen lights meet your warehouse requirements and are cost-effective and energy-efficient.

Check out some of our LED warehouse light projects here.